The competency hearing was held in San Diego, California where Loughner’s legal team is based. Loughner himself did not attend.
US District Judge Larry Burns said that, according to the report by psychologist Dr Christina Pietz, Loughner has begun attending group therapy sessions, and is pacing less in his cell.
He also seems more aware than before of his surroundings, is maintaining better eye contact, and his overall level of co-operation has “greatly improved.”
The judge said: “That, in and of itself, is an indication of some progress.” But he said Dr Pietz “remains convinced that he’s not there yet.”
He ordered that Loughner continue to be treated and set another hearing for June 25.
The judge said, if there was not further measurable progress in the next four months, he would consider indefinitely committing Loughner to a psychiatric hospital.
Miss Giffords, 41, a Democrat who had been seen as a rising star in her party, resigned last month to focus on her remarkable recovery.
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