Court sketches of John Hinckley go to auction after release from mental hospital

In 1981, John Hinckley attempted to assassinate United States President Ronald Reagan outside the Washington Hilton on March 30. He claimed to have done so in an effort to impress actress Jodie Foster, whom he was obsessed with. Following his trial, which concluded with a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity, Hinckley was committed to St. Elizabeths Psychiatric Hospital in Washington, D.C. After being under institutional care for many years, Hinckley was released on September 10, 2016. His release became unconditional in 2022, allowing him greater freedom in society. As time passed post-release, Hinckley sought to explore a new direction in his life, venturing into a musical career, although reports indicate that he has struggled to find success in this endeavor. Meanwhile, the historical significance of the events surrounding his actions continued to captivate public interest. Recently, a collection of pastels depicting Hinckley during his trial, created by artist Freda Reiter, have surfaced for auction. The auction, conducted by Alexander Historical Auctions, features a total of 28 sketches, including 22 full sketches and six partial studies. Among these sketches are images of Hinckley in various emotional states, including one where he is sobbing in his room at St. Elizabeths, and another where he is shown covering his face, leaving only his eyes visible. As these court sketches, which were previously televised during the trial, garner attention, they serve as tangible relics of a significant moment in Reagan's presidency and American history. The auction is projected to attract bids totaling up to $6,000, a considerable amount for items associated with such a historically significant figure. The sketches being auctioned off elicited reflections on both the shocking act of violence that targeted President Reagan and the subsequent legal and mental health challenges that Hinckley faced. The event serves as a reminder of the complex narratives surrounding mental illness, legal accountability, and the impact of obsession on individuals and society. As the sketches go up for bid, they offer a glimpse into both the courtroom drama of the 1980s and the still-relevant conversation about the intersections of fame, obsession, and the consequences of violent behavior, further sparking public discourse surrounding these longstanding issues.