The murder trial of Connor Hilton is moving forward with new developments, as a judge recently ruled against a key defense argument. Hilton is accused of the 2023 shooting in Friendswood that killed one friend and left another seriously injured.
Defense Argument Struck Down
Hilton’s lawyers had planned to argue that his actions were the result of a drug-induced psychosis caused by the acne medication Accutane. However, the judge decided this theory cannot be used to determine guilt.
Hilton, who faces charges of murder and aggravated assault, had reportedly been taking Accutane since July 2022. His attorney, Rick DeToto, claimed Hilton took more than his prescribed dose on the day of the shooting, which triggered a psychotic episode.
Expert Testimony in Question
Psychologist Dr. James Douglas Bremner testified that Hilton’s behavior was altered by Accutane, stating that the medication left him in a psychotic state where he could not control his actions.
But prosecutors challenged the claim, questioning whether there was enough evidence to directly link the drug to Hilton’s state of mind during the shooting.
FDA Warning About Accutane
The Food and Drug Administration has noted that Accutane can sometimes cause side effects such as mood swings, depression, and in rare cases, suicidal or even homicidal thoughts. Still, such reactions are considered uncommon, making Hilton’s defense harder to prove in court.
Appeal and Sentencing Possibilities
While the judge’s ruling was a setback for Hilton’s defense, attorney DeToto said the decision could become grounds for an appeal if Hilton is convicted. Even though the psychosis defense is barred from the trial’s guilt phase, DeToto believes it could still be used during sentencing to seek a lighter punishment.
“It should be admissible in mitigation,” he explained, suggesting the drug’s side effects may still influence how Hilton is sentenced if found guilty.
Trial Date Approaching
Hilton’s trial is scheduled to begin on September 8. The case continues to attract attention because of the rare claim that an acne medication may have played a role in a violent crime. Whether or not the argument about Accutane will carry weight in future appeals or sentencing remains uncertain as the proceedings move forward.
The Connor Hilton case highlights the difficult balance between medical side effects and personal responsibility in criminal law. While the court has rejected the defense’s attempt to link Hilton’s actions to Accutane-induced psychosis, the issue may resurface later in sentencing or appeal.
For now, Hilton faces trial on murder and assault charges, with the jury set to weigh the evidence when proceedings begin in September.
