Memphian Wants Release from Mental Health Facility

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - A Memphis man who killed his mother 26 years ago is seeking his release from a mental health facility.

A court hearing is set for Sept. 23 to determine whether Charles Turner Harrison is no longer a threat to himself or others.

Harrison shot his mother, 65-year-old Frances Harrison, in the head in January 1984 in their home. He was found not guilty by reason of insanity.

Memphis reports say that state doctors say he's now ready to begin furloughs to a residential facility in Nashville.

But state prosecutor Thomas Henderson and relatives of Harrison oppose the move.

Harrison also was on a Secret Service watch list for threatening to "waste" Pope John Paul II and sending Nancy Reagan threatening notes.