Tree of Life gunman was dismayed not to have inspired more attacks on Jews, court hears

Addressing a Pittsburgh court on Friday, Corvin said it was a delusion brought on by psychosis. 

He went on to say that Bowers expresses delusional beliefs about Jews "disgustingly” and that he was incapable of remorse. He stressed that Bowers should be on anti-psychotic medication.

Corvin testified: "Bowers has a belief that we're at the end of a war that's been going on for thousands of years”.

He added: “He still envisions what he did as an unfortunate act of violence at the direction of God - that it will save lives. 

“He believes he's a tool for God. I know it sounds absurd. It's psychotic. This is the result of a mental illness."

“Did he tell you he likes hearing the evidence?” US Attorney Eric Olshan asked him.

“Yes,” Corvin said. “I think he likes hearing the evidence so he knows other people can hear the evidence.”

Corvin went on to explain that Bowers wanted others to emulate him and was disappointed that his mass killing still stands as the worst attack on Jews in US history.

“He hoped the act would bring attention to what he, quote, ‘knows,’ so more people would be inspired to protect God’s kingdom,” Corvin said.

Corvin was one of several defence experts who diagnosed Bowers with schizophrenia, a serious brain disorder whose symptoms include delusions and hallucinations. 

However, a neurologist testifying for the prosecution disputed that Bowers has schizophrenia, saying Bowers has a personality disorder but is not delusional, and that mental illness did not appear to play a role in the attack. 

The trial continues this week with closing arguments and jury deliberations.