There is speculation, however, that Mr Hunter may have led it towards its decision because he believed he would not be successful if the trial went before a regular jury.

ECONOMIST: Murder inquiries

One patient, who lives an hour and a half away from the medical centre running the trial, has had regular adjustments to her medication and treatment as a result of her transmissions back to her doctor's office.

BBC: Telephone heart sensor under test

Padilla, after more lingering in the courts, was suddenly pulled out of military custody and put on trial in a federal court on regular criminal charges.

NPR: Slate's Jurisprudence: High Court Dodges Padilla