A former Binghamton University student who was beaten into a coma is showing signs of recovery.

In New York City, Bryan Steinhauer's parents gave an update on his condition.

And as Action News reporter Gabe Osterhout reports, the did so with a specific purpose.

22 year old Bryan Steinhauer's condition is improving.

In May, the Binghamton University senior was beaten into a coma at the Rathskeller Bar in Binghamton.

"It's extremely difficult to see my son in a hospital bed. Luckily, he has a lot of friends," says Steinhauer's mother.

Steinhauer's parents say he's semi-conscious now, but still can't speak.

"He doesn't have full consciousness, he's kind of sleep walking in a way so he does respond. He knows who we are, he knows who is friends are. He recognizes them," says Steinhauer's father.

Three men have been charged in the assault, including former Binghamton University basketball player Miladin Kovacevic.

Kovacevic is in Serbia.

He fled there with the help of the Serb consulate after posting bail.

The Steinhauers say Kovacevic should return to the United States to face the charges.

"We're confident that if the true facts were known, the people of Serbia would be in favor of his return. We believe truth and justice will ultimately prevail in this case," says Steinhauer.

In published reports, the Kovacevic family has said Bryan Steinhauer is fine, and the US media is exaggerating his condition.

Senator Charles Schumer says Richard and Marlene spoke out to set the record straight about their son's condition.

Gabe Osterhout, WBNG-TV Action News.

Senator Charles Schumer says the State Department continues to work with Serbia to bring Kovacevic home.

He says if that effort is not successful, he will go to Congress and ask to cut 60 million dollars in aid to Serbia.

And, he will try to close down the process of offering visas to Serbian nationals.