A Wisconsin woman, Morgan Geyser, is set to be released from a psychiatric hospital after spending seven years in treatment. In a recent court decision, a judge supported her release, despite concerns raised by state health officials.
Geyser has been at the Winnebago Mental Health Institute since 2018, following an incident where she and a friend lured another girl, Payton Leutner, into a park and attacked her. The girls were influenced by the fictional character Slender Man. Geyser pleaded guilty to attempted homicide but claimed mental illness played a role in her actions at the time.
The judge noted that the state’s request to keep Geyser committed lacked sufficient evidence. Health officials had expressed concerns about Geyser’s recent interests, which included a novel that touches on dark themes and communication with a memorabilia collector. However, Geyser’s attorney argued that she has been honest with her treatment team and has not engaged in harmful behavior.
Geyser’s treatment team, comprising three psychologists, reiterated that she does not pose a threat to the public. They concluded that she has shown significant improvement during her time in the hospital. The judge agreed, stating he didn’t see any increased risk in allowing her to leave.
This ruling marks a significant step for Geyser. Her case raises important questions about mental health treatment, accountability, and the challenges faced by young individuals with serious mental health issues. Geyser is expected to have a hearing regarding her release plans on March 21.
In contrast, Anissa Weier, Geyser’s accomplice, was released in 2021 under specific conditions after serving time for her involvement in the same incident. Both cases highlight the complexities of juvenile justice and mental health treatment.
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Wisconsin, Payton Leutner, Homicide, General news, WI State Wire, Anissa Weier, Tony Cotton, Morgan Geyser, Michael Bohren, Abbey Nickolie, Crime, U.S. news
