CT Man Accused of Cannibalism and Murder Granted Conditional Release
Conditional Release Granted After Careful Review of Clinical Progress
A man accused of cannibalism and murder, Tyree Smith, has been granted conditional release by the Connecticut Psychiatric Security Review Board (PSRB). The decision comes after a careful review of his clinical progress, officials said.
Accused of Hacking Man to Death and Eating Body Parts
Smith is accused of hacking a man to death with an axe in Bridgeport and eating part of the victim’s brain and an eyeball. He is currently being held at the Connecticut Valley Hospital in Middletown.
PSRB Cites Long-term Stability and Engagement in Treatment
The PSRB said Smith has demonstrated long-term stability, remained engaged in all recommended treatments, and consistently followed his care plan. As a result, the board granted his conditional release, requiring him to remain under structured supervision and continue to receive necessary mental health services.
Conditional Release Includes Structured Supervision and Treatment
Before being granted conditional release, a person is first placed on temporary leave status. This means they are still confined to the hospital but have privileges that generally start with daytime passes to receive treatment in the community, including overnight stays and weekly check-ins at the hospital.
Rehabilitation, Not Punishment, is Goal of PSRB
“Rehabilitation, not punishment, is the goal for all individuals found Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (NGRI,” the PSRB said in a statement.
State GOP Leaders Express Outrage and Concern
However, state GOP leaders expressed outrage and concern over the decision. “This is outrageous and mind-boggling,” said senators Heather Somers, Paul Cicarella, Henri Martin, and Stephen Harding. “His victim’s family raised objections about his release. What about THEM? Where is the justice for THEM?”
Families of Victims and Public Safety at Risk, Say GOP Leaders
“This terrible decision puts public safety in jeopardy and is yet another terrible message to send to CT violent crime victims and their families,” the statement continued. “This person should never be out. We are dumbfounded at this injustice. In what universe is this OK?”
FAQs
* What is the Connecticut Psychiatric Security Review Board (PSRB)?
The PSRB is responsible for reviewing the mental health and treatment progress of individuals found Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (NGRI).
* What are the conditions of Tyree Smith’s conditional release?
Smith’s conditional release requires him to remain under structured supervision and continue to receive necessary mental health services.
* How does the PSRB determine whether an individual is ready for release?
The PSRB reviews an individual’s clinical progress, including their engagement in treatment and stability, to determine whether they are ready for release.
