Wisconsin girl who stabbed classmate to please ‘Slender Man’ requests third release from mental institution

In a chilling reminder of the dark and twisted world of internet horror, Morgan Geyser, now 22 years old, has filed a petition with Waukesha County Circuit Judge Michael Bohren seeking her release from the Winnebago Mental Health Institute. This is her third attempt at freedom, and it marks a significant milestone in a case that has captivated the nation with its blend of psychological intrigue and brutal violence.

The Incident

On a fateful night in May 2014, Geyser and her friend Anissa Weier, both just 12 years old at the time, lured Payton Leutner to a wooded area in Waukesha following a sleepover. The incident was a shocking act of violence that left Leutner with 19 stab wounds, and it was all allegedly done to appease the fictional character Slender Man, a figure from internet folklore known for his tall, imposing stature and faceless appearance.

The Aftermath

The girls' actions were met with swift and severe consequences. Both Geyser and Weier were charged as adults with attempted first-degree intentional homicide. In a bizarre twist, they claimed they were trying to earn the right to be servants of Slender Man, fearing that he would harm their families if they didn't carry out the attack.

Legal Proceedings

The case unfolded over several years, with legal proceedings becoming increasingly complex. In 2015, Geyser was found incompetent to stand trial, suspending the prosecution of charges against her. However, by December of that year, Bohren ruled that both girls could understand the charges against them and aid in their own defense.

In 2016, Weier pleaded not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect, while Geyser entered a plea of not guilty by reason of mental disease. It wasn't until August 2017 that Weier pleaded guilty to attempted second-degree homicide, paving the way for her eventual release in September 2021. She was granted conditional release to live with her father and required to wear a GPS monitor.

Mental Health and Treatment

Geyser, on the other hand, has been a more challenging case. Initially diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorder, she has been undergoing extensive treatment at the Winnebago Mental Health Institute since 2018. Despite significant progress, her condition remains a concern. Dr. Deborah Collins, one of the psychologists who has evaluated Geyser, testified that she suffers from unspecified schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and social anxiety disorder.

Geyser has also acknowledged being sexually abused at the age of 11, which has been cited as a contributing factor to her mental health issues. Her attempts to end her life while in custody underscore the depth of her psychological distress.

Request for Conditional Release

This latest petition marks Geyser's third attempt at conditional release. Her previous petitions were withdrawn after she failed to meet the necessary criteria for release. The current petition simply cites state laws requiring the appointment of an expert to examine her and produce a report within 30 days. The judge has set a hearing for November 1, following the receipt of this report.

Public Concerns and Risks

Judge Michael Bohren has consistently expressed concerns about the potential risks associated with Geyser's release. The denial of her second petition in April this year emphasized these concerns, highlighting the need for continued treatment and protection for both Geyser and the public.

Conclusion

Morgan Geyser's request for release is a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges surrounding mental health cases. While her actions were a heinous crime, they also highlight the need for comprehensive treatment and support. As Geyser navigates this latest chapter in her journey, one thing is clear: her case is far from over, and the outcome will be closely watched by both the public and the legal community.

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