Morgan Geyser, the Wisconsin woman who infamously attempted to kill her 12-year-old classmate to please the fictional character “Slender Man,” is set to be released from a mental health institute despite concerns raised by the state regarding her behavior. The decision was made by a judge, who rejected a petition from the State Department of Health Services to keep Geyser in custody.

Geyser, now 22, had previously pleaded guilty to attempted first-degree intentional homicide in the violent stabbing of Payton Leutner but was found not guilty by reason of mental defect due to her mental illness. She and her friend, Anissa Weier, lured Leutner into a wooded park during a sleepover in 2014, where Geyser stabbed her 19 times. Leutner miraculously survived the attack.

Geyser has been in custody at the Winnebago Mental Health Institute for the past seven years, initially sentenced to 40 years in the psychiatric hospital with the opportunity to request conditional release every six months. Despite objections from the state, the judge decided that Geyser was no longer a danger to society and could continue with her planned conditional release.

The state had raised concerns about Geyser’s relationship with a murder memorabilia collector and her interest in violent books. However, her defense team refuted these claims, stating that Geyser’s care team was aware of the collector’s visits and that she only read books approved by her therapy team. They also mentioned that Geyser ended the relationship with the collector once she found out he was selling items she sent him.

While Geyser’s interest in violent topics raised red flags for prosecutors, experts explain that some individuals may gravitate towards such materials as a way to indulge in morbid curiosity in a controlled manner. Despite the concerns, the judge ultimately determined that Geyser was no longer a danger to society and could be released.

Geyser’s next court appearance is scheduled for April 28, according to court documents. Meanwhile, her accomplice, Anissa Weier, was sentenced to 25 years in a mental hospital and was released in 2021 on the condition that she must live with her father and wear a GPS monitor.

The case of Morgan Geyser and Anissa Weier continues to raise questions about the intersection of mental illness, criminal behavior, and rehabilitation. As Geyser prepares for her release, the focus shifts to ensuring the safety of both the community and the victims of the heinous crime committed in the name of a fictional character.

Is it Ethical to Sentence a 12-Year-Old to Life in Prison?

When it comes to the justice system, there are many controversial cases that raise questions about ethics and morality. One such case is that of a 12-year-old being sentenced to life in prison. While it is true that some crimes committed by juveniles can be heinous, is it fair to essentially lock up a child for the rest of their life?

There are many arguments on both sides of this issue. Some believe that if a child is old enough to commit a serious crime, they should be held accountable for their actions. Others argue that children are still developing mentally and emotionally, and should not be punished in the same way as adults.

One key point to consider is the impact that a life sentence can have on a child. Spending the rest of their life behind bars can have serious consequences on their mental health and overall well-being. They may not have the same opportunities for rehabilitation and growth that they would have if they were given a second chance.

On the other hand, some may argue that there are cases where a child’s actions are so egregious that they warrant a life sentence. In these cases, the safety of society must also be taken into account, and it may be necessary to keep a dangerous individual off the streets.

But, at the end of the day, it’s highly unusual to essentially lock up a 12-year-old for life. The justice system must consider the unique circumstances of each case and weigh the potential for rehabilitation and growth against the need for punishment and protection of society.

Ultimately, the decision to sentence a child to life in prison is a complex and difficult one. It is important for lawmakers and judges to carefully consider all factors involved and make decisions that are fair and just for all parties involved.