During a court hearing on Wednesday, two psychologists testified that a Wisconsin woman, who at the age of 12, stabbed a sixth-grade classmate almost to death in an attempt to please the online horror character Slender Man, should not be released from a psychiatric hospital. The woman, now 19, had been committed to a mental health facility after the 2014 incident in which she and a friend lured the victim into the woods and stabbed her 19 times. The psychologists argued that the woman still poses a danger to herself and others and requires further treatment before being released back into the community.
The psychologists stated that the woman continues to struggle with mental health issues and has not made enough progress in her treatment to be safely reintegrated into society. They highlighted her history of hallucinations, delusions, and self-harm as reasons for their recommendation to keep her in the psychiatric hospital. The woman’s attorneys argued that she has shown significant improvement during her time in treatment and should be given the opportunity to transition to a less restrictive setting. However, the psychologists emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety of the community and the woman herself, stating that releasing her at this time would be premature.
The woman’s case gained national attention due to the bizarre nature of the crime, in which she and her friend claimed they were trying to impress Slender Man, a fictional online character known for his sinister and supernatural abilities. The incident sparked debates about the influence of internet culture on young people and raised questions about the mental health of the perpetrators. The psychologists acknowledged the unique circumstances of the case but emphasized that the woman’s underlying mental health issues must be addressed before she can be considered for release.
The victim of the attack, who survived the brutal stabbing, has since recovered physically but continues to deal with the emotional trauma of the incident. Her family expressed concerns about the potential release of the woman, fearing for their safety and the safety of the community. The psychologists took these concerns into consideration when making their recommendation, emphasizing the need to prioritize the well-being of the victim and prevent any further harm from occurring.
The judge overseeing the case will ultimately make the decision on whether the woman should be released from the psychiatric hospital. The testimony of the psychologists will play a crucial role in the judge’s decision, as they provide expert opinions on the woman’s mental health and risk of reoffending. The case serves as a reminder of the complex and challenging nature of addressing mental health issues within the criminal justice system, and the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
