Morgan Geyser Files Third Request for Release from Psychiatric Hospital After Slender Man Incident

A Wisconsin woman, Morgan Geyser, is once again seeking release from a psychiatric hospital. Now 22, Geyser has filed a petition with Waukesha County Circuit Judge Michael Bohren for her release from Winnebago Mental Health Institute. This marks her third attempt in two years to leave the facility. Her first request was withdrawn in 2022, and her second was denied in April due to public safety concerns.

In 2014, Geyser and Anissa Weier, both aged 12 at the time, lured their classmate Payton Leutner to a park in Waukesha after a sleepover. Geyser stabbed Leutner 19 times while Weier encouraged her. Leutner survived the attack. The girls later explained they wanted to become servants of the fictional character Slender Man and feared harm to their families if they did not comply.

Legal Proceedings and Mental Health

Geyser pleaded guilty to attempted first-degree intentional homicide and was committed to a psychiatric facility due to mental illness. Weier also pleaded guilty but to attempted second-degree intentional homicide. She was released in 2021 under conditions, including living with her father and wearing a GPS monitor.

Judge Bohren previously denied Geyser's release, citing ongoing risks she might pose to the public. Her attorney, Anthony Cotton, did not respond to requests for comments on Friday morning regarding the latest petition. The case continues to draw attention due to its unusual circumstances involving a fictional horror character.

The incident has raised questions about mental health treatment and legal responsibility for minors involved in serious crimes. Both girls were diagnosed with mental health issues that influenced their actions. The court must balance these factors with public safety when considering Geyser's release.

Geyser's repeated petitions highlight the complexities of cases involving mental illness and criminal acts committed by young individuals. The legal system must carefully evaluate such cases to ensure justice and safety for all parties involved.