A Connecticut man who was found not guilty by reason of insanity for killing a victim with a hatchet and eating a part of his brain was granted conditional release from the state’s only maximum-security psychiatric hospital, despite concerns expressed by the victim’s family.
Tyree Smith was ordered confined to Whiting Forensic Hospital for 60 years in 2013 in connection with the killing of Angel Gonzalez, whose mutilated body was found in a vacant apartment in Bridgeport in January 2012 a month after he was hacked to death. Smith’s cousin had testified that Smith told her he ate part of Gonzalez’s brain and an eyeball while drinking sake
The board’s decision to grant conditional release was based on the psychiatrist’s evaluation of Smith’s current mental state. The strict conditions of the release aim to ensure Smith continues to receive necessary treatment and supervision. Smith’s extended stay at a community facility prior to the release demonstrated his ability to function in a structured environment. Gonzalez’s family expressed concerns about Smith potentially concealing any signs of mental illness. The transition to a community setting will require ongoing monitoring to support Smith’s well-being.