Morgan Geyser, a central figure in the infamous Slender Man stabbing case, has undergone a complex and lengthy process of hospitalization and rehabilitation due to her mental health diagnosis. This article carefully explores her path from the initial incident to her ongoing treatment and supervised release plans.
Table of Contents
- Background of the Incident and Legal Outcome
- Mental Health Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
- Hospitalization and Long-Term Commitment
- Rehabilitation Progress and Treatment Details
- The Process Toward Possible Release
1. Background of the Incident and Legal Outcome
In 2014, Morgan Geyser was involved in a highly publicized assault case linked to the fictional horror character Slender Man.
She, along with Anissa Weier, was charged with first-degree attempted intentional homicide in adult court. Despite the severity of the attack, the victim survived.
However, Geyser was ultimately found not guilty by reason of mental illness, leading to her being committed to a psychiatric facility instead of prison.
2. Mental Health Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
Upon entering the legal proceedings, Geyser was diagnosed with early-onset schizophrenia, a serious mental illness characterized by auditory hallucinations and delusions.
Experts indicated a possible hereditary link, noting that Geyser’s father had also suffered from similar psychiatric issues during his adolescence.
The diagnosis was crucial in determining her plea of not guilty by reason of mental illness, which shaped her path moving forward in treatment rather than incarceration.
3. Hospitalization and Long-Term Commitment
Following her diagnosis, a judge approved Morgan Geyser’s transfer to a state mental hospital to receive specialized treatment.
Initially held in a juvenile detention center, she then spent approximately 18 months in a secure psychiatric facility focused on managing schizophrenia.
The court mandated up to 40 years of mental health treatment and supervision, reflecting the seriousness of her condition and the need for long-term care.
Her treatment included antipsychotic medication, which reportedly helped reduce hallucinations involving the Slender Man and other imaginary figures.
4. Rehabilitation Progress and Treatment Details
Over the years, Geyser’s condition has shown signs of improvement. Psychologists have noted that she has been successfully weaned off antipsychotic medication and is no longer exhibiting active psychotic symptoms.
Despite this progress, she continues to experience symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and autism spectrum conditions.
Her rehabilitation plan has also addressed practical skills and social reintegration, with Geyser expressing goals such as becoming a librarian and potentially working as a therapist specialized in addiction recovery.
Her treatment team emphasizes cautious optimism, recognizing her potential while understanding the need for ongoing supervision and support.
5. The Process Toward Possible Release
Morgan Geyser has petitioned for release from the mental health facility multiple times but her requests have been repeatedly denied due to concerns about public safety and her readiness.
When released, she would be expected to live in a group home under strict supervision, including wearing an ankle monitor to ensure compliance with release conditions.
Professionals testify that Geyser maintains realistic understanding of life outside the hospital and is prepared to accept employment and housing arrangements offered.
“Morgan Geyser has a lot of potential to reintegrate back into society,” said a clinical witness, noting her ongoing rehabilitation efforts and goal setting.
Additional Notes
- Her hospitalization highlights the intersection between criminal justice and mental health treatment in complex cases.
- The lengthy commitment is intended not as punishment but to provide continuous care and reduce risk to both Geyser and the community.
- Her journey underscores the challenges faced by individuals with severe mental illness who come into conflict with law enforcement.