The case of Morgan Geyser remains one of the most disturbing and widely publicized juvenile crime stories of the 2010s in the United States. This article breaks down the key events, background, and aftermath surrounding the infamous Slender Man stabbing case.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to the Case
- The Crime: What Happened?
- Motive and Psychological Background
- Legal Proceedings and Mental Health Considerations
- Recent Developments and Release
Introduction to the Case
In May 2014, two 12-year-old girls, Morgan Geyser and Anissa Weier, lured their friend Payton Leutner into the woods in Waukesha, Wisconsin. This act shook the nation due to its violent nature and connection to an internet urban legend known as Slender Man.
Slender Man is a fictional character that became a viral sensation online. Morgan and Anissa claimed they believed they needed to commit the attack to appease or serve this imagined figure.
The Crime: What Happened?
Following a birthday sleepover, Geyser and Weier convinced Payton Leutner, also 12 years old, to walk with them into a remote wooded area. Morgan Geyser then stabbed Payton 19 times. Miraculously, despite her severe injuries, Payton managed to crawl out of the woods and seek help, ultimately surviving the attack.
“She made it seem necessary, and I figured that if it was necessary, then I would,” Morgan said when explaining how the plan unfolded.
This brutal stabbing was carefully planned but kept secret for months. Morgan later explained that Anissa was the mastermind behind the plot, yet Morgan agreed, driven partly by the belief in Slender Man.
Motive and Psychological Background
The two girls told authorities that their goal was to become proxies or servants of Slender Man. This fictional entity was portrayed as a powerful, faceless figure who demands loyalty and obedience, which warped the girls’ perception of reality.
After Morgan was taken into custody, she was diagnosed with early-onset schizophrenia. Her father reportedly had suffered a similar mental illness during his youth, which may have contributed to her condition.
The diagnosis of schizophrenia and the influence of internet mythology created a complex backdrop to the crime. This case raised crucial questions about the role of mental health and internet influence on vulnerable youth.
Legal Proceedings and Mental Health Considerations
Initially, Morgan pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. As her case progressed, the court considered her mental health diagnosis seriously.
In September 2017, she took a plea deal where she pleaded guilty but was not held criminally responsible. Instead, she was committed to a psychiatric facility for treatment.
Judge Michael Bohren ordered a commitment for a maximum of 40 years, but her release would depend on her progress and evaluation by mental health professionals.
Recent Developments and Release
After spending more than a decade in a state mental hospital, Morgan Geyser was granted release in July 2025. This decision was based on her treatment progress and evaluations indicating improvement or management of her condition.
Following her release, authorities briefly issued alerts concerning her whereabouts after she was reported missing. She was later found safely near Illinois, ending concerns about her escape.
Key Takeaways
- Morgan Geyser was only 12 years old during the attack, highlighting the young age involved in this tragic event.
- The crime was influenced heavily by internet mythology and distorted teenage perceptions.
- Mental illness, particularly schizophrenia, played a significant role in understanding Morgan’s actions and her legal treatment.
- The legal system balanced juvenile justice with mental health by committing Morgan to psychiatric care instead of incarceration.
- Her recent release in 2025 marks a significant phase in the long-lasting impact and progression of the case.