Tyree Smith, a Connecticut man accused of murdering a victim with an axe and consuming parts of his body, has been granted conditional release by the Connecticut Psychiatric Security Review Board (PSRB).
Smith was found Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (NGRI) after the brutal 2011 killing in Bridgeport, where he allegedly ate portions of the victim’s brain and an eyeball. He has since been confined to Connecticut Valley Hospital in Middletown, undergoing psychiatric treatment.
According to the PSRB, Smith has shown long-term stability, adhered to his treatment plan, and remains engaged in mental health care. Under the terms of his conditional release, he will continue to be closely monitored and must comply with structured supervision while receiving necessary mental health services.
How the Release Process Works
Before full conditional release, individuals found NGRI must first go through a temporary leave period, where they:
- Remain confined but gain limited privileges
- Receive daytime passes for treatment in the community
- Participate in weekly check-ins at the hospital
- Have overnight stays under supervision
Public Outrage and Political Backlash
The decision has drawn strong criticism, particularly from Connecticut GOP leaders, who called it “outrageous and mind-boggling.”
In a joint statement, State Senators Heather Somers, Paul Cicarella, Henri Martin, and Stephen Harding questioned:
“His victim’s family raised objections about his release. What about THEM? Where is the justice for THEM?”
The case has reignited debates on public safety vs. rehabilitation for individuals found NGRI in violent crimes. Many argue that despite psychiatric progress, Smith’s release poses a potential risk to the community.
