The Slender Man stabbing

⚠️ WARNING: This episode contains very disturbing and violent material involving children. Viewer and listener discretion is advised.In this episode of Wyrd Wessex, the Wyrdo's cover one of the most harrowing cases they have ever discussed: the 2014 Slender Man stabbing. Join Craig and Andy as they take a deep, serious look at the tragic events, the powerful internet obsession, and the complex factors of mental illness that led two 12-year-old individuals to stab their friend, Peyton Leutner, 19 times.Dahmer, the Diagnosis, and Withholding TreatmentWe look at the devastating, untreated state of Morgan's mental health, covering the ethical controversy of withholding crucial schizophrenia medication, even as his condition deteriorated into bizarre public tirades. Experts like Dr. Kenneth Robbins, who interviewed serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, weigh in, stating that Morgan was not a murderer—he was sanewhen he committed the crime. We detail the determined legal battle for a "reverse waiver" to secure psychiatric treatment, which led to a remarkable transformation and the onset of profound remorse once medication was finally administered.NGRI: The Verdict and The ConsequencesWe analyse the culmination of the four-year legal battle, where both Morgan and Anissa were found Not Guilty by Reason of Mental Disease or Defect (NGRI). We detail the final sentences: Anissa's 25-year commitment and Morgan's 40-year commitment to a mental health institution. We look at the complexities of the subsequent release hearings, covering Anissa's conditional release and the controversy surrounding Morgan's proposed placement—a difficult decision involving his continued need for care, and the safety of the victim, Peyton.Peyton's Resilience and the Systemic FailureMost importantly, we honour the strength and resilience of Peyton Leutner (who now prefers the name Payton). We discuss her life as a high school graduate and a college scholarship recipient, and her powerful statement that she would "thank" Morgan for giving her the life she has now. Finally, we dissect the systemic failures: the overlooked schizophrenia, the dismissed cries for help, the abuse allegations, and the need for better support structures for children grappling with complex internal struggles.Further Reading & InformationFor a more comprehensive look at this case, we highly recommend the book Slenderman by Kathleen Hale.Stay Wyrd!www.wyrdwessex.co.ukBuy our merch hereWritten by Craig Brooks and hosted by Craig Brooks and Andy StevensEdited by Craig BrooksIntro music by Leonell Cassio - The Paranormal Is Real (ft. Carrie) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.