"The ruling was based on insufficient evidence of Mr. Morrison’s mental state at time of entry into the dwelling. "

Deputy Public Defender Casey Russo responded to my request for a statement on the dismissal today of the Douglas Morrison case. See post below.

"I am very happy with the outcome.  The ruling was based on insufficient evidence of Mr. Morrison’s mental state at time of entry into the dwelling.  It is worth noting that I made a motion for mental health diversion in this case which the DA opposed at all opportunities."



"Maggie Fleming herself even appeared at the hearing on mental health diversion to oppose our motion. Despite the DA’s steadfast opposition,  Judge Cockrum nonetheless found Mr. Morrison eligible, but ultimately denied the motion due to inadequate mental health resources within the county. "

"We felt mental health diversion was a fantastic compromise given the obvious issues of proof in the case. And Mr. Morrison could have received the mental health treatment he needs.  But instead, vast money and resources were instead spent on a costly trial that resulted in a directed verdict, meaning the judge found that no reasonable juror could have found Mr. Morrison guilty. "

"At trial I called Dr. Katy Wilson, who did an extremely thorough psychiatric assessment of Mr. Morrison.  Her fantastic work  was crucial to the great outcome in this case."

Previous post:
https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2019/09/third-day-of-jury-trial-and-case.html?m=1