22-02-2025
Board approves conditional release of Birdgeport cannibal killer
BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) — The Connecticut Psychiatric Security Review Board Friday voted to grant the conditional release of a man who admitted to killing another man and then eating his eyeball and part of his brain.
Tyree Smith killed Angel 'Tun Tun' Gonzalez with an ax in a cemetery on Dec. 15, 2011. He then removed an eyeball and part of the man's brain and took them to Lakeview Cemetery, where he ate them over his cousin's grave.
Smith was found not guilty of murder by reason of insanity in July 2013. He was sentenced to 60 years in a psychiatric hospital. In 2023, he transitioned to a group home.
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The board determined Smith has 'demonstrated long-term stability, remained engaged in all recommended treatments, and consistently followed his care plan.'
The conditions of his release include structured supervision and continued mental health services, the board said.
The board said people being considered for conditional release first go through a temporary leave process, during which they remain under hospital supervision while slowly increasing their time in the community.
They said the goal of conditional release is 'rehabilitation, not punishment' for those found not guilty by reason of insanity.
Republicans Sen. Heather Somers, Sen. Paul Cicarella, Sen Henri Martin and Sen. Stephen Harding issued a joint statement, calling the board's decision 'outrageous.'
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