Psychotic Murderer's Release from Mental Hospital Raises Concerns

A Missouri judge has ruled that Lloyd "Pete" Grass, who killed his wife in a psychotic episode in 1992, is no longer showing signs of illness and should be released from a state mental hospital. The release has sparked concerns from the slain woman's family and Attorney General Jay Nixon's office, which plans to appeal the judge's ruling. Grass, 57, has been treated at state mental health facilities for most of the years since the killing, but the judge's ruling has left many wondering if he is still a threat to society.

Key Takeaways:

• Lloyd "Pete" Grass, 57, has been deemed fit for release from a state mental hospital after 13 years without a psychotic episode.
• The judge set several conditions for Grass' release, including placement at a Missouri Department of Mental Health group home and supervision by a forensic case manager.
• Grass must also stay out of Warren County and have no contact with any member of his deceased wife's family.
• After 90 days of compliant behavior, Grass will be considered for part- or full-time work release.
• Attorney General Jay Nixon's office plans to appeal the judge's ruling.
• Grass' lawyer, Irene Karns, will contend that Grass is entitled to an unconditional release.
• The slain woman's family believes Grass is still a threat and capable of manipulating people.

Statistics:

• 13 years: the period during which Grass has had no psychotic episodes.
• 90 days: the time period after which Grass will be considered for part- or full-time work release.
• 57: Grass' current age.
• 1: the number of times Grass has been treated at state mental health facilities.
• 1: the number of times Grass has committed a violent attack in the past 13 years.

Sources:

• St. Louis Post Dispatch
• STLtoday.com/links