In our community, safety is a fundamental right. However, this right is being threatened by the potential release and reintegration into our community of Tyree Smith. Smith, who is currently accommodated at Connecticut Valley Hospital, was sentenced to 60 years for the brutal, cannibalistic murder of Angel Gonzalez back in 2012. He is now being released into society claiming he demonstrates “long -term stability.”

Smith is a person known to us and his presence raises concerns about our safety. Based on statistics from the U.S. Department of Justice, individuals with severe psychiatric disorders were involved in about 20% of jail and prison incidents (Torrey EF, 2014). Our concerns lie, not solely with Smith himself but more so with the lack of support and monitoring systems in place for such individuals. We strongly believe and request that Tyree Smith should remain at the Connecticut Valley Hospital, where he can receive consistent, professional mental health care that he needs, and in turn, will provide a safer environment for our community. Please join us to ensure our community stays the safe haven we know and love it to be. Sign this petition today.