ABC · updated 2026-10-15

Newslive Surden Proof Man on Trial in Deputy's Killing Using Insanity

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“NEWSLIVE SURDEN PROOF MAN ON TRIAL IN DEPUTY'S KILLING USING INSANITY”

covered 2026-10-15 ▶ Be on the air with ABC

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A 'not guilty by insanity' verdict can cost MORE than prison!

State psychiatric hospitals cost over $100,000/year — more than double the ~$45,000 avg. state prison cost. Defendants found not guilty by reason of insanity are typically committed indefinitely, not freed.

Topic poll · all networksShould mental illness be a valid defense in a deputy's killing?

  • Yes — if illness drove the act 0%
  • Only with overwhelming evidence 0%
  • No — accountability must hold 0%
  • Depends on severity of illness 0%

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Forensic psychiatrists can charge $400–$600/hr as trial experts.

Insanity defenses require multiple independent mental health evaluations. In high-profile cases, total expert witness fees — including testimony and case review — can exceed $50,000, often funded by the court if the defendant can't pay.

Topic poll · all networksHow often should the insanity defense succeed in court?

  • Almost never — it's overused 0%
  • Only for severe mental illness 0%
  • When trauma clearly caused it 0%
  • Let juries decide case by case 0%

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Topic poll · all networksWhich factor will most decide this deputy-killing verdict?

  • His violent prior record 0%
  • Strength of insanity defense 0%
  • Jury's view of his temper 0%
  • Prosecution's courtroom case 0%

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