Oakland man who killed jail cellmate is not guilty by reason of insanity
Briefly

Bryson Levy, a sex offender, killed his cellmate, Yuri Brand, shortly after being placed with him in jail. Instead of facing traditional charges, Levy was allowed to plead guilty to voluntary manslaughter but was found not guilty by reason of insanity. Prosecutors agreed that he was legally insane during the incident, leading to his transfer to the State Hospital system for treatment. His case raises significant concerns about mental health care in jails, especially given Santa Rita Jail's ongoing issues and consent decree aimed at reforming conditions.
Levy's legal agreement recognized his insanity during the homicide, leading to a not guilty verdict and a commitment to the State Hospital system.
After reviewing the case, prosecutors agreed Levy was legally insane, which allows for treatment in a mental health facility instead of prison.
The circumstances surrounding Levy's incarceration and the death of his cellmate highlight ongoing concerns regarding mental health management in jails.
Santa Rita Jail is operating under a consent decree to improve conditions after a series of fatalities, underscoring the urgent need for mental health reforms.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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