By USA Daily Now 
Newly obtained prison documents reveal that TYREE SMITH, infamously known as the “Connecticut Cannibal,” exhibited violent behavior while incarcerated, posing a significant threat to others before his conditional release. Smith confessed to the 2011 murder of a homeless man, ANGEL GONZALEZ, in Connecticut, admitting to consuming parts of the victim’s body in a cemetery. In 2013, a three-judge panel found Smith not guilty by reason of insanity, leading to his commitment at Connecticut Valley Hospital for 60 years. However, in February 2025, the Nutmeg State’s Psychiatric Security Review Board granted him conditional release, allowing him to leave the hospital under strict supervision and continued mental health treatment.
According to WTNH, Smith has been transitioning to a community facility with round-the-clock monitoring, treatment, and stringent conditions. His doctor claims he has been rehabilitated and is taking medication to manage psychosis and auditory hallucinations. Forensic psychiatrist CAREN TEITELBAUM described Smith as “a joy” and a calming presence for other patients, citing his clinical stability and adherence to treatment.
However, prison documents obtained by WTNH paint a contrasting picture, detailing violent incidents during his incarceration. In April 2013, while held at Garner Correctional Facility, Smith assaulted another inmate without provocation, resulting in his segregation and a warning label deeming him “a serious threat to life, property, other inmates, or facility security.”
TALITHA FRAZIER, Gonzalez’s sister-in-law, expressed outrage over the release, stating, “It angers me, and it shocks me. He’s pleading insanity but still committing violent acts.”
Smith’s case has drawn widespread criticism. Republican state Sen. PAUL CICARELLA called the decision “outrageous and mind-boggling,” emphasizing the gravity of Smith‘s actions. “Murder and cannibalism and release in the same sentence—that’s a problem,” he told WFSB. Joined by fellow Republican lawmakers, including Sens. HENRI MARTIN, HEATHER SOMERS, and STEPHEN HARDING, Cicarella condemned the decision, accusing it of jeopardizing public safety and failing to deliver justice for Gonzalez’s family.
Smith’s gruesome crime shocked the nation. According to court testimony, he consumed parts of Gonzalez’s brain and an eyeball while drinking sake. His cousin, NICOLE RABB, testified that Smith had warned her of his intentions hours before the murder. “I’ve heard of Hannibal Lecter, but I never thought I’d have someone in my family who would actually eat someone,” she said.
The Connecticut Department of Corrections has not commented on the matter.
Sources:
WTNH
WFSB
CBS News
Associated Press