STEVENS POINT (WAOW) -
Steven Feck asked a Portage County judge to release him from a mental institution at a hearing on Wednesday. Feck was found guilty of murdering his grandfather in 1990, but due to mental illness.
A judge denied his petition after hearing testimony from two doctors that evaluated Feck's mental state.
According to court documents, Feck used a pair of scissors to kill his grandfather in December of 1989. A few months later, he was sentenced to life in a mental hospital.
"He's done nothing to try and get better. He won't even treat his diabetes or seek medical attention for his medical needs much less his psychiatric needs," Portage County Assistant District Attorney Veronica Isherwood said.
But Feck asked to get out early. At a hearing, the state called two doctors to testify. Both of them psychiatrists who evaluated Feck.
Doctor Richard Hurlbut testified that when he tried to meet with Feck a few months ago, Feck refused to cooperate. Hurlbut said Feck told him to "get out" and called him an idiot.
Hurlbut testified that Feck is still dangerous and often refuses to take his medication. A second psychiatrist addressed the court by phone. He agreed Feck shouldn't be released.
Isherwood said that's the right decision. "Because he's not cooperating with any kind of treatment plan that he certainly would not be appropriate for a conditional release," she said.
The defense argued Feck has never been violent toward staff or other inmates, but the judge cited his unstable mental condition and unpredictable behavior when off medication before denying his release. Feck's attorney had no comment.
Isherwood said the only way Feck could ever be released, is if he is by order of a judge.
Feck also petitioned for conditional release back in 1994, but that request was also denied. Isherwood said there's no limit to how many times Feck can request to be let out.
