He should not be allowed to do this.
A former Alabama pastor, Terry Lee Greer, previously institutionalized and mandated for mental health treatment after being acquitted of charges related to the fatal shooting of his wife and attacking his daughter in 2013 due to mental defect, is currently striving to discontinue his treatment to reside closer to his family. However, a judge has insisted that he must persist with his mental health support.
In January 2013, Greer, now aged 64, tragically shot his wife, Lisa, and assaulted his daughter, Suzanna, in their residence at Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church in Gardendale. Following years of therapeutic intervention, including overcoming a suicide attempt, reports suggest that Greer has made progress, permitting supervised visits with his family while residing in a therapeutic group home. In this setting, he engages in teaching Bible study, indicating a positive trajectory, according to AL.com.
Brenda Lampley from East Central Mental Health Center attested to treating Greer weekly for approximately four years, noting his repeated expressions of remorse and evolving capacity for independence. Despite his desire to relocate to Virginia to be with family, Judge Michael Streety has allowed for an out-of-state move but upheld the court-ordered mental health treatment requirement.
Originally deemed not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect in 2014, Greer was initially committed to a state institution due to concerns about self-harm and potential harm to others, as declared by retired Judge Tommy Nail. Over time, restrictions have eased, culminating in a September plea by Greer’s attorney, Henry Lagman, for unconditional release.
Lagman detailed Greer’s history, including time in the Jefferson County Jail, Bryce mental hospital in Tuscaloosa, and subsequent residence at the Hillside Therapeutic Group home in Wetumpka. Currently residing at Seren Manor Assisted Living in Brundidge, Greer can visit his parents in Tennessee and has re-established a relationship with his daughter.
While supporters emphasize his positive strides and commitment to change, Lampley, in her testimony, stressed the ongoing necessity of therapy, citing it as a crucial safety net against potential relapses. The delicate balance between Greer’s desire for familial proximity and the court’s obligation to ensure ongoing mental health support remains a challenging aspect of his legal and personal journey.