‘Connecticut cannibal’ release under scrutiny amid disturbing revelation

Newly released prison documents have shed light on the violent and disturbing behavior exhibited by Tyree Smith, also known as the “Connecticut Cannibal,” while behind bars. The documents reveal that Smith was considered a “serious threat to life” in prison before being granted release, according to a recent news report.

Smith made headlines in 2011 when he confessed to the brutal killing of a homeless man named Angel Gonzalez in Connecticut. He shockingly admitted to consuming parts of Gonzalez’s body in a cemetery. Despite his heinous actions, Smith was found not guilty by reason of insanity in Gonzalez’s death by a three-judge panel in 2013. He was subsequently committed to Connecticut Valley Hospital for a 60-year term.

In a surprising turn of events, Smith was granted a conditional release by the Nutmeg State’s Psychiatric Security Review Board in February 2025, allowing him to leave Connecticut Valley Hospital in Middletown. However, he will remain under supervision and continue to receive mental health services.

While Smith’s doctor has claimed that he has been rehabilitated and is stable, new prison documents obtained by WTNH paint a different picture. These documents detail several altercations Smith had with other inmates during his time in prison, highlighting his violent tendencies.

One incident described in the report took place in April 2013 at Garner Correctional Facility, where Smith was charged with murder. Smith reportedly engaged in a physical altercation with another inmate, resulting in his segregation from the general prison population. The documents indicate that Smith’s presence posed a significant threat to others, prompting authorities to take action to ensure the safety of staff and inmates.

The release of these troubling documents has sparked outrage among lawmakers and the public. Connecticut state Sen. Paul Cicarella and other Republican senators have criticized the decision to release Smith, calling it “outrageous” and “mind-boggling.” They argue that Smith’s release puts public safety at risk and fails to deliver justice for Gonzalez’s family.

Despite the controversy surrounding his release, Smith’s doctor maintains that he has shown improvement and poses no immediate danger to others. However, the revelations from the prison documents suggest a darker side to Smith’s behavior that cannot be ignored.

The Connecticut Department of Corrections has yet to respond to the backlash and concerns raised by lawmakers and the public. As the debate over Smith’s release continues, many are left questioning the decision to grant freedom to a man with such a violent and disturbing past.