Defense attorneys for a 15-year-old girl accused of murdering her mother rested their case on Wednesday after presenting evidence related to the teenager’s mental health. The evidence included medical records, school reports, journal entries, and a sketchbook, which the defense argues contributed to a violent incident.
Carly Madison Gregg is charged with the murder of her 40-year-old mother, Ashley Smylie, and the attempted murder of her 39-year-old stepfather, Heath Smylie, in their Brandon home on March 19. At the time of the offenses, Gregg was 14 years old.
During the third day of the trial, defense attorneys Bridget Todd and Kevin Camp argued that Gregg had been an “exceptional student” despite a history of mental health issues. The prosecution concluded its case the previous day.
Outside the jury’s presence, Circuit Court Judge Arthur Dewey allowed the defense to call an expert witness to discuss Gregg’s mental state during the incident. Dr. Andrew Clark, a child and adolescent psychiatrist from Cambridge, MA, testified that he diagnosed Gregg with Bipolar II disorder and detailed factors that may have influenced her actions.
When asked if Gregg understood the nature of her conduct or the difference between right and wrong at the time of the incident, Clark replied, “I don’t think so.”
Clark’s medical records indicated that Gregg had struggled with depression and anxiety for some time. While she generally had good attendance and performed well academically, her journal entries and sketches revealed troubling themes that suggested aggression and instability. Clark read a journal entry from March 12 in which Gregg expressed distressing thoughts, stating, “I think I had a psychotic break earlier.”
Clark noted that there were significant indicators of mental health concerns, including writings in a sketchbook where Gregg expressed feelings of not being able to endure and a plea for help.
Examining Gregg’s recent behaviors, Clark noted that the teen had started displaying typical teenage activities, including staying out late and occasionally using marijuana, which she claimed helped alleviate her anxiety.
Gregg’s mental health challenges are rooted in her early childhood, according to Clark. She lost a sister at the age of 4, began hearing voices around the age of 6, and later displayed symptoms of depression and self-harm. After her parents learned of her self-harming behavior, they sought medical help for her.
Clark described Gregg’s relationship with her family, stating it was complex, especially with her mother. He reiterated the impact of these dynamics on her mental health.
On the day of the incident, Clark explained that Gregg was feeling irritable and had difficulty focusing in class. After being confronted by her mother about drug use, she reported a blank memory of the subsequent events, only recalling later that she had crawled out of a drainage pipe after the incident.
During cross-examination, prosecutor Michael Smith pointed out inconsistencies in Gregg’s recollection of the events, questioning how she could remember certain details but not crucial moments during the alleged murder. Clark maintained his assessment that Gregg did not appreciate the difference between right and wrong throughout the ordeal.
Gregg faces multiple charges, including murder and attempted murder, with potential sentences ranging from 20 years to life in prison.