Bryn Spejcher: Lawyer of 'naive' marijuana user who stabbed BF 108 times asserts defense presented in court 'not a con job'

CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES: Attorneys representing the California woman who avoided prison time after fatally stabbing her boyfriend in a marijuana-induced psychosis, are cautioning about the potential dangers of extra potent marijuana strains obtained from "illicit" sources. 

They emphasize that even in states where the drug is legalized, such strains can lead to unpredictable and tragic consequences.

In 2018, Bryn Spejcher, aged 32, allegedly stabbed her boyfriend, Chad O'Melia, 108 times after consuming an ultra-high potency strain of marijuana, as per Fox News.

According to her legal team, the strain carried a warning label that she was unaware of. Subsequently, she also inflicted harm on her dog and herself, surviving 43 self-inflicted wounds and undergoing multiple surgeries.

What did Bryn Spejcher’s attorney claim?

Bryn Spejcher's attorney, Michael Goldstein, refuted the claims of those who have described the defense presented in court as a "con job." 

He asserted that the defense, centered around cannabis-induced psychosis, was primarily supported by the testimonies of renowned psychiatrist Dr. William Wirshing and prosecution expert Dr. Kris Mohandie. 

Goldstein stated that both experts concluded that the explosive violence exhibited by Spejcher was unpredictable and unforeseeable.

Goldstein pointed out that the specific marijuana strain involved had a THC level of 31.8% and carried a warning label stating, "Caution, for High Tolerance Users Only."

He highlighted data from the Yale School of Medicine, indicating a significant increase in THC content in seized cannabis, from an average of 4% in 1995 to 17% in 2017. 

Legal dispensaries in Los Angeles, such as SweetFlower.com and The Artist Tree, were found to sell marijuana "flower" with THC levels as high as 39%.

Additionally, Goldstein raised concerns about processed and concentrated cannabis products, which can contain up to 90% THC. He emphasized that this issue is not being adequately addressed.

Michael Goldstein defends Bryn Spejcher

Michael Goldstein also mentioned a prior incident where O'Melia's roommate had an "extreme reaction" after smoking from the same bong, experiencing hallucinations and fear of death months before the fatal encounter.

Describing Spejcher as a "naive user" who had only smoked pot a few times, Goldstein highlighted her occupation as an audiologist at the UCLA Medical Center, where she worked despite being hearing impaired herself.

When questioned about the distinction between Spejcher's case and a fatal drunk driving crash, Goldstein emphasized the defining factor as the killer's awareness of the situation and its implications.

Goldstein further remarked, stating, “As far as a DUI is concerned, that person knowingly and consciously drinks to excess and decides to get behind the wheel of a car, In Ms. Spejcher’s case, she took a hit of what she believed to be a legal consumer product in the sanctity of Mr. O'Melia’s home as they sat on his couch with no plans to go drive home that evening."

While O'Melia provided the marijuana, he did not disclose the warning on the label, according to Goldstein. 

He emphasized, "Mr. O'Melia was a well-documented, experienced, and chronic user of high-potency cannabis," citing trial evidence. 

Goldstein contended that this came with a responsibility, and armed with such information, Spejcher could have made an informed decision, potentially preventing the tragedy.

Michael Goldstein expresses sympathy for Chad O’Melia’s father

Responding to the heartfelt protest from O'Melia's father, who asserted that the legal system had completely failed in his son's trial, Goldstein expressed sympathy, stating, "Our prayers are with the O'Melia family and cannot imagine the unspeakable loss they have suffered."

He added, "Spejcher never envisioned taking a hit of a legal substance, spiraling into a severe psychotic state and stabbing another human being and then herself."

He concluded, acknowledging that Spejcher is shattered and remorseful for the events involving O'Melia. Goldstein noted that she will never lead a normal life again, and her medical license, along with her ability to assist other deaf individuals, is now at risk.