Jonathan Long, a teenager accused of fatally stabbing his mother, Misty Long, was found not guilty by reason of insanity. The incident, which occurred when Long was 16, involved him reportedly stabbing his mother around 100 times, according to the Sangamon County coroner. Long opted for a bench trial, which concluded in less than 30 minutes. A doctor determined that Long was suffering from a chronic psychotic process at the time of the incident.
Despite the verdict, Long will not be released immediately. Christian County State’s Attorney John McWard explained, “He’s gonna be treated like an adult and any other adult in this situation. My estimate is that he probably will do upwards of 45 years.” Long will need to pass a psychological evaluation and receive a judge’s approval before any potential release.
Long is expected to be committed to a facility under the Department of Human Services. McWard stated, “He’s going to have to be placed in a facility immediately because he’s not able to safely be in the public.”
Long could have the opportunity to appeal for parole, potentially after 20 years of treatment. McWard noted, “At 37, he would be potentially eligible for parole.” Long’s next court date is scheduled for March 6 at 10:30 a.m., where further decisions regarding his treatment and commitment will be made.
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