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Forensic Psychiatrist: Low Risk for Teen Murderer
2 Jun
Summary
- Teenager found at low risk of reoffending by court-appointed psychiatrist.
- The teen pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in October 2024.
- Sentencing for the youth, whose identity is protected, is due in late July.
A teenager who admitted to murdering 15-year-old Reese Stanzel near Perth, Ontario, two years ago has been assessed as a low risk to reoffend. The assessment was made by Dr. Bradley Booth, a court-ordered forensic psychiatrist, during the sentencing hearing at Perth Courthouse.
The accused, who was 16 when she committed the murder in October 2024, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in November 2025. Her identity is shielded by the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
Dr. Booth's evaluation included interviews with the teen, her records, and an agreed statement of facts. He diagnosed her with several mental health disorders, including depression and PTSD, stemming from childhood trauma and the murder itself.
Despite these diagnoses, the psychiatrist noted the teen showed no prior history of physical aggression and scored low on psychopathy assessments. He believes she has remorse for her actions.
Reese Stanzel was discovered deceased in a wooded area in October 2024. The final sentencing for the teen is anticipated in late July.
