A Thousand Oaks Woman Convicted of Killing Chad O’Melia During Marijuana-Induced Psychosis

Accident – Death – Obituary News : A Thousand Oaks woman has been found guilty of killing a man during a marijuana-induced episode of psychosis. Bryn Spejcher, aged 32, was convicted of the murder of Chad O’Melia, whom she had been dating for a few weeks. The verdict was delivered by the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office.

The incident occurred on May 27, 2018, when Spejcher visited O’Melia’s apartment. Both individuals consumed marijuana by taking hits from a bong. However, Spejcher had an adverse reaction to the drug, leading to a Cannabis-Induced Psychotic Disorder, according to authorities.

During the episode, Spejcher stabbed O’Melia multiple times, resulting in his death. She also inflicted repeated stab wounds on herself. The following morning, police officers arrived at the scene to discover O’Melia’s lifeless body in a pool of blood. Spejcher was still holding a knife and screaming hysterically.

Officers attempted to disarm Spejcher, but she resisted and plunged the knife into her own neck. Eventually, they were able to subdue her using a taser and baton blows. She was disarmed, and a long serrated bread knife was taken from her possession.

O’Melia was pronounced dead at the scene, and Spejcher was subsequently charged with involuntary manslaughter. The prosecution also added special allegations against her, including the use of a deadly weapon, committing a serious felony, engaging in violent conduct indicating a danger to society, and being armed with and using a weapon during the commission of the crime.

Ventura County Senior Deputy District Attorney, Audry Nafziger, expressed gratitude for the jury’s verdict, stating, “This was a hard-fought case where the victim’s family had to wait a long time for justice, and I am grateful for the jury’s verdict.” The presentation of evidence will continue on Monday.

Spejcher is scheduled to appear in court on December 4 to face the special allegations and enhancements brought against her.

In conclusion, a Thousand Oaks woman, Bryn Spejcher, has been found guilty of killing Chad O’Melia during a marijuana-induced episode of psychosis. The incident highlights the potential risks and adverse effects associated with marijuana use, particularly in individuals who may be susceptible to psychotic disorders. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible drug use and the potential consequences that can arise from the misuse of substances..