A forensic psychologist testified Tuesday morning that Quentin Smith suffers from a number of mental health issues that the jury should consider when deciding whether or not to recommend a death sentence.
Dr. John Fabian, a board certified forensic psychologist and neuropsychologist, evaluated Smith on multiple occasions between July 2018 and September of this year. He determined Smith suffered from childhood abuse and neglect, including verbal, emotional and sexual abuse. He also likely has a learning disability and has been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder and post traumatic stress disorder, Fabian said.
He added that Smith had a “mildly broken brain” as a result of the significant early childhood trauma he experienced, including a volatile relationship between Smith’s mother and stepfather.
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen him smile,” Fabian said.
Fabian said he spent about 18 hours examining Smith, including testing his IQ and cognitive function. He said Smith’s IQ was 85, which is considered below average and in the 15th percentile.
The testimony is part of Smith’s defense attorneys’ effort to convince the jury to spare Smith’s life.
Smith was convicted Friday on aggravated murder charges in the February 2018 deaths of Westerville police officers Eric Joering and Anthony Morelli.
Fabian is expected to continue his testimony Tuesday afternoon, and the jury is expected to begin deliberations Wednesday to determine whether to recommend a death sentence in the case.
If the jury can’t unanimously agree on a recommendation of death, it must recommend life without parole, life with a chance of parole after 25 years or life with a chance of parole after 30 years.
@bethany_bruner
