Failed-exorcism defense raised in 1998 stabbing death of Florida woman - Orlando Sentinel

Sharon Hill offers an excellent explanation a why this "fascination" with pseudo-religion is so dangerous.

Guns or drugs or religion can easily become deadly when utilized by unstable and irrational people who may be suffering from various forms of stress in addition to these volatile components. The unreasonable mindset allowed for the religious belief in devils and violent exorcism to take over and be used as a course of deliberate action.
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Meanwhile, the sensational promotion of exorcism continues unabated ensuring that the public will be exposed to ever more stupidity and irresponsible attempts to “remove demons”. The latest upcoming ill-conceived example of “entertainment” is the idiostuperific Halloween special Exorcism: Live! to be broadcast on Destination America starring “psychic” medium Chip Coffey and the cast of Ghost Asylum. Apparently they will exorcise a house in the suburbs of St. Louis, Missouri that supposedly inspired the Exorcist novel and film. Sounds like a silly circus. But once again, it does make us pause and reflect on why in the 21st century we are not only still talking about demons and exorcisms but that too many people see them as a genuine activity. The crack(ed) PR team from Destination America tell us the demons KNOW they are coming. They want you to Tweet your support. Smooth. As Vinnie Mancuso of The Observer writes: The Power of Christ Retweets You. This could be one of the dumbest shows ever aired.

More than 17 years after the stabbing death of his wife, Bobby McGee is facing trial for first-degree murder in what his defense is calling a failed exorcism.

Helene Ball McGee, 44, was found dead in her Dunedin home with more than 19 stab wounds on March 11, 1998. After deputies searched the area, Bobby Lane McGee was found huddled in a nearby ditch, wearing a ski mask and camouflage pants, and carrying two knife sheathes.

Two knives that later were discovered in the ditch by a dive team matched Bobby McGee's newlywed bride's wounds, and bloody footprints led away from the home to his hiding spot.

McGee was found to be mentally incompetent in 2000 and sent to a state hospital to receive treatment for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Fifteen years later, he is taking medication and is been deemed ready to face a jury. If convicted, McGee would face life in prison.

Public Defender John Swisher said in his opening statement Wednesday the defendant didn't intend to kill his wife, but instead was trying to perform an exorcism because he thought she was possessed by the devil.

Failed-exorcism defense raised in 1998 stabbing death of Florida woman - Orlando Sentinel