Forensic psychologist describes Clancy's 'mental disease' at time of kids' deaths

August 19, 2026 - 20:35

Zeisel detailed the moment Clancy called her then-husband, Patrick, to confess. According to the psychologist, Clancy was not in a state of rational awareness but rather in the grip of a psychotic episode. He described her as speaking in a flat, detached tone, as if she were reporting an event that had happened to someone else. Zeisel said that during their sessions, Clancy often struggled to recall specific details of that evening, a common feature in cases of profound dissociation.

The defense is using Zeisel's testimony to argue that Clancy, who was diagnosed with postpartum depression and anxiety, should not be held criminally responsible. The prosecution, however, has pointed to the premeditated nature of the acts, noting that Clancy had researched methods and sent text messages earlier that day that suggested planning. Zeisel countered that such behavior can occur during a manic or psychotic break, where the individual's logic is intact but their perception of reality is shattered. The trial continues with cross-examination expected to focus on the reliability of Clancy's own recollections, which Zeisel admits are fragmented.