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Man 'released early' from mental health unit nearly killed his mum
North Devon Journal
|July 03, 2025
MENTALLY ill Devon man who was “prematurely discharged” from hospital attacked his own mum during a brutal assault in her home.
Billy Larsen, 26, was suffering from psychosis and delusions when he launched the terrifying attack in Woolacombe, a court heard.
She was found by friends semi-conscious and covered in blood after Larsen kicked her senseless and tried to suffocate her with a plastic bag.
She told Exeter Crown Court her son had been released too early from a mental health unit and she “knew he wasn't right”.
She had tried repeatedly to get the right help for her son but felt her concerns were not listened to. “I am collateral damage in an incident so severe I was almost killed by my own son and that will live with me for-ever,” she said.
Larsen was given a hospital order after admitting strangulation and GBH. The judge said it was necessary to protect the public and make sure he gets the treatment he needs.
On May 22 of last year Larsen was released from Moorland View mental health unit at North Devon District Hospital where he had been detained under the Mental Health Act for assessment. Prosecutor Simon Burns said he was discharged two days earlier than planned.
This story is from the July 03, 2025 edition of North Devon Journal.
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