In a horrifying incident that has shocked prison authorities and mental health advocates alike, a Texas death row inmate has allegedly removed his own eyes in what appears to be a desperate act of self-harm.
Andre Thomas, 39, who was convicted of murdering his estranged wife and two children in 2004, is said to have committed the gruesome act while incarcerated at the Polunsky Unit in Livingston, Texas. Prison officials confirmed the incident occurred earlier this week, though details remain scarce.
History of Mental Health Issues
Thomas has a long-documented history of severe mental illness, having previously removed one of his eyes in 2008 while awaiting trial. According to court records, he was diagnosed with schizophrenia and has claimed to hear voices from God.
"This tragic case highlights the urgent need for better mental health care in our prison system," said Dr. Rebecca Fletcher, a forensic psychiatrist. "When individuals with severe psychiatric disorders are placed in solitary confinement, their conditions often deteriorate dramatically."
Legal and Ethical Questions
The shocking incident has reignited debates about executing mentally ill prisoners. Thomas's lawyers have previously argued his mental state makes him incompetent for execution, though courts have rejected these claims.
Texas Department of Criminal Justice spokesperson Amanda Hernandez stated: "All offenders receive appropriate medical care. We're investigating this incident and will take necessary precautions to ensure safety."
Advocacy groups are calling for immediate intervention, with the Texas Civil Rights Project describing the situation as "a failure of the system at every level."
