News

Judge denies request to treat Louise Turpin out of custody for mental disorder

Published November 30, 2018 12:06 PM

David Allen Turpin and Louise Anne Turpin returned to the Riverside County Hall of Justice for a trial-readiness conference Friday, their first time back in court since August 31, when they plead not guilty to 88 criminal charges in connection with the alleged extensive abuse and torture of 12 of their 13 children.

David and Louise Turpin were first arrested on January 15. On January 14, their 17-year-old daughter escaped their Perris residence and called 9-1-1 dispatch to reported the alleged abuse.

The Turpin children, who range in age from 2 to 29, were initially transferred over to the care of county Child Protective Services and Adult Protective Services staff. Most were hospitalized for severe malnourishment and other disorders.

During the day’s proceedings, the defense requested that Louise Turpin be allowed to attend an out-of-custody mental health diversion program, according to ABC 7’s Leticia Juarez.

Defense attorney Jeff Moore stated in court that Louise Turpin was recently diagnosed with histrionic personality that led to her actions and that she is not a danger to the public. The diagnosis can cause those affected to be excessively controlling, and physiologist who diagnosed her stated that her actions were motivated by the disorder, according to Juarez.

The District Attorney objected to the request, stating the Louise did pose an unreasonable risk to the public, and that the defense did not establish that Louise’s criminal actions were caused by her mental disorder.

Judge Bernard Schwartz denied the defense’s request based on facts established in the preliminary hearing.

The prosecution requested that David Allen Turpin’s work laptop be returned to his employer, Northrop Grumman, as the original device is no longer needed because a copy was made. This request was granted by Judge Schwartz.

The Turpins Fidelity financial records were also turned over the prosecution.

The Turpins are set to return to court next on November 30 for a trial readiness conference.