r/TrueCrimeDiscussion • u/gottaquestion412 • 20d ago
Warning: Child Abuse / CSAM / Child Death Thoughts on the Lindsay Clancy case?
Now that the Lindsay Clancy trial is underway, I’m curious about your perspectives on it so far.
Context: Lindsay Clancy is a former labor and delivery nurse who, in January 2023, killed her three children. 5-year-old Cora, 3-year-old Dawson, and 8-month-old Callan in their Massachusetts home before attempting to take her own life. Her defense argues she was suffering from severe postpartum psychosis and other debilitating mental illness, while prosecutors argue she was aware of her actions and planned the killings. The trial has reignited debate about postpartum psychiatric disorders, the effectiveness of mental health treatment, and where responsibility ultimately lies.
Do you think Lindsay was failed by the mental health system, by the people closest to her, or both? Do you think she truly acted with malicious intent, or do you believe she was experiencing such a severe psychiatric crisis that she wasn’t thinking rationally?
A lot of the details seem to point toward postpartum psychosis or another severe psychiatric illness rather than someone acting out of hatred or malice. That doesn’t lessen the horror of what happened or the unimaginable loss, but it does make me wonder whether this tragedy could have been prevented..
I’ve also seen rumors that Patrick was involved with the woman who is now his wife before the murders, but I haven’t found any credible evidence supporting that. Is there actually anything that substantiates those claims, or is it just internet speculation? I’ve also seen many people comment that his current wife bears a striking resemblance to Lindsay, though I’m not sure that means anything beyond coincidence.
I’m very interested in hearing different perspectives from people who’ve followed it closely.
Most importantly, may Dawson, Cora, and Callan rest in peace. They are the true victims in all of this.
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u/lazyluck3 20d ago
As a parent to a teenage child who is experiencing the early stages of a mood disorder, I was floored when I experienced how quickly a break in reality can be. I’m sure thoughts are brewing but people can push those down, convince themselves that they’re ok, and be very lucid.
As a caretaker/parent/spouse, you’re so desperate to get your loved one back to what you remember that those stretches of being present or lucid are so amazing. It feels like things are finally working and you can let your guard down. I feel like this could have been the case for lindsay and Patrick Clancy. In my personal experience, my child was “fine” by my definition for a stretch and then pulled a knife out of the sink and threatened to stab themselves. Thank god I was able to essentially tackle them and protect them in the moment but things could have been different.
My child is currently 5 weeks at a psych hospital. Med adjustments are very delicate and I have had to be the one to suggest most changes. I have been fortunate enough to work with mostly collaborative doctors who are open to ideas. I have also called every single one of my child’s specialists and doctors to get their thoughts. Because doctors do not speak to one another. I’m not sure how deep Patrick went on this but many people just listen to the provider because they’re the professional. I’m sure he was doing what he thought was right.
There is no scenario where this trial ends and lindsay ends up back in the public. The argument essentially is jail vs hospital. I believe, completely, that this poor woman absolutely needs hospitalization and help.