Trial of teenager accused of stabbing mother, dogs canceled – 95.3 MNC

The trial of a Mishawaka teenager accused of stabbing his mother and two dogs has been called off.

The court found Caden Rutledge, 17, not responsible by reason of insanity.

Rutledge, who was facing attempted murder charges, was declared legally insane by two doctors. He claimed Satan manipulated him into stabbing him. His mother, who was stabbed about 13 times, agreed with the insanity ruling, according to WSBT.

In August 2023, Rutledge's mother was found seriously injured by Mishawaka police. Two dogs were also stabbed, with one requiring emergency surgery. Rutledge admitted to stabbing her, believing he was “killing the demon inside her.”

Based on the evidence and testimony, the court found the outcome fair and canceled the trial, thus closing the criminal case. Oaklawn will evaluate Rutledge's mental health to determine if he requires long-term commitment to a mental health facility.