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A Castaic woman was placed in a state psychiatric hospital Tuesday after allegedly murdering her elderly father in 2014.
A Castaic woman was placed in a state psychiatric hospital Tuesday after allegedly murdering her elderly father in 2014.

Castaic Woman Placed In State Hospital For Murdering Father

A Castaic woman was placed in a state psychiatric hospital Tuesday after allegedly murdering her elderly father in 2014.


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Denise Ann Gillis, 51, was found to be insane at the time of the crime after pleading no contest to the murder of her 87-year-old father, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office.

“Gillis pleaded no contest, and on October 4 she was found not guilty by reason of insanity,” said Ricardo Santiago, spokesperson for the District Attorney’s Office. “She has been placed in the Patton Hospital.”

Patton Hospital provides treatment to forensically and civilly committed patients within a secure treatment area.

“The ultimate goal is for the patient to reintegrate into the community with an increased awareness of their role within society and to take responsibility for personal and public safety,” according to the hospital’s website.

See Related: Castaic Woman Accused Of Killing Father Found Not Guilty Due To Insanity After No Contest Plea

Persons judged by the court to be guilty of a crime, but not guilty because they were insane at the time of the crime, are committed to a state hospital for treatment for a period equal to the maximum sentence for their most serious offense, according to the Department of State Hospitals.

Gillis was arrested Sept. 5, 2014, after her father’s body was found in their home with multiple stab wounds and injuries to the head.

James Gillis was declared dead at the scene by first responders, according to officials.

The case is wrapping up after nearly three years of delays due to questions about Gillis’ mental competency to stand trial, and later her sanity at the time of the murder.

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Castaic Woman Placed In State Hospital For Murdering Father

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About Devon Miller

Devon Miller was born and raised in Santa Clarita. He joined KHTS Radio as a digital marketing intern in September of 2017, and later moved to news as a staff writer in December. Miller attended College of the Canyons and served as the Associated Student Government President. Miller is now News Director for KHTS, covering breaking news and politics across the Santa Clarita Valley.