Mental experts testify in Fla. teen beating trial

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) -- Mental health experts are testifying about the deep impact of trauma on the psyche of a Florida teenager on trial for a brutal attack that nearly killed a 15-year-old girl.

The defense experts say the suicide of 17-year-old Wayne Treacy's brother triggered post-traumatic stress disorder that affected his emotions, personality and made his once-excellent grades nosedive. Treacy is claiming innocence by reason of insanity in the March 2010 kicking and stomping attack on Josie Lou Ratley.

The defense case is continuing Thursday, a day after the prosecution rested.

Ratley suffered permanent brain injuries after the attack. It happened after the two exchanged a series of vulgar and insulting text messages. In one of them Ratley made a reference to Treacy's dead brother.

Treacy faces 50 years in prison if convicted.

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