"Red Bull Killer" Stephen Coffeen not guilty by reason of insanity, says Fla. judge

The case made national headlines after a doctor suggested the consumption of the energy drink Red Bull along with sleep deprivation contributed to Coffeen's temporary insanity.

Four doctors -- two hired by prosecutors, two by the defense -- all agreed: Stephen Coffeen lost touch with reality and was legally insane when he suffocated his elderly father  with a couch cushion two years ago, reports CBS affiliate WTSP.

Stephen's brother Thomas found their father's body. He says Stephen knew just what he was doing. Thomas pushed for a murder trial.

"This is not justice. Justice has not been done today," Thomas said, standing outside the Pinellas County Courthouse with a despondent look on his face as his wife sobbed nearby, reports the station.

Thomas says his brother was jealous of his success, and that led him to plan the murder of their father. He says he's also worried that if Stephen is released, he will come after him and his family.

But Judge Ley said the insanity case is remarkably clear-cut, reports the station.

"I have spent many many hours on this case. Reviewing it, thinking about it, considering it, looking at case law. And I have determined that I have no choice, because it is also my duty to follow the law," Ley said.

Stephen Coffeen will now head to Florida State Hospital, a mental hospital in Chattahoochee, northwest of Tallahassee and near the Georgia state line.

His attorneys say the killing was a momentary snap and that their client is already mentally well, which is a sign they may ask the judge to release him at his next hearing in December.

More on Crimesider
February 7, 2011 - Red Bull Murder Defense is "Crap," Says Fla. Victim's Son