New Books Network Edward L. Jones III, "Medication, Mental Illness, and Murder: What Really Killed the Crespi Twins?" (Rowman & Littlefield, 2025)
May 6, 2025
Edward L. Jones III, author of "Medication, Mental Illness, and Murder," dives into the tragic case of the Crespi twins, exploring how antidepressants may have influenced their father's actions. He discusses the dark implications surrounding SSRI medications and their potential to exacerbate mental illness. Jones also reflects on his shift from advertising to writing, driven by personal loss, and shares Kim Crespi's journey of trauma and eventual forgiveness. The conversation raises critical questions about psychiatric accountability and the intersection of mental health and societal issues.
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SSRIs and Chemical Imbalance Myth
- There is no scientific evidence that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain.
- SSRIs often show no more effectiveness than a placebo in treating depression symptoms.
The Crespi Twins Tragedy
- David Crespi killed his five-year-old twin daughters during a hide and seek game while his wife was at a haircut appointment.
- After the murders, he calmly called 911 and admitted to the killings, revealing he was on antidepressants.
SSRIs Risks in Youth
- Be cautious about prescribing SSRIs to young people due to increased risks of suicide and violence.
- Awareness about dangerous side effects is crucial to prevent harm, especially in adolescents.