Clinton Man Pleads Insanity In Slaying
Judge accepted plea after two of three psychologists deemed defendant mentally ill during the July 2024 killings of his mother and brother.
By Rebecca Svoboda ·
Macomb County circuit Judge Jennifer Faunce accepted a not guilty by reason of insanity plea for Corey Deyshaun Cook, a 27-year-old Clinton Township resident. The ruling came last week following a review of psychiatric evaluations.
Two of three reports from psychologists concluded that Cook was insane and not criminally responsible for his actions. The incidents occurred in July 2024 at a Harper Avenue apartment. Cook fatally shot his mother, 49-year-old Yolanda Cook, and his brother, 31-year-old Arkollin Dleon Cook.
Cook’s attorney, Macomb prosecutors, and Judge Faunce agreed that Cook was mentally ill at the time of the offense. They determined he lacked the substantial capacity to appreciate the nature of his conduct or to conform his conduct to the law. This determination aligns with state legal standards for insanity pleas.
Robbie Lang, Cook’s attorney, called the outcome the absolute correct result. County Prosecutor Peter Lucido described the case as incredibly tragic, noting the loss of two lives and a family forever changed. Lucido stated that Cook had no prior history of contact with law enforcement before his behavior changed. The prosecutor also expressed deep concern about the need for long-term mental health treatment.
Family members indicated that Cook had never been in trouble and grew up normally. They began noticing a change in behavior about two years before the incident. Lang said the family discussed these changes with Cook but did not seek treatment because they did not expect such drastic behavior. Lang identified schizophrenia as part of the significant mental illness signs.
After shooting the victims on July 5, 2024, Cook surrendered to the Clinton Township Police Department. Police found Yolanda Cook inside the residence, where she was pronounced dead. Arkollin Cook was placed on life support and died within 10 days. Cook faced two counts of first-degree premeditated murder, which carry a penalty of life in prison without parole. He also faced assault with intent to commit first-degree murder and two felony gun possession charges.
A review hearing is scheduled for December 17. Judge Faunce is likely to order Cook held at the state Center for Forensic Psychiatry for an indefinite period for treatment. The case may eventually transfer to probate court. A GoFundMe page raised $3,150 of a $10,000 goal to cover funeral costs.
Source: The Macomb Daily
