‘The Only Demon That Day’: Louisiana Judge Rips Man Claiming Insanity After Stabbing Black Grandfather Who Fought For His Life Despite ‘Weakened’ State, Sentences Him to Life Without Parole

A suburban New Orleans man who ambushed his neighbor and stabbed him at least 16 times feigned mental illness in the hopes of raising an insanity defense, saying he was a “son of God” and needed to kill “a demon.” Jerry Gelpi, 42, was convicted of murder on Oct. 9 after his ruse fell apart in the face of overwhelming evidence.   “Mr. Gelpi, you’re going where you deserve to be,” 24th Judicial District Court Judge Frank Brindisi told him while handing down a life sentence for first-degree murder without parole. “You accused this man of being a demon. You were the only demon that day.” Gelpi, who authorities say had a history of brandishing knives and faking mental illness, was also fined $100,000. Charles Davis (left) was fatally stabbed his neighbor Jerry Gelpi (right). Credit: Family Photo/Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office) On Feb. 8, 2021, Charles Davis was recovering from a severe bout with COVID-19 and was in a weakened state, having lost 75 pounds after three months in the hospital, when Gelpi entered his Jefferson, Louisiana apartment, with a knife. The 68-year-old was attacked at the entrance to his bathroom, and though there were signs of a struggle — the...