Monterey County acid attacker to remain in state hospital

A man who threw acid in a bicyclist’s face more than a decade ago will remain in a state mental facility, a Monterey County jury ruled Wednesday.

Sean Adams, 42, attacked an unsuspecting cyclist on the Monterey Recreational Trail in 2000 by throwing sulfuric acid in his face. Adams was found not guilty by reason of insanity and was committed to a state hospital.

Recently Adams petitioned the courts for his release back into the community, contesting that he no longer posed a danger to others. In court proceedings this week, two psychiatrists testified that Adams still suffers from a mental disorder that makes him a substantial danger to others.

Jurors concurred with the psychiatrists’ findings and determined Adams does still pose a substantial danger of physical harm to others. Judge Carrie Panette ordered that Adams remain in a state mental hospital for continued treatment.