Criminal Courts & The Mentally Ill
The Charlotte Observer ran a piece today highlighting the lack
of resources for mentally ill children in North Carolina. The article does not
specifically address the criminal justice system, but does briefly mention how
they often intersect. However, any criminal defense attorney in Mecklenburg
county will tell you there is a correlation between lack of services available
for mentally ill patients and criminal behavior.
The article mentions the effects of budget cuts on available
services for mentally ill children. With very few places for patients to stay, many
are forced into environments that pose a high risk to family members and often
result in criminal conduct. The young adult is then taken into custody and a
criminal case ensues.
Mecklenburg County does have mental health court. Similar to
drug courts, defendants are placed on probation, have probation officers and are
required to come to court regularly to speak to the judge about their progress.
Many find success in this structured setting. However, some individuals have
such severe diagnoses, they require secured placement. This does not exist. Most
placement facilities are forced to have
a revolving door policy; New Hope of
Carolinas is a short term facility- young adults are admitted, once they are
stabilized, they must be released.
It is an ongoing issue I see regularly in both criminal courts
and incompetency/guardianship proceedings. Finding solutions for these issues is an
ongoing effort. I'm glad the Observer chose to highlight the issue today.
Mecklenburg Criminal Attorney Updates Provide by The Law Office of Carilyn Ibsen PLLC
(888)543-2427
Labels: mental health court
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