THE EDITOR, Sir:
THIS IS in response to the article "To be released after 3 years in jail - Weeping father refuses to take charge of son", which brings a very critical and pervasive problem in Jamaica to light.
What is to be done with individuals who commit crimes and are found mentally unfit to stand trial by the courts? Are they to be incarcerated and forgotten within the prison system? Is the correctional institution the most beneficial system for that population? What of rehabilitation and therapeutic settings?
We need to be more informed about mental illnesses. As I understand it schizophrenia is a thought disorder that is incurable, but the diagnosed individual may be taught how to manage the illness with the assistance of psychotropic medication and therapy.
If we are able to understand the implications of mental illness and the relationship to crime, I think we would be able to create appropriate infrastructure to accommodate these individuals while receiving treatment. They are in need of psychiatric care and proper preparation for transitioning out to the society.
However, release would be determined by the treatment team and the courts. Hence individuals like Mr. Murray would feel less fearful and probably more supportive of an individual who has undergone appropriate treatment and legal processing.
I am etc.,
NORMADELLE STERN WHITTLE
E-mail:
normadelle@yahoo.com
Stone Mountain, GA, USA
Via Go-Jamaica
