Related Experiment Videos
Treatment Refusal in Arizona's Jail-Based Competency to Stand Trial Restoration Programs
Joseph D Bloom1, Scott E Kirkorsky2
1Dr. Bloom is Clinical Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Banner University Medical Center Phoenix, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix. Dr. Kirkorsky is a Forensic Psychiatry Fellow at the University of California-Davis. bloomj@ohsu.edu.
Summary
Arizona
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychiatry
- Correctional Healthcare
- Mental Health Law
Background:
- Arizona implemented jail-based restoration to competency programs in 2003.
- These programs are now standard statewide, reducing referrals to the Arizona State Hospital.
- This shift necessitates examining treatment refusal and forced medication within jail settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe Arizona's statewide jail-based competency restoration programs.
- To analyze Arizona's legal framework regarding treatment refusal for detainees.
- To explore the application of forced medication and override procedures in jail-based restoration.
Main Methods:
- Review of Arizona statutes and case law on treatment refusal.
- Description of jail-based competency restoration programs in a large county jail.
- Analysis of legal mechanisms for determining forced treatment in jail settings.
Main Results:
- Jail-based programs are now the primary method for competency restoration in Arizona.
- One large county jail lacks a clear legal process for approving forced treatment outside civil commitment.
- Specific override procedures for incompetent detainees in jail settings require careful consideration.
Conclusions:
- Arizona's jail-based competency restoration model is widespread.
- Legal frameworks for forced medication in jails are complex and may be insufficient.
- Prudence is advised when applying override procedures for incompetent detainees in jail environments.