Characteristics and disposition of persons found not guilty by reason of insanity in New York State, 1971-1976

In order to develop an empirical profile of persons acquitted by reason of insanity from which policy could be developed, the authors studied all acquittals in New York State from 1971-1976. During this period 196 men and 29 women were found not guilty by reason of insanity. In contrast to adults admitted to state correctional facilities, the study group contained proportionately more persons who were white and older. The most frequent crimes for which subjects were tried were homicide, assault, and robbery. Most victims were acquaintances of the defendants. By 1976, 67 persons had been discharged after hospitalization ranging from 1 to 1,235 days. These defendants are still being followed after their return to the community.