A detainee’s mental state has denied him the chance to prove his eligibility for parole.
This situation underscores challenges faced by the Correctional Service when addressing mental health needs of inmates with limited necessary resources, training, and capacity.
The detainee who had served portion of his sentence and scheduled to appear before parole board was unable to proceed with the process due to mental health complications stemming from marijuana consumption.
Acting Director of the Correctional Service, Albert Nalpini, explained that the detainee’s mental health issues hindered their parole consideration. “Unfortunately his mental health issues resulting from marijuana use contributed to the delay,” Nalpini said.
Nalpini emphasized that the Correctional Service is not equipped to handle mental health issues, as the department is focused primarily on addressing detainees sentenced for criminal activity.
“Our officers are not trained to manage mental health conditions caused by drug use, therefore all we can do is confine in their cells,” he explained.
Nalpini added that the former Minister of Justice had initiated a review of the mental health framework in collaboration with the Minister of Health, with a focus on revising legislation and building facilities specifically designed for people with mental health issues.
Meanwhile the Correctional Service is getting assistance from the Ministry of Health’s Mental Care Clinic to support detainees with mental health challenges.
Dr. Jimmy Obed, Manager for the Mental Health Clinic, clarified that mental health services are provided free of charge to everyone, including those in prison .
“Our team visits the Correctional Centre every Tuesday to conduct general health checks, and if we identify any alarming symptoms, we refer the individuals to other clinics for further assessments,” said Dr. Obed.
While those services are free, VBTC News understands that there are urgent cases where such service has to be sought from other providers where fees are required.
