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Sydney Psychiatrist Warns: Prisons for the Mentally Ill
20 Feb
Summary
- Rare killings by psychiatric patients predicted due to facility strain.
- Two patients allegedly escaped Cumberland Hospital under court orders.
- Health Minister orders urgent reviews of hospital security and care.
A prominent Sydney psychiatrist has voiced concerns that mental health facilities are being burdened with individuals diverted from the criminal justice system, creating conditions that could lead to rare, but foreseeable, violent outcomes. This situation is highlighted by recent incidents involving patients who allegedly escaped from Cumberland Hospital.
Two individuals, Mooniai Leaaetoa, 25, and Luke Peter Francis, 31, were reportedly under Section 19b orders, which allow for the diversion of mentally ill individuals to mental health facilities for assessment. Leaaetoa is accused of a fatal stabbing and two serious injuries in Merrylands. Francis allegedly absconded by overpowering a nurse and stealing her access card, and is later accused of killing two women during a police pursuit.
In response to these serious events, Health Minister Rose Jackson has initiated an urgent review into Cumberland Hospital's security protocols. NSW Health is also conducting a separate review into the specific care provided to Leaaetoa. These reviews aim to address systemic failures within the state's mental health system.
