| Abstrakt: |
The introduction, in 1997, of the Crimes (Mental Impairment and Unfitness to be Tried) Act 1997 (Vic) marked a dramatic reform of the system governing the management of people found not guilty by reason of insanity in Victoria. Yet despite the major reforms introduced by the Act, there has been little empirical analysis and evaluation of its operation. This study redresses the lack of empirical knowledge by examining the socio-demographic, psychiatric and criminological characteristics of all individuals placed on an order under the Act and managed by forensic mental health services since its enactment. As the Act approaches its 20th year of operation and at a time when there is acute demand for forensic psychiatric sen/ices in Victoria, the study may provide a valuable resource to inform forensic mental health policy and practice in Victoria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
