NCJ Number
105298
Date Published
1987
Length
92 pages
Annotation
This study examines current procedures for identifying and treating mentally impaired inmates of New York State prisons and recommends ways to improve these programs and procedures.
Abstract
Beginning in September 1985, Correctional Association staff visited the State's four reception/classification centers, maximum security institutions which have psychiatric satellite units, a maximum-security facility without such a unit, and the Central New York Psychiatric Center (the forensic facility for sentenced inmates). Interviews were conducted with appropriate State officials, mentally impaired inmates, correction officers, experts, ex-offenders, and offender families. The assessment of the current system notes problems with reception and classification, psychiatric satellite units, intermediate care programs, and the Central New York Psychiatric Center. General problem areas pertain to chronically mentally ill inmates, correction officer training, security staff, and special housing units. Procedures for identifying and treating mentally-retarded and learning-disabled prisoners are also evaluated. The analysis of postrelease services focuses on parole, vocational rehabilitation, and community service providers. Seventeen recommendations address the identified problems. 41 footnotes.