My son's life was turned upside down due to an ignored mental health crisis, which led him to a tragic confrontation but fortunately, it was not fatal.  After years of enduring verbal and physical abuse from his girlfriend, their toxic relationship reached a boiling point. Yet, instead of receiving the help he desperately needed, the system failed him by treating him solely as a criminal.

This petition also highlights the case of Latarsha Sanders, Andrea Yates, Otty Sanchez and Lindsay Clancy, who faced similar challenges when mental health issues were not given the attention they required. These stories exemplify a broader systemic issue that threatens to undermine the integrity of our justice system. Mental competency and capacity should be evaluated using contemporary medical insights, especially in instances where the alleged offense may be influenced by untreated mental health conditions.

The current approach to mental health within the judicial process is harsh and outdated, often leading to the incarceration of individuals who require medical intervention, not imprisonment. This practice not only fails the individuals involved, but it also detracts from the efficacy and humanity of our judicial system. In the United States, approximately 20% of inmates in jail systems are suffering from serious mental health conditions, many of whom were arrested for behaviors resulting directly from their untreated illnesses.

True justice is not just about punishment; it is about understanding the circumstances that led to the offense and addressing the root causes. By treating mental health issues—such as psychosis—as medical emergencies, we are not excusing behavior, but rather insisting on a judicial system that recognizes the legitimacy of medical science and responds with a balanced approach of accountability and mercy.

We urge our state legislators and judicial bodies to adopt policies that include comprehensive mental health evaluations using modern medical practices. This includes recognizing psychosis and other mental health crises as key factors in legal defenses and ensuring there are robust diversion programs tailored for those whose offenses are symptomatic of deeper health issues.

By mobilizing this change, we can stop incarcerating the sick and start aligning our legal practices with medical realities. Sign this petition to demand a judicial system that is informed, fair, and just, one that truly values the health and safety of all its citizens.