Developmentally Disabled Persons in the Criminal Justice System (From Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology, P 209-222, 1986, William J Curran, et al, eds. -- See NCJ-110591)

• NCJ Number: 110600
• Author(s): M Kindred; B D Sales
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 14 pages
• Sale Source: F A Davis Co
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The interactions between developmentally disabled persons and the criminal justice system raises complex issues, both because of the variety and the extent of disabilities and because of the many stages and procedures involved in the criminal justice system.

Abstract

Each interaction of an accused offender with a criminal justice official may be affected by the fact that the person is developmentally disabled. Problems arise during arrest, police screening, diversion, the interrogation process, and the prosecutorial phase. Additional issues arise with respect to determinations of competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and diminished capacity in developmentally disabled defendants. The sentencing and treatment of developmentally disabled offenders also raise issues for the criminal justice system. The broad issue facing the criminal justice system is whether it can and should accommodate the diversity of capabilities, difficulties, and needs represented by developmentally disabled persons. This accommodation can succeed only through the full use of the expertise of professionals with training and experiences in the developmental disabilities area. These professionals should assist in the development of standards and rehabilitation programs, in training criminal justice officials, and in the practical implementation of programs for developmentally disabled offenders. 90 references.