NCJ Number
80444
Journal
British Journal of Criminology Volume: 21 Issue: 4 Dated: (October 1981) Pages: 335-341
Date Published
1981
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The pattern, circumstances, and implications of remands in custody for psychiatric reports in Hong Kong are examined.
Abstract
Since its opening in 1977, Hong Kong's Lai Chi Kok Reception Center has served as a holding prison for unconvicted males on remand. The psychiatric observation unit, established in 1978, accepts all court referrals for psychiatric assessment. The study sample consists of all 607 males remanded for psychiatric assessment from April 1, 1978, through March 31, 1980. Clinical data were examined, along with the police summary of the offense, criminal record, court dossier, and the medical psychological and probation officer's reports. About 47 percent of the remands were recommended for psychiatric management, and the courts followed these recommendations in about 89 percent of the cases. Offenses against the person were involved in most of the remanded cases, with sex offenses being involved in 23.4 percent of the referrals. Evidence suggests that an increasing number of defendants are being remanded in custody for the sole purpose of psychiatric assessment and that a substantial proportion do not subsequently receive a sentence of imprisonment. When a psychiatric assessment is clearly in order, remand in custody should be avoided unless a special circumstance exists; such as, a defendant has no fixed abode, has broken bail, or has committed a serious offense. Tabular data and 13 references are provided.