When lack of due process intersects mental health and “grave disabilities,” we create a situation in which freedoms are circumvented in the most patronizing of ways.
It’s for their own good…
Who can argue with that!
Until it’s a police officer making the decision without the expertise to do so…
Until it’s you or someone you love being involuntarily committed…
Until you realize we’ve made it too easy to hand over our freedom - and disparities persist with marginalized groups..,
How is this okay???
Dec 28, 2024 | 9:00 PM
San Diego News Tribune
More people can be held against their will under new law taking effect Jan. 1
Imagine standing on a street corner and trying to decide whether someone has a severe, moderate or mild substance use disorder, whether their medical condition is serious and likely to deteriorate, or whether their personal safety is so compromised that they are likely to die if they are not detained.
Such weighty decisions are usually the domain of trained medical professionals, but starting Jan. 1, rank-and-file law enforcement officers and other designated first responders must begin making these calls throughout San Diego County due to a new law that expands the definition of grave disability.
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