Mental

Compassion on Wheels: Miami’s Innovative Approach to Assisting Homeless Individuals with Mental Health Needs

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Miami, FL — As dawn breaks over Miami, a dedicated team from the Lazarus Project navigates the bustling streets of downtown and Northwest Miami. They seek out those struggling on the margins of society, including people like Douglas, who was recently found in dire straits – hungry, affected by lice, and in desperate need of medication. Natalie Gild, a Lazarus Project manager, describes Douglas’ initial condition as aggressive and uncommunicative. “Over the past two or three months, there’s been a transformation. He now engages in conversation, shows happiness, and greets us with a smile,” Gild … Read more

Jury Selection Begins in Trial of Austin Officer Charged in 2019 Shooting of Man Experiencing Mental Health Crisis

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Austin, Texas – Jury selection is set to begin Monday in the trial of Christopher Taylor, an officer with the Austin Police Department, who is facing charges in a 2019 shooting incident. The trial, which has garnered significant attention, centers on the fatal shooting of Mauris DeSilva, a local scientist, during what police described as a mental health crisis. Taylor, who has been under scrutiny since the incident, was originally charged with murder. However, recent updates in the case have seen a shift to a lesser felony of deadly conduct. The decision to modify the … Read more

Inmate in Mental Health Crisis Fatally Suffocates Cellmate Using Mattress Within an Hour of Sharing Cell, Lawsuit Claims

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St. Louis, MO – A federal lawsuit now brings attention to a tragic event at the St. Louis City Justice Center, where a man suffering a mental health crisis allegedly killed his cellmate within an hour of their confinement. The incident, which occurred last year, raises significant concerns about the treatment and housing of inmates with mental health issues. According to the lawsuit filed by the victim’s family, Daniel Wilson, who had a history of mental illness, was placed in a cell with a new inmate, despite having exhibited unstable behavior prior to the incident. … Read more

Mother in Morgan County to Undergo Additional Mental Evaluation Following Child’s Fatal Stabbing

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Hartselle, AL — A troubling case unfolds in Morgan County as Jennifer Long, a mother accused of fatally stabbing her 8-year-old son, may not stand trial due to mental health concerns. Long, who is also charged with the stabbing of her father on the same day, is currently under a second order for mental evaluation, as determined by Judge Jennifer Howell on Monday. The decision for a further mental health assessment followed an initial evaluation deemed “unusual” by Howell. The evaluation is set to take place at the Alabama Department of Mental Health clinic in … Read more