Panel discussion at Fredonia to examine criminal justice, mental health issues

The very timely topic of mental health and the criminal justice system will be explored at a panel discussion, sponsored by the Department of Psychology on Wednesday, March 7, at 6:30 p.m., in McEwen Hall Room 202.

Experts in the field that include local staff who work in the corrections system and faculty members in the Department of Psychology and Criminal Justice program at Fredonia will serve on the panel. They will respond to questions raised by attendees.

Areas to be highlighted by panel members will include the plight of the mentally ill who are trying to access resources, what happens during the time people afflicted with a mental illness are incarcerated and what resources are available to them following their release.

Organizers note that recent shootings in Texas, Las Vegas and Florida have once again focused the nation’s attention on people who are mentally ill that can access guns and the balance between criminalizing people with mental health issues and protecting the public.

The panel discussion is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.