Title: California Department of State Hospitals - Patton
Headings: Department of State Hospitals - Patton
Department of State Hospitals - Patton
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Content: These commitments last for one year and may be renewed annually by the court. The focus of treatment for this population involves helping the patient increase their ability to safely and effectively manage the symptoms associated with their mental illness. Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (PC 1026)
Persons judged by the court to be guilty of a crime, but not guilty because they were insane at the time of the crime are committed to a state hospital for treatment for a period equal to the maximum sentence for their most serious offense, subordinate offenses and enhancements. The ultimate goal is for the patient to reintegrate into the community with an increased awareness of their role within society and to take responsibility for personal and public safety. The focus of treatment for this population involves helping the patient development insight into their mental illness and how the symptoms of mental illness led to the commission of a crime. Further, the patient must also demonstrate the ability to safely and effectively manage the symptoms associated with their mental illness. Sexually Violent Predators (Welfare and Institutions Code 6602 & 6604)
Individuals who are convicted of a legislatively defined set of sex offenses who complete their prison sentences are evaluated by DSH or independent evaluators. Those that meet Sexually Violent Predator (SVP) criteria receive a probable cause hearing and are placed in a state hospital pending full commitment (WIC 6602). A trial confirming SVP status can result in commitment to a state hospital for an indeterminate period (WIC 6604). SVPs can petition annually for release, be recommended for outpatient status by DSH practitioners, or be determined to no longer meet SVP criteria.