title: Prosecuting psychiatric inpatients--where is the thin blue line?
abstract: Violence by psychiatric inpatients is under-reported and the involvement of the police is limited. No research has specifically investigated the views of the police force in this area. Ten senior police officers were interviewed using a semi-structured format to elucidate their views. A thematic analysis of the results highlighted training needs, and concerns around the public interest and evidential tests where the mentally ill are concerned. However, there was also a clear willingness to attend incidents and support the individuals involved. Possible sources of bias are considered. Issues of policy for psychiatric hospitals are noted as are victim-related factors.
authors.affiliation: Rampton Hospital, Retford, Nottinghamshire. Adrian.brown@nottshc.nhs.uk
authors.forename: Adrian R
authors.initials: AR
authors.lastname: Brown
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001290:Attitude; D004739:England; D005555:Forensic Psychiatry / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006778:Hospitals, Psychiatric / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D007297:Inpatients / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence* / Q000523:psychology; D008297:Male; D028642:Persons with Psychiatric Disorders / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D008875:Middle Aged; D016495:Police; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014754:Violence / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*