Forensic Services

FORENSIC

Patients who are committed because of alleged serious criminal behavior are housed in the Las Vegas Medical Center's forensic unit. The unit is used for patients requiring:

Evaluation to determine if they are competent to stand trial
Treatment until such time as they are declared competent to stand trial
Observation so recommendations for sentencing can be developed for the court.

Legally, patient competency is determined based on three specific factors:

Does the person understand the nature and seriousness of the charges pending against him?

Can the person reasonably assist his attorney in preparing a defense?

Does the person understand the possible consequences he may face if found guilty?

Both female and male forensic units are available at the Las Vegas Medical Center. In addition, there is a program for the treatment of pedophilia (S.T.O.P.). Patients who suffer from alcohol or drug addiction in addition to mental illness can attend Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous groups.

Physically the forensic unit has three wings and a total of 72 beds. There are large areas with games, televisions and dining facilities. Patients are encouraged to participate in job oriented activities such as woodworking, ceramics and greenhouse maintenance as part of their individulized treatment plans. They also receive individual and group therapies with their psychologist, psychiatrist and social worker.

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