3 Charged in Psychiatric Patient’s Death After 6 Years

Psychiatric Institute Employees Indicted in Patient’s Death

Washington D.C. – Three former employees of the Psychiatric Institute of Washington have been indicted for criminal negligence in the death of a patient, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced Wednesday. The charges stem from an incident that occurred six years ago, a delay Pirro acknowledged is frustrating but emphasized her commitment to pursuing justice now.

Charges Detail Criminal Negligence in Patient’s Demise

The indictment charges the former employees with criminal negligent homicide, a serious offense carrying a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Pirro explained that the patient’s death was a direct result of the defendants’ negligence, stating, “The death or his dying is a result of their negligence.” Evidence, including video footage showing the patient was breathing when staff arrived, will be presented at trial to support the prosecution’s case.

“The concept that someone should not be responsible if they’re 15 or 16 years old because their pre-frontal lobe is not developed is insanity. And the public is paying for it.”

Accountability and the Age of Criminal Responsibility

During her remarks, Pirro also addressed the broader issue of accountability, particularly concerning young offenders. She expressed strong disagreement with the idea that age should exempt individuals from responsibility for their actions. “The concept that someone should not be responsible if they’re 15 or 16 years old because their pre-frontal lobe is not developed is insanity,” Pirro stated. She called on the D.C. Council to lower the age of criminal accountability, arguing that the public bears the cost of such leniency.

Pirro noted that her office can currently handle cases involving 16 and 17-year-olds for serious crimes like murder, robbery, sexual assault, or armed burglary under Title 16. However, she believes this threshold needs to be re-evaluated to ensure justice for victims and safety for the community.

ATV Incidents Highlight Dangers on D.C. Streets

The U.S. Attorney also highlighted other troubling cases, including incidents involving all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on city streets. She described a recent case where adults on ATVs struck two children on bicycles in a bike lane, leaving one child unconscious with a brain bleed. Pirro vowed to pursue aggravated assault charges in such cases, viewing ATVs used recklessly as dangerous weapons that can inflict severe harm.

“When we catch them, when MPD catches them, I’m going to fight to get them because it’s not just an OAG charge of, you know, driving an ATV. To me, it’s being armed with a dangerous weapon and injuring a child, aggravated assault,” Pirro declared.

Addressing Staffing and Rising Crime Rates

When questioned about staffing levels, Pirro acknowledged the need for more personnel to manage the caseload. She revealed that her office is currently handling a surge in cases and is virtually prosecuting most matters. Despite these challenges, her team is working diligently to address the increasing crime statistics, which some predict could triple in certain areas.

Pirro emphasized her commitment to securing the necessary resources and staff to effectively prosecute cases. “Do I need more staff? Of course I do. We had a surge where right now as a result of the surge and the fact that I am virtually prosecuting everything,” she said. Her office is focused on ensuring they have the capacity to handle the predicted rise in criminal activity.

Looking Ahead: Justice for the Victim

The indictment marks a significant step forward in a case that has remained unresolved for six years. U.S. Attorney Pirro’s determination to prosecute signals a renewed focus on accountability for serious offenses. As the legal process unfolds, the community will be watching closely to see how this case progresses and what it means for patient care standards and criminal justice in the District of Columbia.

Source: Psychiatric patient death: US Attorney Jeanine Pirro announces charges against 3 people (YouTube)