Brian Scott Eng 1050-20 Writing Journal Assignment #3

Dr. Torrey's article is very informative. It is easy to see why there is such high crime rates in some states and why there is lower crime rates in states with laws that would mandate treatment for the mentally ill. It should be a requirement in all states to require treament for the mentally ill. In order to protect our citizen's safety, we must treat these people who do not know what they are doing so they do not committ any crimes. Mentally ill people committ many crimes, suicide, and should not be left on the street. It is not their faults completely though. The states refuse to spend money on these programs because they think they are expensive but in fact, they lose more money by not doing the programs. The costs of hospital fees associated with their crimes and suicides is more expensive. In the end, it is very important for the mental hospitals to accept all patients and get them off the streets. If they can accomplish that goal, suicides and crime rates will decrease. Dr. Torrey makes very valid points and his article is very persuasive to mandated treatment for the mentally ill.