Subscribe..
JAIL MATTERS
[Welland Tribune, 28 May 1897]
Arrival- Laura Petrie, insane-sent in by P.M. Logan of Niagara Falls
The jail officials thought they had had bad cases of insanity before, but that of Mrs. Petrie is one of the most difficult that has ever come under their jurisdiction. The woman weighs nearly 250 lbs and is phenomenally strong. It took three men to bring her to prison, and it takes that number to handle her here. It is to be regretted that such cases as hers should be placed in an institution devoted to criminals, and the law is surely defective that sends her here. In England and the United States persons charged with insanity are, we believe, examined at once by a doctor and taken direct to the asylum. Some such systems as this should be inaugurated in Canada. These people are not criminals, and besides that, there are no facilities in jails for treating such charges. This is the fourth commitment for insanity recently, and if they continue as frequently, better accommodations will be needed to be provided for their care while remaining here for transfer.
Add A Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.