DeWine calls for change at state psychiatric hospitals
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine's 17-point plan to address gun violence in the state following the recent mass shooting includes freeing up space at state psychiatric hospitals for people threatening violence or suicide.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine's 17-point plan to address gun violence in the state following the recent mass shooting includes freeing up space at state psychiatric hospitals for people threatening violence or suicide.
The Republican governor has called on lawmakers to create a process that would allow courts to send people who are facing nonviolent charges to less restrictive treatment centers.
The Dayton Daily News reports about 97% of the beds in the state's six psychiatric hospitals are occupied, including beds taken by individuals facing nonviolent criminal charges.
DeWine's plan also pledges to back a red flag law, allowing police or family members to seek a court order to seize weapons from those deemed a risk to themselves or others.
Those individuals could be sent to a state psychiatric hospital if beds are available.
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