The Daily The Sunday Read: 'Why Was Joshua Held for More Than Two Years for Someone Else’s Crimes?'
Aug 7, 2022
Journalist Robert Kolker, known for his work on severe mental illness and complex court cases, dives into the harrowing tale of Joshua Spriestersbach. He explores how homelessness and mental illness led to Joshua serving over two years in jail for someone else's crimes. The discussion highlights systemic failures in justice and mental health care, the tragic cycle of incarceration for individuals with mental health issues, and the pressing need for reform. Kolker's insights shed light on the deep injustices faced by the most vulnerable in society.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Joshua's Plight
- Joshua Spriestersbach, a homeless man with schizophrenia, was arrested in 2017 while waiting for food.
- He was mistakenly identified and spent years in jail and a psychiatric hospital.
Mental Health Crisis
- Deinstitutionalization and inadequate mental healthcare led to jails becoming de facto mental health facilities.
- Medication alone cannot solve the complex challenges of severe mental illness.
Systemic Failure
- Hospital staff failed to verify Joshua's identity through basic checks like fingerprints or photos.
- They prioritized following court orders over investigating the discrepancies in his case.