A survey of the conditionally released forensic patient population in New South Wales

Objective: The purpose of this study was to describe the demographic and clinical variables of the conditionally released forensic patient population in New South Wales. Method: Data were gathered from 74 conditionally released forensic patients. Results: Of this population, 37% had committed homicides and 50% had committed serious violent offences (attempted murder, grievous bodily harm or robbery). Approximately two-thirds had their first admission to a psychiatric hospital before the age of 30. The majority (83%) of patients were diagnosed with schizophrenia and 55% had a history of substance use disorders; 24% were deemed to have been intoxicated at the time of the offence. Conclusions: Conditionally released forensic patients in NSW show similar characteristics to those in other jurisdictions. Areas identified for further evaulation are comorbid substance use and rehabilitation, longer term outcomes and the under representation of indigenous persons.