Treatment via criminal conviction

A 34-year-old Massachusetts woman will finally be getting the treatment she needs for her schizophrenia. Unfortunately, she had to enter the forensic system to get it.

Denise Bonilla pleaded guilty to assault and battery in court on Friday. As a result, she is ordered to participate in a treatment plan devised by the state.

Doctor’s examinations of Bonilla say she’s a different person when on her medication.

It’s too bad Massachusetts doesn’t have assisted outpatient treatment, and that citizens like Bonilla have to commit a crime to get meaningful treatment.