He obviously needed more treatment than he was getting. And thankfully the police thought to restrain him rather than shoot to kill. That makes a refreshing change.

Last edited Sat Dec 6, 2014, 11:12 PM - Edit history (1)

The issue here is that while Mr. Williams was determined to have mental health problems, the VA can only go with what they see when he presents himself for treatment. Our hospital has a very caring, proactive psych department and will hospitalize any vet that appears to be a danger to themselves or others at the time they see him/her, with or without their consent (yes, it's easy to get a federal court order to that affect. A 30 day observation period is not uncommon). Mr. Williams, no doubt, seemed stable when last seen by his psych-provider and he went on his way with an appointment made for a follow-up when he left along with appropriate medication for his condition(s) e.g. anti-depressants/anxiety such is used in the civilian world. The VA will keep a close eye on marginal cases (frequent social worker visits), but it would impossible to monitor every MH vet patient. This event is not the VA's fault from the information that I see. Frankly, it's the same as outside the VA. There's no guarantee when they walk out the door...

trying to speculate the black hole of his mind.