Why are criminally insane people allowed to walk around New York City?

[Anonymous]

It’s the biggest city in the US, and it’s in a deep decline. Very shocking stuff.

[normalice]

Well, they at least took his business away so maybe he'll stay in Florida. Let them figure out why having a criminally insane con artist isn't as funny as he makes it out to be. But in general there is no law to him walking around - it is the price of freedom, I suppose.

[NamerOfStars]

Because "criminal insanity" doesn't exist, and we're a civilized country that doesn't put people in prison because we don't like the way they think.

[BuffTaco]

What are they supposed to do? Drive around? Be executed? Metamorph into lizard people?

[Asker]

Be institutionalized.

[BuffTaco]

Could you elaborate a little? I've heard that term used to mean very different things...

[Asker]

Have the police or something put them into mental institutions for the long term.

[BuffTaco]

I assumed that much. What kind of institution do you mean? One that tries to rehabilitate so they can be released and walk around as "legally insane" or someghing, or one that's just a shitty American prison without the release dates, appeals, or parole?

[slatyb]

Good question. It's very difficult to force someone into treatment and then to keep them taking their medication.

[RebelinSteel]

I think that’s been true in America for decades

[Akam93]

One word. Democrats.

[BarryLiverstone]

What does it mean?