5th Denial: Vernon Woman’s Ongoing Battle for Release from Psychiatric Hospital

Gabriel Hunter Gibson remains in a psychiatric hospital after her latest bid for release was denied. This marks her fifth appeal since being detained in 2018 for an attempted child abduction in 2016. On that day, she tried to grab a four-year-old boy on a bus, claiming he was her child until another passenger intervened.

In a recent ruling by the B.C. Court of Appeal, Justice W. Paul Riley emphasized that Gibson still poses a significant risk to public safety. This decision followed a review by the BC Review Board, which agreed that keeping her in the hospital was sensible given her history.

Gibson, now in her 40s, has struggled with mental illness since she was 18. Diagnosed with treatment-resistant schizoaffective disorder, among other issues, she exhibits severe delusions, believing she has children who recognize her as their mother. According to the Review Board, her condition has led to violent incidents, making her a challenge to manage, especially under stress.

A doctor evaluating her stated that without ongoing treatment, her mental state is unlikely to improve. During her appeal, Gibson expressed a desire to reintegrate into the community and noted she would seek psychiatric care if released. Interestingly, while she claimed to have overcome cannabis cravings, she mentioned a willingness to potentially return to methamphetamine use for clearer thinking.

Justice Riley pointed out that Gibson’s continued detention isn’t punishment but a necessary step for both her treatment and public protection. He also addressed her concerns that her time in the hospital exceeds the maximum jail sentence for her crime, clarifying that such a comparison fails to recognize the purpose behind her detention.

It’s crucial to note that Gibson’s issues are not isolated. Mental health conditions can impact individuals differently, and understanding their complexities is essential. A recent report from the World Health Organization states that 1 in 8 people worldwide suffer from mental health conditions. Awareness and support are vital in building a safer community while advocating for mental health treatment.

In summary, Gibson’s situation highlights the intricate balance of public safety and mental health care. As she navigates this challenging path, her case opens up discussions about mental illness and the systems in place to manage it.

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mental illness|Vernon|Court of Appeal