Informative, educational and interesting. These words aptly describe a seminar on Forensic Psychiatry and the role of Mental Health in the Criminal Justice system which was organised by the International American University College Medicine (IAUCOM) in association with the University of Kentucky (department of Psychiatry), last Friday at the college campus in Vieux-Fort.
The seminar was addressed by Dr. Timothy Allen, director of Forensic Psychiatry, St. Claire Counseling and the University of Kentucky. Dr. Allen is also a part-time associate professor at the UK Department of Psychiatry and a member of several committees, and is involved in various scholarly researches.
Faculty members of IAU in attendance included, Dean of Basic Sciences, Dr. Naser; Director of Clinical Affairs, Dr. Manish Nair; and President , Mr.K.G. Manmadhan Nair. Also in attendance were students of IAU and members of the general public.
In addressing the large and appreciative gathering which showed profound interest in the event, Dr. Allen, an extremely revered scholar in his area of study, drew reference to persons charged with murder in countries such as America and England and being freed, which subsequently led to some laws in these countries being changed.
He stressed the importance of medical opinions in cases of murder and what doctors need to look for in an accused when giving their expert opinion.
And from the feedback from the gathering it was quite obvious that they had their knowledge on the bond between laws and Psychiatry broaden.
After the speaker’s address there was an open forum which gave participants an opportunity to ask any question on the topic and seek clarification on matters they did not fully understand. Such a forum generated much interest among participants who asked some very interesting questions.

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