STF mantém funcionamento de unidades psiquiátricas penais em MG

The Supreme Federal Court (STF), through Minister Flávio Dino, has authorized the continued operation and admission of patients at the Jorge Vaz Psychiatric and Judicial Hospital in Barbacena and the Medical and Pericial Support Center (Camp) in Ribeirão das Neves, both in Minas Gerais. This decision temporarily suspends a restriction previously imposed by the Minas Gerais Court of Justice (TJMG) that had prohibited new admissions. The units serve individuals with mental or psychosocial distress under judicial security measures, who are considered not criminally responsible but require psychiatric treatment.

The STF's ruling allows the facilities to function normally until adequate conditions are met for transitioning to a new care model. The Ministry of Public Prosecution had requested the suspension, arguing that the state lacks sufficient infrastructure to absorb all demands under the Judiciary's Anti-Asylum Policy, which favors treatment within the Psychosocial Care Network (Raps). Minister Dino highlighted that an immediate, generic closure could harm patients and their families, particularly those with limited socioeconomic resources.

This decision matters because it ensures the continuity of care for vulnerable individuals with mental health issues who are under judicial supervision, while a more structured transition plan is developed to comply with new policies.