Why Did a Psychiatric Patient Get Released Before Attacking a Tourist?

A troubling incident at Macy's Herald Square has raised questions about New York's mental health system. A woman, recently released from a psychiatric facility, allegedly stabbed a tourist while she was changing her baby in a bathroom. The attacker, Kerri Aherne, claimed voices in her head told her to kill. The mental health system in New York is under scrutiny. Doctors and insiders say the system pushes for quick releases. This is because keeping patients costs a lot of money. The state has to pay for housing them. Releasing patients makes it seem like the facilities are doing a good job. Aherne had been in a state-run psychiatric center for a year. She was moved to transitional housing before the attack. This housing is supposed to be supervised, but not very well. A source said the transitional housing had a broken door for two years. No one fixed it. Mayor Adams said the attack should never have happened. He wants better evaluations before releasing patients. He also warned the next administration not to undo these efforts. Stephen Eide, an expert on mental health, said high costs and lack of beds are big problems. New York can't bill Medicaid for psychiatric beds. This puts extra pressure on the system. Gov. Hochul expressed sadness about the attack. The state Office of Mental Health said they follow all laws. They also said confidentiality laws prevent them from discussing the case. Joseph Giacalone, a retired NYPD sergeant, questioned why there's no accountability. He asked why psychologists and psychiatrists aren't held responsible for their decisions. This incident highlights the flaws in the mental health system. It shows the need for better supervision and accountability. The system must ensure the safety of both patients and the public.