Three major aspects of mental retardation and criminal justice are examined: myths frequently associated with the relationship of mental retardation and criminality; mistreatment of the mentally retarded offender in the criminal justice system; and the perils of reform in the field of mental retardation and criminal justice. (Author)

Results of a survey of state attorneys general (N=46) found that, with few exceptions, identification of persons with mental retardation in criminal justice is neither systematic nor probable. Protections lie in statutes pertaining to mental illness rather than to mental retardation. (Author/DB)

This narrative describes the case of Richard Lapointe, a man with Dandy-Walker syndrome (a congenital brain malformation resulting in a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid in the skull), who was accused of homicide. The questionable practices of the police in acquiring a confession are recounted. The narrative discusses the court appeals process and…