Maurice and Lauren
Content Warning: These stories are about violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation and may include references to suicide or self-harming behaviours. They may contain graphic descriptions and strong language and may be distressing. Some narratives may be about First Nations people who have passed away. If you need support, please see Contact & support.
Maurice is in prison. He has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and epilepsy.
Maurice’s mother, Lauren, told the Royal Commission that the prison has denied her son medical attention.
‘When he asked a guard one day whether he could get medical care, the guard replied, “Haven't you got the memo mate? MTC”. Maybe Tomorrow Cunt.’
Lauren said the prison wouldn’t let him have the medication his psychiatrist prescribed.
Maurice’s lawyer lobbied prison authorities to give him the medication. They’ve since placed Maurice on a ‘substitute medication’ that Lauren said is ineffective.
‘Our concern was that [Maurice’s] inability to function mentally and emotionally in such a hostile environment would see him compromised, attacked, further unwell (suicidal from anxiety), and placed at substantial and increased risk.’
Lauren said the prison gives melatonin, rather than antipsychotics, to prisoners with schizophrenia.
‘Other dangerous inmates are not medically treated and place my son at increased risk. He lives one day at a time in total fear of his life. How is any person with an untreated disability expected to cope in one of the most challenging environments in existence?’
Lauren said the prison shows little concern for her son’s general health.
‘The food is nutritionally void. There is no opportunity to exercise. [Maurice] has put on over 20 kilos in three months.’
She said she knows of other inmates with untreated disabilities.
‘The stories are consistent with mine and are endless and appalling.’
Disclaimer: This is the story of a person who shared their personal experience with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability through a submission or private session. The names in this story are pseudonyms. The person who shared this experience was not a witness and their account is not evidence. They did not take an oath or affirmation before providing the story. Nothing in this story constitutes a finding of the Royal Commission. Any views expressed are those of the person who shared their experience, not of the Royal Commission.