Patient freed to attack again
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A violent schizophrenic indecently assaulted two pensioners after being released into the community less than a year after a court ordered he should be held indefinitely in a psychiatric hospital.
Nelson Anya, 37, described as "a danger to the public in general and women in particular", was sent to a secure psychiatric unit by an Old Bailey judge yesterday, again with instructions that he must he held "without limit of time". Judge Beaumont said: "It goes without saying ... the public expect great care to be taken. He ... will not be allowed into the community until a mental health review tribunal has considered his case."
Anya admitted assaulting the women, one 65, the other 70, near or in their homes in north-west London on two separate occasions.
At the time of both offences, Anya had failed to attend outpatient hospital appointments and take his medication, the court heard. In September 1991 he was detained under the Mental Health Act, with a Section 41 restriction that he should be held indefinitely. However, he was released in July of the following year. Some time later he complained of hallucinations and was given medication which kept him stable until he began missing the hospital appointments.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments