Khalid Saeed was found in possession of a makeshift weapon near Millbrook Square, Grove, on December 9th of the previous year. The weapon consisted of a metal shaft attached to what appeared to be a champagne cork, which was taped together. Additionally, Saeed possessed two other knives, although no charges were made in connection to those blades.
The defendant, who suffers from paranoid schizophrenia, had two psychiatrists provide reports suggesting that he was unfit to plead in court due to his mental state. In June, a jury at Oxford Crown Court concluded that Saeed had indeed committed the alleged act, making him guilty of possessing a bladed article.
During his sentencing hearing on July 4th, it was revealed that Saeed had been admitted to a hospital from HMP Bullingdon. While in prison, he refused to take his medication and denied having any issues that required treatment. However, his condition has shown signs of improvement since his admission to a hospital in Dartford, Kent, in May.
Judge Recorder John Bate-Williams noted that Saeed had previously believed that a devil was controlling him. However, this belief has become intermittent since he began receiving treatment. Multiple psychiatrists submitted reports or letters recommending the imposition of a hospital order under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act, and a bed was made available for Saeed at the Willow Suite, where he is currently receiving treatment.
Recorder Bate-Williams declared that the statutory requirements had been met and issued an order under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act without restrictions. This allows Saeed to undergo treatment at a psychiatric hospital for a period of six months. After this time, he will be discharged unless the order is renewed. Either Saeed himself or his closest relative can apply to a Mental Health Tribunal for his discharge.
Saeed, who does not have a fixed address, appeared in court via video link from the ward where he is currently being treated. During the video, Saeed was seated in an armchair, with the voice of a nurse audible in the background. His barrister, Christopher Pembridge, emphasized the improvement in Saeed’s mental health since his hospital admission.
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