Andorra Prison Debates Viability of Psychiatric Module with One Inmate
Release of one patient leaves a single murderer in the unit, prompting staff concerns over high costs, isolation, and resource strain at Centre.
Key Points
- Young burglar with drug-linked mental issues released after two years, showing improvement but relapse risk.
- Togolese man remains, convicted of employer's brutal murder; France declined specialized placement.
- Staff cite high staffing demands and inmate isolation as threats to module's sustainability.
- Past shared activities with other inmates trialled, but future uncertain.
The recent release of one of two inmates from Andorra's prison psychiatric module has sparked debate among staff at the Centre Penitenciari de la Comella about its viability with just a single occupant.
The freed inmate, a young man admitted under security measures about two years ago, had been held for a spate of break-ins at businesses, mainly in Andorra la Vella, along with public property damage. His case reportedly stemmed from early drug addictions that authorities linked to severe mental health issues. After showing improvement during his stay, he was discharged just over a week ago. However, prison officials remain cautious, noting his history of prior releases followed by relapse.
This leaves behind the module's sole remaining resident: a Togolese man convicted of the brutal murder of his former employer in an Encamp apartment in the Vila area. He faced additional charges in the case, which underscored the urgent need for dedicated mental health facilities. Andorran authorities initially sought placement for him in a specialised French centre, but France declined. As a result, the prison repurposed space to create the module, responding to demands from international committees. It has now housed just two inmates since opening.
Staff question whether maintaining the unit for one person justifies the resources required, especially amid occasional staffing shortages elsewhere in the facility. The module demands a disproportionately high minimum team compared to other areas. Beyond logistics, concerns centre on the inmate's isolation: prolonged solitary confinement, with limited contact beyond guards and support workers, raises doubts about effective rehabilitation or treatment.
Past efforts have included inviting "ordinary" inmates for short shared periods, but sustainability remains uncertain as the situation evolves.
Original Sources
This article was aggregated from the following Catalan-language sources: