Arabic version: إيان بروك يُحكم عليه بالسجن مدى الحياة بسبب وفاة أخيه بالتبني

Ian Brooke, a 24-year-old man from Broome, will remain in prison after being found not guilty of killing his foster brother on account of mental impairment. A special Supreme Court hearing revealed that Brooke suffers from a psychotic disorder and fatally stabbed his 27-year-old foster brother in November 2023. According to ABC News, the court described the killing as “brutal” and noted that it occurred in the presence of other family members, including children.

Justice Peter Quinlan issued a custody order for the duration of Brooke’s life, which will be evaluated periodically by the Mental Impairment Review Tribunal. The court heard that Brooke believed his foster brother was a devil who intended to kill him, a delusion stemming from his diagnosed schizophrenia.

During the proceedings, two psychiatrists recommended that Brooke should be placed in a secure mental health facility. However, the court was informed that suitable mental health services are largely unavailable. The Franklin Centre, the only secure hospital in Western Australia, has limited capacity and a significant waitlist. Alternatives, such as the Bennett Brook Disability Justice Centre, were deemed inadequate due to the lack of acute mental health support.

Justice Quinlan expressed concern over the inability to provide appropriate treatment and support for Brooke within the current prison system. He stated, “I am bound to conclude that the only order I can lawfully make is a custody order,” emphasizing the need for a solution that aligns with legal principles while addressing Brooke’s mental health needs. The timeline for the Mental Impairment Review Tribunal’s evaluation of Brooke’s case remains uncertain.