GBMI is more a symbolic gesture than an effective reform of the system for mentally ill offenders.

Question

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GBMI (Guilty But Mentally Ill) is a verdict option available in some states that allows mentally ill offenders to be found guilty but also acknowledges their mental illness. However, it has been criticized as more of a symbolic gesture than a meaningful reform because it doesn't always result in treatment or rehabilitation for the offender, and the penalties are often similar to those of regular guilty verdicts. Therefore, it is considered more of a symbolic gesture to acknowledge the issue of mental illness in the criminal justice system rather than an effective reform.

GBMI Is More a Symbolic Gesture Than an Effective Reform