UPDATE: Major changes are urgently needed to protect mental health patients and the community following two shocking escapes from Cumberland Hospital in New South Wales, resulting in three deaths. The incidents have sparked an immediate security review by NSW officials after it was revealed that the individuals involved fled the facility just days apart.
On February 8, 2023, Luke Peter Francis, a 31-year-old involuntary patient, escaped from Cumberland, Australia’s largest mental health facility, before allegedly leading police on a dangerous car chase that ended in tragedy. He crashed into a vehicle in Camden South on February 25, 2023, killing Lee Casuscelli, 60, and her passenger Maureen Crosland, 84. Francis is now facing aggravated dangerous driving charges and is due to appear in court on February 26, 2023.
Less than 24 hours earlier, another patient, Setefano Mooniai Leaaetoa, 25, absconded and is accused of a stabbing spree that left one person dead and two others injured in Merrylands. Leaaetoa reportedly fled from a health transfer vehicle while being moved to Westmead Hospital. He has since been charged with murder and attempted murder.
Mental health advocates are calling for immediate reform, stating that the current system is failing its most vulnerable patients. Giancarlo de Vera, CEO of BEING, a mental health consumer group, emphasized, “The supports people need when they leave facilities like Cumberland aren’t there.” He criticized the system for waiting until crises occur before providing adequate treatment.
Opposition mental health spokesperson Sarah Mitchell echoed these sentiments, declaring, “Two escapes from the same mental health facility in just 24 hours is not a coincidence.” She highlighted the urgent need for change in the state’s mental health approach, which is currently underfunded and reactive rather than proactive.
These events have raised serious questions about security protocols at Cumberland Hospital. Rose Jackson, the mental health minister, has launched an urgent review, criticizing police for failing to return Francis to the facility, despite his mental health status and parole conditions.
Authorities report that while they attempted to locate both men, they cannot provide further comments due to ongoing court matters. The local health district has not responded to inquiries regarding the care provided to the men.
This crisis comes amid long-standing advocacy for increased funding for mental health services in New South Wales. Reports indicate the state’s mental health system is responsible for 15% of the total disease burden but remains grossly underfunded. Previous inquests have found systemic issues, including inadequate outreach and accommodation services.
As the situation develops, it’s clear that immediate action is necessary to prevent further tragedies. The public is urged to stay informed and engaged as officials work to address these critical failures in the mental health care system.
For those in need of support, Lifeline can be reached at 13 11 14, and Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636.
