People v. Michael D.

PRESIDING JUSTICE O’BRIEN

delivered the opinion of the court:

Following a bench trial on a petition for the involuntary commitment of respondent, Michael D., for mental health treatment, the circuit court ordered respondent committed and hospitalized at Chicago-Read Mental Health Center (Chicago-Read) for up to 180 days. Respondent appeals. We reverse.

Respondent is a 74-year-old widower suffering from bipolar disorder whose relationship with his neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Strom, had resulted in repeated police intervention. Respondent allegedly threatened the Stroms and swung an axe at Mrs. Strom.…