A high-profile court case has concluded in Spain over the attack on a church official in Algeciras (Cádiz). The accused, Yassine Kanjaa, was found not guilty of murder by reason of complete insanity. Instead of a prison sentence, the court ordered him to undergo compulsory treatment in a specialized psychiatric facility for up to 30 years.
The panel of judges determined that at the time of the crime, Kanjaa was suffering from a severe mental disorder. Experts recorded pronounced signs of schizophrenia accompanied by an acute psychotic phase. This condition completely deprived him of the ability to understand his actions or control his behavior.
Numerous medical reports and psychiatric evaluations were examined during the trial. All confirmed that the defendant was suffering from a serious mental disorder, which served as the basis for applying article 20.1 of the Spanish Criminal Code. This article provides exemption from criminal liability in cases of complete insanity.
The defendant’s mental condition
Court-appointed experts gave a detailed description of Kanjaa’s mental state at the time of the crime. They reported that he had been diagnosed with schizophrenia with marked psychotic symptoms. During this period, the man experienced a complete loss of emotional and behavioral control and was incapable of rational thinking.
Doctors noted that this type of mental disorder makes conscious participation in public life and decision-making impossible. That is why the court ruled that Kancha could not be held criminally responsible in the usual manner.
Court Decision and Its Consequences
Despite the acquittal, the court ordered the defendant to be isolated from society. For the next 30 years, he will be held in a closed psychiatric facility, where specialists will monitor his condition. This decision was made to prevent any potential danger to others and to the patient himself.
The panel of judges emphasized that compulsory treatment is necessary and proportionate to the severity of the offense. If Kancha’s condition improves, the question of his continued stay in the clinic will be reconsidered, taking into account doctors’ opinions.
Public Reaction and the Significance of the Case
The murder case in Algeciras sparked widespread public outcry in Spain. Many are not only discussing the crime itself, but also broader issues related to mental health and responsibility for serious offenses. The court’s decision has become the focus of heated debate among lawyers, doctors, and ordinary citizens.
Experts note that such cases highlight the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses. At the same time, they raise difficult questions for society about balancing public safety with the rights of people with mental disorders.
