I guess you make a couple of good points. This was in the U.S. and they way they treat their mentally ill patients is totally different.
It is not just one doctor that judges if a person is ready to be released but a panel.
When a patient is released they get their medication delivered daily. As to your point about people's on screen charm. I agree, but to help these people understand the devastation they caused, the psychiatrist and the staff who work with the patient can see beyond if the person is putting on a front. If we are to truly re habilitate someone then is compassion not a good way to start? Make the patient realise the pain of the victim and then learn to deal with guilt.
It was interesting to note that Jonathan said he never felt guilty about killing his father because he was not in control of his actions.
But he dose understand the pain he caused.