A Minnesota couple is seeking class action status in a suit against a state mental hospital claiming that patients there were restrained in handcuffs, leg shackles and nylon straps for minor behavior problems.

James and Lorie Jensen say that while their 20-year old son lived at the Minnesota Extended Treatment Options facility he was restrained more than 70 times for laughing, spitting and other offenses. Further, the Jensens contend in their suit that they were denied access to their son while he was at the facility which serves as a short-term placement for those in crisis.

The suit follows a state report last fall that details residents being restrained for things like going outside without a coat. State officials acknowledge that such practices were common at the facility, but say they have been discontinued, reports The (Minneapolis) Star Tribune. To read more click here.

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