Misplaced enthusiasm with neglect of Human Rights ‐ Beneficence is not enough

Abstract Background Oak Ridge, a unit for "criminally insane" male patients at Penetanguishene in Ontario, Canada opened in1965 and provided an experimental system of treatment whereby looked after other strictly controlled harsh environment. It closed 1983. Aims This article draws attention to the unethical treatments used. Method Some are described, as is, briefly, recent civil lawsuit Ontario which concerned 28 ex‐patients class action suit against province two doctors overseeing project. Result The judge severely criticised awarded damages all plaintiffs. Conclusion vivid story leads number important principles enumerated head article.