Law Enforcement Urges Innovative Programs To Address Violence Related To Mental Illness
The Associated Press reports on areas where progress has been made, and how much still needs to be done. Meanwhile, in Maryland, legislation is being advanced to establish behavioral health units within certain police departments.
The Associated Press:
Police Shootings Of Mentally Ill Reveal Gaps In Care
Police crisis intervention efforts and diversion courts are helpful in stemming the violence, but those on the front lines say states need innovative programs and more must be done to get people early and provide preventative care to curtail explosive moments of crisis. (Warren, 3/19)
The Associated Press:
Delegates To Consider Mental Health Units In Law Enforcement
The legislation as amended would establish behavioral health units within the Baltimore City and Baltimore County police departments. The units would be comprised of at least six officers who are trained to handle incidents involving people with mental disorders or who exhibit substance abuse signs. The officers, according to the bill’s language, could help those individuals get treatment rather than risk an unnecessary or violent encounter with law enforcement. (3/20)
