Crisis Response Training and Programs in Mid-Size Law Enforcement Agencies: Findings from a National Survey

• In Event: Averting Crisis: Police Programs and Training

Abstract

In recent years, there have been increasing calls for law enforcement agencies to re-examine how they respond to individuals who experience behavioral health-related crises in their community. Across the United States, there has been significant innovation in the development of police-led, community-led, and co-response programs. However, the prevalence of these crisis response programs, particularly in mid-size cities, remains largely unknown. To address this gap, a national survey of mid-size law enforcement agencies was conducted to examine their existing crisis response programs, training, and community partnerships. This presentation will discuss the findings from this national survey, including the prevalence and nature of crisis response programs and the training and partnerships that support them. The variation in crisis response efforts across agencies will be discussed and future directions for crisis response will be considered.

Authors

• Amanda Shoulberg, National Policing Institute

• Hannah McManus, National Policing Institute