A Landscape Analysis of State Crisis System Task Forces and the Integration of Policing

• In Event: Averting Crisis: Police Programs and Training

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to conduct a landscape analysis of five state crisis system task forces that include law enforcement within the task force structure. The goal is to understand the extent to which law enforcement are integrated in state-level task forces in order to improve police response to individuals experiencing an acute mental or behavioral health crisis. As a growing number of states look to implement similar efforts, such research is needed to document the characteristics of existing state crisis system task forces including how and to what extent law enforcement are involved, challenges to participation or engagement, the establishment or expansion of various police response models/interventions through the task force, and outcomes related to improved police response stated by the task force. Through a case study design that entails qualitative analysis of in-depth document reviews and interviews with task force participants and leaders, findings will help advance recommendations and guidance for other states to develop and implement crisis system task forces that meaningfully incorporate policing and a law enforcement perspective.

Authors

• Bronson Bronson, Abt Global

• Stephanie Fahy, Abt Global

• Micaiah Wheeler, Abt Global

• Joanna Abaroa-Ellison, Arnold Ventures