Nampa Police Department embraces Mental Health Crisis Response: A Model for American Law Enforcement?
The Nampa Police Department in Idaho is taking a bold step towards addressing the growing mental health crisis in america. facing a surge in calls related to mental health issues, the department is pioneering a new approach by hiring a dedicated mental health coordinator. This move, while not entirely novel in law enforcement circles, represents a significant shift in how Nampa police intend to interact wiht its community.
“This position — the mental health coordinator — it’s not new as far as law enforcement around the nation or even local,but it is indeed something that’s new for Nampa Police,” saeid deputy Chief Curt Shankel.
The department’s decision stems from a stark reality: mental health calls are increasingly consuming valuable police resources.Data compiled by the Nampa Police Department paints a clear picture. Since 2018, the number of calls related to mental health has skyrocketed. Thes calls, often complex adn time-consuming, place a significant strain on officers and divert them from other critical duties.
“We’ve identified that we need to do something different — we need to have a better response, something that’s going to help the community members,” Shankel explained.
The average mental health hold, for instance, requires officers to dedicate five hours and five minutes, while suicide calls consume an average of six hours and 44 minutes. Even seemingly straightforward welfare checks average an hour and 45 minutes of officer time.
The mental health coordinator, Shankel believes, will be instrumental in alleviating this burden. The position will act as a liaison between the police department and community mental health resources, ensuring individuals in crisis receive the appropriate support.
“Creating this team, the goal is — one of those goals is diversion. We don’t want to take someone to jail if we don’t have to, especially if it’s a mental health issue,” Shankel said. “If we can work with them early on — help get them resources and set them up with community partners, then that’s the goal — get them that help early on.”
This approach aligns with a growing national movement towards de-escalation and diversion in policing. Instead of relying solely on arrests, law enforcement agencies are increasingly recognizing the need to connect individuals with mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and other support systems.
Nampa Police are not alone in this endeavor. Departments across the country, from large metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and New York City to smaller towns like Meridian and Boise, are implementing similar programs.
“We’ve collaborated with Meridian, boise, and Ada County, which have similar programs, to learn from their experiences,” Shankel said.
These collaborations are crucial for sharing best practices and ensuring the success of these initiatives. By learning from each other, law enforcement agencies can refine their approaches and create more effective models for responding to mental health crises.
The Nampa Police Department’s commitment to hiring a mental health coordinator is a promising step towards a more compassionate and effective approach to policing. It reflects a growing understanding that mental health is a public health issue that requires a multi-faceted response.
Practical Takeaways for U.S. Readers:
Recognize the signs of mental health distress: Be aware of changes in behavior, mood, and social interactions that may indicate someone is struggling.
Encourage open conversations about mental health: Break down the stigma surrounding mental illness by talking openly and honestly about it.
Support local initiatives: Advocate for increased funding and resources for mental health services in your community.
Know your local resources: Familiarize yourself with mental health hotlines, crisis centers, and support groups in your area.
* Practice self-care: Prioritize your own mental well-being by engaging in activities that promote relaxation, stress management, and emotional balance.
The Nampa Police Department’s initiative serves as a model for other law enforcement agencies across the country. By prioritizing mental health, they are not only improving the lives of individuals in crisis but also building stronger, more resilient communities.
Nampa Police Department Embraces mental Health Crisis Response: A Model for the Nation?
Time.news Editor: nampa Police Department has recently made headlines for its innovative approach to mental health crisis response. Deputy Chief Curt Shankel, can you tell us more about this initiative and what inspired it?
Deputy Chief Curt Shankel: Absolutely. We’ve seen a notable increase in calls related to mental health issues over the past few years. These calls are frequently enough complex and time-consuming for our officers, diverting them from other critical duties. We realized we needed a better way to address these situations and provide more effective support to our community members.
Time.news Editor: Can you elaborate on the specific challenges law enforcement faces when responding to mental health crises?
Deputy Chief Curt Shankel: Mental health calls can be incredibly demanding for our officers.They require specialized training,empathy,and a deep understanding of mental health conditions. The average mental health hold, for example, takes officers five hours and five minutes, while suicide calls can consume six hours and 44 minutes. These lengthy engagements strain our resources and limit our availability for other emergencies.
Time.news Editor: So, how does the new mental health coordinator position address these challenges?
Deputy Chief Curt Shankel: This dedicated position is a game-changer. The mental health coordinator will act as a liaison between our department and community mental health resources. They will help connect individuals in crisis with the appropriate support services, ensuring they receive the help they need.
Time.news Editor: This approach seems to align with the growing national movement towards de-escalation and diversion in policing. Can you tell us more about that?
Deputy Chief Curt shankel: Absolutely. We’re moving away from the traditional “arrest first” mentality and embracing a more holistic approach. Our goal is to divert individuals from the criminal justice system whenever possible, especially when mental health is a factor. By connecting them with mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and other support systems, we can address the root causes of their struggles and prevent future crises.
Time.news editor: Are there other law enforcement agencies implementing similar programs?
Deputy Chief Curt Shankel: Yes, absolutely. We’ve been collaborating with departments in Meridian, Boise, and Ada county, all of whom have implemented similar programs. Sharing best practices and learning from each other’s experiences is crucial for success.
Time.news Editor: What advice would you give to other law enforcement agencies looking to implement similar initiatives?
deputy Chief Curt Shankel: First, build strong relationships with local mental health providers and community organizations. Second, invest in specialized training for your officers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to effectively respond to mental health crises. be patient and persistent. Changing the culture of policing takes time and commitment.
Time.news Editor: This is a truly groundbreaking initiative, Deputy Chief Shankel. Thank you for sharing your insights with our readers.
Deputy Chief Curt Shankel: My pleasure. We believe this approach is not only beneficial for our community but also for our officers. By prioritizing mental health, we’re creating a safer and more compassionate society for everyone.