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HPD Expands Crisis Intervention Team to Address Oʻahu Mental Health Crisis
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Honolulu,HI – The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) is substantially expanding its Crisis Intervention team (CIT) program,a proactive step to better address the increasing number of mental health-related emergencies on Oʻahu. The expansion aims to equip more officers with specialized training to de-escalate situations involving individuals experiencing mental health crises, reducing reliance on traditional law enforcement approaches.
The move comes as Hawaiʻi, like many states, faces a growing demand for mental health services. We recognize the need to provide our officers with the tools and training to effectively respond to individuals in crisis,
stated HPD officials. the program’s expansion reflects a broader shift towards a more compassionate and effective approach to mental health emergencies.
Program Details & Training
the CIT program involves a forty-hour training course for officers, covering topics such as mental health disorders, crisis intervention techniques, de-escalation strategies, and available community resources. Officers completing the training become certified CIT officers, designated to respond to calls involving individuals believed to be experiencing a mental health crisis.
Did You Know?
The CIT model originated in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1988, as a response to a fatal police shooting of a man experiencing a mental health crisis.
| Phase | timeline | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Now – Q4 2024 | Officer Training & Certification |
| Phase 2 | Q1 2025 | Expanded CIT Unit Deployment |
| Phase 3 | Ongoing | Community Partnership growth |
Collaboration with Community Partners
HPD is emphasizing collaboration with local mental health providers and community organizations. This partnership aims to connect individuals in crisis with appropriate care and support services, diverting them from the criminal justice system whenever possible. This isn’t just about policing; it’s about connecting people with the help they need,
an HPD spokesperson explained.
Pro Tip: If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Resources are available – see the FAQ section below.
Addressing the Growing need
The expansion of the CIT program is a direct response to the increasing number of calls for service involving individuals in mental health crisis. Data indicates a significant rise in these types of calls in recent years, placing a strain on both law enforcement and mental health resources. the program seeks to alleviate this strain by providing officers with the skills to effectively manage these situations and connect individuals with appropriate care.
– Honolulu Police Department
The HPD’s initiative aligns with national trends in law enforcement, as more agencies recognize the importance of specialized training in responding to mental health emergencies. This approach not only improves outcomes for individuals in crisis but also enhances officer safety and community trust.
What are your thoughts on the expansion of CIT programs? Do you believe this is a positive step towards addressing mental health crises in our communities? Share your perspective in the comments below!
How can communities better support law enforcement in providing mental health crisis intervention?
Frequently Asked Questions about HPD’s CIT Program
- What is a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT)? A CIT is a specialized group of law enforcement officers trained to respond to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.
- What kind of training do CIT officers receive? CIT officers undergo a forty-hour training course covering mental health disorders, de-escalation techniques, and community resources.
- How dose the CIT program benefit the community? The program aims to improve outcomes for individuals in crisis, enhance officer safety, and build community trust.
- What happens when a CIT officer responds to a call? They assess the situation, attempt to de-escalate the crisis, and connect
