Focus on Mental Health & Substance Abuse
- Mental Health
Our community is home to many individuals grappling with mental health challenges. At times, their actions may lead to interactions with law enforcement. It’s crucial that responders are equipped to recognize and understand the signs of a mental health crisis. I am proud to share that I, along with numerous officers across our agencies, have completed Crisis Intervention Training (CIT). This program educates participants on mental and behavioral health issues, enhancing our ability to identify symptoms and respond effectively. It’s unfortunate that Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) is the sole mental health education mandated for us and no additional training or updates are provided. To truly enhance the protection of both law enforcement personnel and those experiencing mental health emergencies, it’s imperative that we engage in annual mental health training.
From my own experiences, I’ve encountered situations where individuals were in the midst of a mental health crisis, whether due to conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or experiencing suicidal thoughts. These moments made it clear that such individuals required a level of professional care beyond what I could offer. One particular incident, which deeply affected both my life and that of the individual involved, underscores the necessity for our agency to have the ability to enlist the aid of licensed mental health professionals. Their expertise is vital in supporting our deputies and safeguarding everyone involved.
- Substance Abuse
Throughout my tenure in law enforcement, I’ve seen the devastating impact of substance abuse on individuals in our community. The rise in the use of methamphetamine's, fentanyl, heroin, and other narcotics has led to a heartbreaking increase in overdoses and overdose related fatalities. It’s essential that we offer those struggling with addiction pathways to rehabilitation rather than defaulting to incarceration.
In collaboration with the sheriff’s office, the Department of Human Services, the District Attorney’s office, and our superior court judges, we must prioritize alternative treatments, including in-patient and outpatient programs, as initial steps towards recovery. We must also rally around those in recovery, celebrating their progress and encouraging their continued journey towards healing. I commend those who have completed their treatment programs and are now contributing their voices and efforts to support others in their recovery.
I firmly believe that individuals in recovery embody the very essence of our community’s spirit—our dedication, determination, and resilience. Let’s unite in backing the local organizations and programs dedicated to aiding recovery. My commitment includes establishing partnerships with local recovery initiatives and advocating for treatment-focused approaches with the district attorney, rather than punitive measures, for those battling substance abuse.
If you’re reading this and have a loved one affected by substance abuse, know that as your sheriff, I am dedicated to ensuring they receive the best possible options for recovery. Moreover, I vow to every member of our community that I will relentlessly target those responsible for the distribution of illegal drugs in our county.