Since the creation of the Montgomery County Precinct 1 Mental Health Crisis Intervention Team, Constable Cash has prioritized the law enforcement response and care for our neighbors who are experiencing a mental health crisis. Through this initiative, the men and women of the Mental Health Division have successfully responded to, and intervened in, over 24,400 calls for service, where loved ones were actively in a mental health crisis.
When deputies responded to these individuals the most important tool they have at their disposal is the power of de-escalation. Using this skill, deputies are able to gain compliance in a non-physical or violent way. Once the individual is secured from hurting themselves or others, they are transported primarily to Tri-County Behavioral Healthcare Psychiatric Emergency Treatment Center (PETC). Once at PETC, the consumer speaks with a Crisis Assessment Specialist, and a plan of action is created for the consumer.
Through an upcoming position with Tri-County, a Crisis Assessment Specialist will now be paired with a member of the Precinct 1 Crisis Intervention Team. This evaluator will respond to calls for service with the deputy throughout Montgomery County and will have the ability to begin providing mental health interventions for the loved one experiencing a crisis. This immediate response decreases the length of time the consumer is waiting to be assessed and will allow the individual to begin receiving help as soon as the evaluator arrives. This evaluator will not only be able to assist with immediate safety and action plans but will be able to identify the least restrictive intervention needed to stabilize the immediate mental health crisis. The ability to provide this level of service and care to our neighbors is instrumental in their recovery and long-term health.
Constable Cash is excited about this continued partnership with Tri-County along with our other community partners in mental health and believes the addition of this evaluator will help aid in our response and treatment of those experiencing a mental health crisis. “I believe this evaluator will be a valuable asset to the community and am grateful for the continued partnership and support we receive from everyone at Tri-County. We are excited to be at the forefront and offer this service to the citizens of Montgomery County.”
