NCJ Number
126541
Date Published
1990
Length
31 pages
Annotation
This instruction unit provides guidelines for police officers regarding the proper response to persons with developmental disabilities or mental illness, information about the nature and causes of these afflictions, and community resources available for referral.
Abstract
It covers legal aspects such as the Laterman-Petris, Short Act of 1968 and the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act. It lists and defines the major categories of mental disorders or developmental disabilities as well as particular symptoms associated with each condition. Detention procedures are described for safeguarding the legal rights of a person under the authority of Section 5150 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. In situations where involuntary detention and treatment is not appropriate, alternative methods for handling a person simulating a mentally ill person are presented. In addition, information is provided for selecting an appropriate mental health facility or regional center within the agency's jurisdiction to be used for evaluation, treatment, counseling, or referral. Risk factors for postpartum psychosis are discussed together with appropriate courses of action for each. Handouts, a listing of California Regional Centers, and a County Designated Facilities Roster for 5150 Action are appended. 21 references