NCJ Number
207860
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 52 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2004 Pages: 126,128-130,132,133
Editor(s)
Ed Sanow
Date Published
October 2004
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article examines the role of law enforcement agencies across the country in the handling of emotionally disturbed persons (EDPs) and the utilization of a collaborative model approach in the successful management of EDP's in their communities.
Abstract
Local, State, and national courts are currently handling a variety of cases involving litigation against police departments, as well as mental health providers in the mishandling of emotionally disturbed persons (EDPs). One such case is in Pennsylvania; Schorr versus the Borough of Lemoyne, West Shore Regional Police Department, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania Mental Health/Mental Retardation Department and Holy Spirit Hospital. The outcome of this case will determine how law enforcement and State and county mental health departments and providers conduct business. In response to this particular case, observations are made by law enforcement agencies in order to find creative solutions for managing persons with mental illness in their communities. The forming of collaborative partnerships between law enforcement and mental health services is presented and discussed. In forming such a partnership, areas addressed include: decriminalizing mental illness, clearly defining the roles of law enforcement and mental health services, the handling of crisis calls, suggested guidelines for both law enforcement and mental health departments by the American Bar Association, police as first responders, the use of a de-escalation approach as effective less-lethal approach, training, and accountability. Building safer communities entails the joining of forces with advocates for EDP's.