Public Hearing: YES ? NO ? Department: Executive Assistant - Chief Operating Office
SUBJECT:
Title
Commission District(s): All Districts
Renewal Funding for the DeKalb County Police Department Mobile Crisis Team
Body
Information Contact: Zachary L. Williams
Phone Number: 404 371 2174
PURPOSE:
This agenda item is to request that the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners continue funding the DeKalb County Police Department Mobile Crisis/Co-responder program. Funding for this program was originally approved under agenda items 2021-2878 and 2022-2389 using ARP funds. The current funding for this program will be exhausted by September 2024. The mobile crisis or co-responder team, comprising a dedicated DeKalb County Police Officer and a Claratel Behavioral Health clinician, is a cornerstone of our community's mental health crisis support system. The licensed clinician's consultation and assessment services assist in diverting individuals in crisis from arrest or ERs, ensuring they receive the mental health treatment they need
NEED/IMPACT:
Since 2021, the DeKalb County Mobile Crisis/ Co-responder team has responded to over 5679 calls, conducted 1291 transports, and initiated 446 involuntary commitment evaluations. The program has been a remarkable success for the community, as it was used as the template for State legislation that has led to the creation of similar programs in other counties and cities. Chief Ramos established a unique police unit within the DeKalb County Police Department with specially trained officers to work with the Claratel Behavioral Health clinical team. Under her guidance, the mobile crisis team continues demonstrating its value to the community, reducing 911 calls, ER hospitalizations, and arrests. The Mobile Crisis Team, the longest-running program of its kind, has been an indispensable part of our community since the early 1990s, receiving referrals from the Count...
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