"I really appreciate the effort to de-stigmatize people with mental health disorders and acknowledging that there are challenges with co-occurring disorders, [with] people who are also using substances to self-medicate," said commissioner Jesus Yañez.
The new policy "aims to decriminalize mental health crises, prioritize alternative responses, and integrate non-law enforcement resources," said Lieutenant Donald Anderson, who presented proposed updates to the commission.
Now, officers are instructed to "utilize strategic communication, crisis intervention, and de-escalation strategies" while addressing people with mental health disorders "before resorting to force."
Unless an individual is violent or presents a public safety risk, officers should divert these cases to non-law enforcement agencies like the Fire Department or Department of Public Health.
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