Tuscaloosa Police Adds New Mental Health Unit
Tuscaloosa Police Adds New Mental Health Unit
The Tuscaloosa Police Department made an announcement recently that has community members excited.
Earlier this week, TPD announced via Facebook that the department has new additions to the team. They're now staffed with five certified Mental Health Officers and nine Crisis Intervention Team patrol officers.
The Tuscaloosa Police Department made the announcement via Facebook saying, "We’re happy to announce that TPD is now staffed with five certified Mental Health Officers and nine Crisis Intervention Team patrol officers. Our goal is to reach a minimum of 20 patrol officers who have been trained to best respond to individuals suffering mental health crises."
In the post, the TPD also announced a partnership with staff from Indian Rivers Behavioral Health, DCH-North Harbor Pavilion, National Alliance on Mental Illness, and the University of Alabama for our first self-instructed Crisis Intervention Team training.
I think this is so great for them to have mental health officers. In times like these when mental health is such a big concern, this is needed. There have even been situations in west Alabama where people suggested mental health professionals were needed instead of police officers. Hopefully, this will help those in need at the right time.
Facebook comments on their post seem to suggest they're in favor of the new officer training and unit.
"Great job!! 20 down, and the rest to go!! All officers need this training!! Please continue to promote advanced and continuous training in this area!!"
Exciting news for the Tuscaloosa Police Department!