Denver Considers $6 Million Investment in Mental Health Clinicians to Assist Police on Calls
The city of Denver is considering spending $6 million to have mental health clinicians accompany police officers on calls involving individuals with suspected mental health needs.
During the December 18th meeting, the Denver City Council discussed the proposal, which would expand the current contract by 13 months, extending it until November 30, 2024. This extension would include an additional $2.1 million, bringing the total investment to $6 million, according to city documents.
WellPower, formerly known as the Mental Health Center of Denver, is responsible for operating the Crisis Intervention Response Unit in the city. This unit comprises mental health clinicians who work alongside police officers, responding to calls involving individuals with suspected mental health needs.
The data from WellPower indicates that 98% of encounters between mental health clinicians and individuals in crisis did not result in an arrest, while 97% did not end with the issuance of a ticket.
Furthermore, 66% of these encounters were recommended for mental health treatment, underscoring the effectiveness of this collaborative approach between mental health professionals and law enforcement.
Armando Saldate, the city's executive director of public safety, expressed gratitude for the alternative response programs offered in Denver, including the Crisis Intervention Response Unit. He emphasized that these programs lead to better outcomes that do not involve the criminal justice system.
Saldate also highlighted the importance of WellPower as a partner for the co-responder program, especially as the city continues to experience an increase in mental health-related calls. He emphasized the department's commitment to data-driven decision-making to expand alternative response options and provide the appropriate resources for each call for service.
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The Crisis Intervention Response Unit was initiated in 2016 with just three clinicians and one police officer. Since then, it has expanded citywide, with 41 clinical staff members currently serving. Additionally, the unit is exploring partnerships with other city agencies to further enhance its co-responder program, according to city documents.