In Goodyear, Arizona, the local police department is taking strides to better accommodate residents with disabilities during emergency call-outs. The Goodyear Police Department has initiated a specialized training program for its officers, focusing on proper interaction with individuals who have autism, mental illness, and other disabilities. Part of this effort includes the creation of a Vulnerable Person Database Registration Program, as reported by 12News.
According to the department's recent report, residents of Goodyear can now register their family members with disabilities in an a database that provides law enforcement with crucial data, such as photos and tailored approach recommendations, during emergency situations. "Each diagnosis requires different interaction tools," Sergeant Sean Tyler, who is overseeing the program, told 12News. The Goodyear Police Sergeants also equip themselves with a ‘toolbox’ during patrols, containing items to aid communication with vulnerable individuals, such as emotion identification cards and sensory toys.
Furthermore, in a concerted effort to avoid distressing interactions, the officers have been trained to recognize cues of autism, and 85% of both civilian and sworn employees now understand how to engage successfully with individuals showing signs of the condition. The innovative approach is aimed at improving the safety and understanding of interactions between law enforcement and those they serve. Providing information on the specific needs of vulnerable individuals allows officers to respond to incidents more effectively and compassionately.
In alignment with a policy document released by the Goodyear Police Department, the agency is committed to delivering services to all community members, emphasizing the protection of constitutional rights while maintaining safety. The policy, effective since October 18, 2023, elaborates on varied definitions relating to mental health crises and ailments, serving as a guide for officers on handling situations involving mental health. It stipulates definitions for terms such as 'Mental Illness,' 'Crisis,' and 'Persistent or Acutely Disabled,' offering clarity to ensure police serve an the community appropriately. The full policy can be accessed via Goodyear Police Department's documented policy.
The department underscores the necessity of its Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), highlighting their importance in law enforcement-based crisis interventions. CIT has been designed to increase the safety of officers, those with mental illnesses, their families, and community members. With a focus on directing those with mental illness away from the judicial system and towards health care, the CIT Model also seeks to mitigate stigma and promote effective problem-solving between the criminal justice and mental health care systems.
