In the aftermath of a fatal incident involving the Orlando Police Department (OPD) and an armed individual suffering from a mental health crisis, the Orange County grand jury has made public their suggestions to bolster the efficacy of OPD's Community Response Team (CRT). As reported on September 3rd, the grand jury's recommendations come in response to the July 14, 2023 shooting of 32-year-old Rachael Ellis, who, reportedly intoxicated and armed with knives, was shot by responding officers after she charged at them. While the officers involved were deemed to have acted lawfully, quote, "the grand jury released a presentment offering the following recommendations for the CRT." according to a statement obtained by the State Attorney's Office of the Ninth Judicial Circuit.
They've also pointed out that the existing structure of contracted clinicians, and limited hours may not be sufficient to handle Orlando's demands, thus, calling for an increase in resources and staffing. Crucially, the grand jury advises operational changes, suggesting the use of plainclothes officers and unmarked vehicles to mitigate the intensity of police presence during crises.
OPD has responded to the grand jury's scrutiny and commendation for their efforts to meld mental health support with policing. OPD stated it is actively working to improve its CRT and find additional ways to integrate mental health support into police operations to better serve the Orlando community. the statement from the OPD indicated a move towards more integrated and sensitive approaches to mental health emergencies.
