A Strategic Approach to Police Interactions Involving Persons with Mental Illness

Abstract

A growing challenge for law enforcement is dealing appropriately and effectively with persons with mental illness. Individuals experiencing acute symptoms of mental illness may respond differently than what front-line officers expect. Thus, persons with mental illness raise risk issues regarding intervention, strategy, and program framing. As the population grows and ages, so does the number of persons with mental illnesses. First, we look at the prevalence of mental illness. Second, the evolving research on the relationship between violence and mental illness is presented. Third, we discuss how individuals with mental illnesses are also at risk of being victimized by crime. Fourth, we examine what additional risk factors police can explore to determine the threat level posed when responding to a person with mental illness. A specific technique that officers can employ to more effectively gather information, reduce the risk of confrontation, and promote cooperation is used as an example.