College Station Council Evaluates Mental Health Crisis Response Resources
The College Station City Council recently assessed local resources for mental health crises and the police department’s role in responding to such emergencies. With a rise in mental health crises, police are increasingly acting as first responders to urgent calls.
Police Response to Mental Health Crises
Chief of Police Billy Couch highlighted that dispatchers often rely on officers as their primary resource for handling these situations. “The first immediate calls typically come into a dispatch center, and those dispatchers look for a resource, and their first resource is a police officer,” he stated.
Crisis Prevention Team
To better manage challenging mental health incidents, the College Station Police Department has established a crisis prevention team comprising 20 members. This dedicated team focuses on addressing complex mental health calls effectively.
- Team members are passionate about their work.
- Interventions may include transporting individuals to hospitals.
- Transport often requires cooperation with the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office.
Chief Couch noted the necessity of transferring patients outside Brazos County, as local facilities are lacking. The nearest overnight mental health facility is located in Houston, which is a significant distance for those in need of immediate care.
Community Needs and Further Discussions
Councilwoman Melissa McIlhaney stressed the urgency of enhancing mental health resources for both the public and law enforcement. “I think there is enough of a need that a conversation should be started,” she remarked, highlighting the growing demand within the community.
The Council aims to continue exploring options to improve mental health services, particularly given the increasing challenges faced by both individuals and responders in the area.
