It’s beneficial for law enforcement to meet those who have mental health challenges outside of crisis situations. Here at the Academy, they see that our members are bright and motivated people, creative artists and thinkers, warm and welcoming hosts with hearts for service, and so much more. We often say of our members that their mental illness is the least interesting thing about them. But unfortunately, it’s often the only side that law enforcement sees when responding to a mental health crisis call. 

This past week, Academy member Paul Hennekes hosted our guests, provided them with a tour and introduced several members who shared their experiences of recovery. The officers stayed for lunch and were treated to an exceptional meal that was planned, created and served by our members. In this way, they experienced the whole individual; vibrant, complex, and accomplished people with whom they have more in common than not.

Conversely, it was an opportunity for our members to meet our local police in a relaxed and equitable environment without fear. An unfortunate consequence of officers responding to crisis is that members may associate the police with their worst days. And if those officers aren’t properly trained to recognize a mental health crisis, they may opt for the criminal justice system instead of referring to appropriate mental health treatment services.

Special thanks to ret. Lieutenant Charles Kenniff, for organizing the visit, and for being part of the solution to reducing incarceration among those with mental health concerns. When we simply take the time to get to know each other like this, the world becomes a much more peaceful and equitable place.

CIT is a model of policing developed in the late 1980s. The model calls for first-responders to take a community-based approach to mental health calls, accessing treatment and supports instead of placing individuals in the criminal justice system. Touring the Academy and other mental health-related facilities is just one part of a 40-hour curriculum that includes de-escalation techniques, identification of diagnoses, community outreach, Baker Act (mental health) and Marchman Act (substance abuse) training, and scenario-based trainings.

Our hope is that in meeting members who are stable, thriving, and productive, they can find the humanity in those whose behavior might be challenging because of their symptoms. Within a population for which unemployment rates already hover around 85%, a legal background all but ensures that they will never work. One officer asked, “how would the Academy like to strengthen a partnership with law enforcement?” The answer was simple: keep coming back! The more exposure law enforcement gets to members on a good day (that is the majority of days for most), the deeper their understanding of mental health, recovery, and the great potential of all who are diagnosed. After lunch, Paul provided a comprehensive tour of the building before sending them off with a fresh perspective on mental health.

Paul Hennekes (standing at right) shares his story with visitors from the Sarasota Police Department.