INDIANA: Cumberland Police Launch Team to Connect People Struggling with Mental Health with Available Resources
February 23, 2018
An Indiana police department has established a new unit to assist people struggling with mental health issues. Earlier this year, the Cumberland Metropolitan Police Department launched the Cumberland Assertive Response and Engagement Team, or CARE Unit. Developed with an advisory committee of community stakeholders, the unit aims to connect people with mental health resources, reduce repeat calls, and prevent unnecessary arrest and incarceration. The unit includes trained chaplains, who follow up with callers to ensure that they have access to the resources and services they need. According to Cumberland Officer Austin Holtz, the CARE unit will allow the department to more effectively respond to people with mental health challenges. “It’s tough to see someone who is struggling and needs help and doesn’t necessarily know to get it,” he said.
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