program design. For example, specialized training is often considered crucial, but agencies should be allowed discretion as to which individuals to train, and other decisions regarding this component. This section describes the mechanisms that Connecticut, Ohio, and Utah have used to promote three essential elements of SPR programs: 1. Collaboration at the local level
The statewide planners encourage jurisdictions to make CIT their own, and adapt the elements to fit their needs. The important thing is that we operate in the spirit of CIT/core elements.” —Mark R. Munetz, M.D.
2. Training 3. Law enforcement and mental health agency response policies
Clinical Director of the Ohio Criminal Justice Coordinating Center of Excellence, Ohio
These three elements were consistently identified as critical components for coordinators in each of the featured states—and parallel some of the essential elements identified by the CSG Justice Center and CIT International.
Collaboration at the Local Level Representatives in each of the three states agreed that the first step in developing a SPR at the local level is to establish a collaboration that includes all relevant stakeholders. Each statewide effort developed a mechanism to support and encourage local collaboration. In Connecticut, CABLE convenes a planning meeting of all relevant stakeholders in a community to develop and define the program model and provide suggestions and examples based on other departments’ experiences. CABLE’s director then initiates a dialogue between the law enforcement department and its local mental health authority to demonstrate how the mental health providers can assist police officers in their daily work.
spotlight
Spotlight on a Statewide Effort in Maine
NAMI-Maine has emerged as the lead agency focused on implementing CIT across the state. Its criminal justice program coordinator attributes this status to its commitment and successful fundraising. NAMI-Maine was propelled into the issue area when its national organization adopted CIT as part of its public policy platform in 2001. To support collaboration at the local level, NAMI-Maine helps communities form leadership groups to oversee planning and training. With law enforcement support for the training initiative, the criminal justice program coordinator then invites all licensed mental health service providers, NAMI members, consumers, and other relevant professionals in the jurisdiction to a planning meeting. Following this meeting, she asks interested individuals to participate in an ongoing committee, which serves as the CIT work group. For more information on the NAMI-Maine CIT initiative, visit the web site at http://www.namimaine.org/criminal_justice_programs.htm.
The Objectives of Statewide Efforts
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