been supported and empowered to operate independently (i.e., conduct their own outreach and training) without formal state support.
Collecting and analyzing data CRCPI staff created a data collection form for local departments to track their program’s processes and outcomes.
Connecticut Coordinating at the state level The Connecticut Alliance to Benefit Law Enforcement (CABLE) is the lead organization for statewide efforts across the state. CABLE is a grassroots not-for-profit research and training collaborative of law enforcement and mental health professionals, families, and consumers living with mental illness, and institutions of higher learning. The organization’s board of director’s works closely with leaders in the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) Division of Forensic Services, the Spector Criminal Justice Training Network, Inc., the Connecticut Office of the Chief State’s Attorney, the Connecticut State Police, and NAMI-Connecticut.
Supporting collaboration at the local level In 2004, through grant funding provided by a BJA Justice Assistance Grant (JAG), five urban jurisdictions implemented CIT training and were tasked with developing a multidisciplinary infrastructure to support CIT program planning. When a jurisdiction expresses interest in implementing a CIT program, CABLE brings together the relevant stakeholders to develop and define the program model for their community and provide resources and suggestions. CABLE’s director then initiates a dialogue between the law enforcement department and the mental health authority to demonstrate how mental health providers can assist law enforcement officers.
Developing curriculum for statewide use The New London Police Department worked with CABLE to develop a CIT curriculum based on the Memphis model. It contains core content areas such as de-escalation, psychiatric medications, and signs or symptoms of mental illness. Other modules have been included on additional topic areas, including the autism spectrum, veterans’ issues, and post-shooting trauma. CABLE obtained POST certification for parts of the curriculum to help officers meet annual in-service training requirements.
Conducting training for localities CABLE has historically conducted trainings in a centralized location, but has started to offer regional trainings based on the five DMHAS service areas.
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Statewide Law Enforcement/Mental Health Efforts