Boone County law enforcement trains to de-escalate encounters with unstable individuals

Boone County law enforcement officers underwent crisis intervention training Friday. The training helped deputies be equip with the tools and resources that they need to serve those with mental health conditions.

The training focused on basic assessment skills and how to handle incidents that involve unstable individuals.

One person expressed appreciation to a deputy with a hand-written letter:

“There is no way that I would have gotten the help that I needed without your intervention. You saved my life.”

The letter was written after a crisis took place, and intervention was needed. The girl wanted to be sure that the deputy was praised for his quick thinking and kind heart during her thoughts of suicide.

The Crisis Intervention Team wants to reduce the stigma that law enforcement officers aren’t getting the training they need.

Friday’s event included mock scenarios that will allow officers to handle each situation with more understanding.