The Harrisonburg Police Department (HPD) is launching a new mental health co-responder program aimed at providing stronger support for individuals in crisis and achieving better outcomes during mental health emergencies. The application process for these co-responder positions will open by early November, with further information publicized by HPD.

Deputy Chief Todd Miller introduced the program, which is funded by a Bureau of Justice Assistance grant, at a recent City Council meeting. This program brings two specialized roles to the force: a licensed clinician and a qualified mental health professional. Their role is to collaborate with officers on calls where mental health is a factor, providing on-site assessment and support.

Captain Jason Kidd, a respected member of HPD and professor at JMU, highlighted the critical need to direct individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges away from unnecessary detention or hospitalization and toward appropriate treatment options. “Mental health calls are now among our most frequent calls for service,” Kidd explained. “By connecting people with the right resources, we can avoid needless jail time or hospital stays and offer more meaningful support to those in crisis.”

The co-responders will be brought onto mental health calls by officers, offering expertise on whether an individual should be detained, admitted to a mental health facility, or permitted to go home. Although officers retain the final decision, Kidd pointed out that this support can guide officers toward more informed, compassionate outcomes. He highlighted that the program addresses a growing issue within the community: the shortage of beds at mental health facilities, which often leaves individuals detained in hospitals for up to 72 hours under police supervision due to state laws mandating temporary detainment for individuals in severe crisis.

Additionally, HPD personnel will be checking in with individuals who have had recent mental health interactions with the department. Miller explained how this proactive approach is intended to build trust and connect individuals with ongoing community resources, aiming to reduce recidivism and repeat calls for service.

By introducing mental health professionals directly into crisis response and follow-up, HPD’s new program aims to foster compassionate, effective intervention and enhance the well-being of the community.

SOURCE: Daily News Record , City of Harrisonburg, VA

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