Tampa Police Department and Crisis Center of Tampa Bay Launch Crisis Intervention Dispatch Service Program News General, News Tampa Police Tampa Police Department and Crisis[...]

Tampa Police Department and Crisis Center of Tampa Bay Launch Crisis Intervention Dispatch Service Program
TAMPA, Fla. (July 23, 2024) -- The program aims to divert officer response when not required during a behavioral health crisis, connect 911 callers in need of behavioral health support to resources and engage high utilizers of 911 for prevention.

When TPD dispatch center staff have a call where someone is experiencing a behavioral health crisis, they have the ability to transfer the call to the intervention specialist. The intervention specialist then talks with the caller, works to deescalate the caller, and helps connect them to community resources.

Many behavioral health calls to 911 involve someone who is experiencing a behavioral health crisis. For this reason, the Tampa Police Department is now housing intervention specialists from the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay in the TPD dispatch center.

"We are delighted and honored to have launched this new initiative in Tampa! When someone is experiencing a behavioral health crisis, it's vital to connect them to the support they need as quickly as possible. We're so thankful to the Tampa Police Department for prioritizing behavioral health," said Clara Reynolds, President & CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.

"This partnership with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is another way we are committed to supporting our community," said Chief Lee Bercaw. "The additional resources in our dispatch center are already having a positive impact in connecting those experiencing a behavioral health crisis with the resources they need."

People in the community who are experiencing thoughts of suicide and other crises can call 988. If someone needs information about community resources, please call 211. Both numbers are answered 24/7. The 911 emergency services number is available 24/7 for anyone in need of immediate assistance from police, the fire department, or an ambulance.