SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A mountain of evidence shows police often fail to respond properly to people experiencing a mental health crisis. It can lead to avoidable deaths and criminalization of
As many as 15% of 911 calls are for behavioral health emergencies. Some experts want to dispatch healthcare professionals rather than armed police officers for calls related to mental health or homelessness.
While communities and legislators are campaigning for changes to the 911 system, police are hope to keep a majority of 911 responsibilities under their control.
A poll commissioned by Public Health Advocates, a Davis-based health policy nonprofit, showed that more than two-thirds of California voters want behavioral health professionals to be part of the emergency response in non-life-threatening situations.
Law enforcement officials agree that 911 response merits a more nuanced approach. But powerful police unions are against proposals that might reduce their control over 911 operations, and the budget and staff that go with them.