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Three Portage County police officers were named 2020 Crisis Intervention Team Officers of the Year by the Portage County Police Chief’s Association and the Mental Health & Recovery Board
Streetsboro Police Officer Josh Bartholomew, Kent Police Officer Matthew Butcher and Ravenna Police Officer Scott Krieger were recognized for practicing the communication and de-escalation techniques they learned during their CIT training in dealing with individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis or are struggling with addiction.
Streetsboro Police Chief Patricia Wain said that Bartholomew has taken steps to work closely with the mental health community in his role as the county’s CIT coordinator, acting as a trainer during the CIT classes for officers, and working with the city’s fire department personnel.