18 Officers Complete Crisis Intervention Training in Mahoning County

Among the graduates was Boardman police officer Luke Greguolo, who shared that his first encounter with a person experiencing a mental health crisis was challenging. He recounted how a CIT officer present was able to deescalate the situation and transport the individual to a hospital. He noted that the training helped him recognize symptoms associated with schizophrenia, which he had not understood previously.

The CIT training program, run by the Mental Health and Recovery Board (MHRB), includes an intensive 40-hour curriculum aimed at equipping officers and first responders with strategies for handling mental health crises and high-stress situations. The program is conducted in partnership with organizations like NAMI Mahoning Valley.

Youngstown Police Lt. Jerry Fulmer explained that CIT has been operational in Ohio since 2000, with Mahoning County starting its program in 2006. Since then, the county has consistently trained officers, ensuring that at least one CIT-trained officer is available on patrol at all times. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between mental health services and law enforcement to effectively address needs in the community.

Fulmer noted that the presence of CIT-trained officers has contributed to a reduction in recidivism rates, as officers are better trained to identify individuals who require treatment rather than incarceration. He acknowledged that while progress has been made, ongoing challenges include ensuring officers are aware of available mental health resources.

Jason Nespeca from the Adult Parole Authority highlighted the significance of the training, noting that officers often interact with individuals during their most difficult moments. He emphasized the impact officers can make in such situations.

Mahoning County officials have been grappling with the issue of the county jail serving as a makeshift mental health facility. Sheriff Jerry Greene stated that a significant number of inmates receive psychotropic medication, but some severely mentally ill individuals remain incarcerated due to a lack of alternative treatment options.

The county has allocated funds to enhance mental health services within the jail, employing trained counselors and nursing staff to address behavioral health needs. In August, commissioners approved $60,000 to hire a forensic mental-health navigator aimed at improving transitions for inmates to appropriate psychiatric care.

Chief Todd Werth of Boardman Police remarked that CIT training fosters healthier interactions between police and the public, ultimately enhancing safety for both officers and those they assist.