Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Training and Officer-Involved Shootings

Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) programs aim to equip police officers with the skills and knowledge to de-escalate potentially violent encounters with individuals experiencing mental illness. This paper examines the impact of week-long CIT training on officers’ responses to aggressive and violent individuals and explores the effect on officer-involved shootings.

Impact of CIT Training:

CIT training typically involves a week of instruction on:

• Mental health awareness:Officers learn to recognize signs and symptoms of mental illness.
• De-escalation techniques:Training includes verbal communication strategies, active listening, and crisis negotiation tactics.
• Use of force continuum:Officers refine their understanding of when and how to use force, prioritizing less-lethal options.

Studies suggest CIT training can positively impact officers’ responses:

• Improved Communication:CIT officers may be more likely to engage in empathetic communication and build rapport with individuals in crisis.
• Reduced Use of Force:Some studies show a decrease in CIT officers resorting to force during mental health calls.
• Increased Referrals to Mental Health Services:CIT training can encourage officers to connect individuals in crisis with appropriate mental health resources.

CIT Training and Officer-Involved Shootings:

The link between CIT training and a reduction in officer-involved shootings involving individuals with mental illness is a complex issue with mixed evidence:

• Supportive Findings:Some studies report a decrease in officer-involved shootings after implementing CIT programs.
• Limited Impact:Other research shows no significant change in shooting rates following CIT training.
• Confounding Factors:Factors like program implementation quality, data collection methods, and regional variations in mental health services can influence results.

My Opinion:

While the research on CIT’s impact on shootings is not conclusive, I believe CIT training is a valuable tool for law enforcement. Here’s why:

• De-escalation Skills:CIT training equips officers with crucial de-escalation skills that can prevent violent situations from escalating.
• Improved Officer Safety:By fostering better communication and understanding, CIT training can potentially reduce the risk of both officer and civilian injuries.
• Focus on Community Care:CIT programs emphasize diverting individuals in crisis towards mental health services, promoting a more holistic approach to public safety.

However, a few points are important to consider:

• Training is not a panacea:CIT training alone cannot eliminate officer-involved shootings entirely.
• Ongoing Support is Key:Officers need ongoing support and resources to effectively utilize their CIT training in real-world situations.
• Focus on Systemic Issues:Addressing systemic issues like access to mental health care and social services is crucial for long-term solutions.

Conclusion:

While the debate on CIT’s impact on officer-involved shootings continues, there is clear evidence that it improves officers’ communication skills and crisis intervention abilities. By promoting de-escalation and diversion to mental health services, CIT programs can contribute to a safer and more just approach to public safety. However, a comprehensive approach that addresses societal issues alongside officer training is vital for long-term success.