New Crisis Response Team To Help Mental Health Emergencies In Fredericksburg

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — A Crisis Intervention Response Team will start to respond to mental health crises and other sensitive situations involving law enforcement, the Fredericksburg Police Department announced on Wednesday. The team is a collaboration between the police department and the Rappahannock Area Community Services Board.

In an update, the police department said that the team would specialize in de-escalation during mental health emergencies. The team would serve as the primary responding units for mental health crises, suicide attempts or threats, and emergency custody order. They could also provide support for situations like homicides, child abuse cases, and sexual assaults.

"I am thrilled to partner with the RACSB to provide this important service to the City of Fredericksburg. The CIRT will help people in crisis access the resources they need quickly, officers will experience less stress and trauma, and the RACSB will make an even bigger impact by reaching a broader audience," Chief Brian Layton said in a news release. "This partnership will make our community healthier and safer."

The team will consist of one police officer and one clinician. They will work four 10-hour shifts, centering their schedules around times where there is a high number of mental health calls.

"“Rappahannock Area Community Services Board and all RACSB emergency services staff are motivated and excited to see the inception of our co-response program in partnership with the Fredericksburg Police Department," emergency services coordinator Kari Norris said. "Individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis will now have an opportunity for an enhanced law enforcement response to continue to best serve the individuals in our community and provide the best outcomes for those in crisis."

Authorities said that the crisis response team would help reduce the risk of violent encounters with police. The trained responders could also conduct follow up visits to refer people, family members, and caregivers to community health services.

The team is funded through a Department of Criminal Justice grant until June 2023. After that, it will be funded by the city.

The Rappahannock Area Community Services Board offers several services for people in need in the Fredericksburg area. Their services can be accessed online or by calling 540-373-3223.