Grand Jury Completed Response Packet 2 messages

Santa Cruz County law enforcement response to homeless, addiction, and mental health issues has the potential to criminalize social, medical, and psychological conditions. This requires law enforcement to perform the role of social worker; a role for which they lack the resources and mental health training. AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE – explain the disputed portion DISAGREE – explain why Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff’s Office has incorporated on-going Mental Health and Crisis Intervention training (CIT) into our yearly training plan for over four years. 65% of our deputies have successfully completed and are certified in CIT. Our comprehensive approach to these issues also includes Integrating Communications, Assessment and Tactics (ICAT) training which stresses de-escalation and communication strategies for resolving incidents involving persons in crisis. Additionally, in 2014 our office partnered with Health Services Agency (HSA) and implemented the Mental Health Liaison (MHL) program where MHL clinicians are imbedded into our Patrol Division and respond with deputies to incidents involving emotionally distressed persons.

The Rountree Detention Center provides inmates with construction skills training. This training could be effectively applied to the building of tiny homes or other structures that could provide much needed housing. AGREE PARTIALLY DISAGREE – explain the disputed portion X DISAGREE – explain why Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Rountree inmates are provided only basic, entry level craftsman skills.