Cop Campus as a Behavioral Health Crisis Response Team Hub

The proposal for Cop Campus positions the County Behavioral Health Response Team as a key benefit, claiming it will effectively link law enforcement and mental health responses. However, this approach overlooks more effective, community-based models that could be implemented without the need for a new, costly facility. This critique is grounded in evidence that suggests the integration of mental health services within a policing framework often leads to inefficiencies and adverse outcomes.

• Inefficacy of Law Enforcement-Led Mental Health Interventions: The idea of housing a behavioral health team within a police training facility is problematic. Evidence from various studies shows that interactions between police and individuals experiencing mental health crises can escalate into violence. For example, data from the Treatment Advocacy Center suggests that individuals with untreated mental illness are 16 times more likely to be killed during a police encounter than other civilians approached by law enforcement.
• Bay Area Models of Community-Based Crisis Intervention: Models like the Mobile Crisis Team in San Francisco and the Berkeley Mental Health Mobile Crisis Team serve as exemplary alternatives that operate independently of the police. These teams consist of mental health professionals who respond to crises with de-escalation techniques and provide immediate, on-site psychological assistance. These programs have been shown to not only reduce incidents but also direct individuals to appropriate long-term resources and support, without the potential for police escalation.
• Resource Misallocation: The substantial funds proposed for the construction of the San Pablo facility could be more effectively allocated to these existing community-based programs. Enhancing and expanding independent crisis intervention services could provide broader coverage and more specialized care without additional police involvement.
• Successful Non-Police Interventions: The CAHOOTS program in Eugene, Oregon, provides a compelling case study. This initiative operates a non-police crisis intervention service that handles a significant portion of the local emergency calls. Their success in safely resolving incidents that involve mental health crises demonstrates a viable alternative to police-led interventions. This model not only mitigates risks but also reduces the city's expenditure by minimizing the involvement of law enforcement in non-criminal issues.
• Privacy and Civil Liberties Concerns: Integrating behavioral health services within a police framework raises substantial concerns about privacy and the potential misuse of sensitive health information. Independent mental health teams ensure confidentiality and trust, crucial components missing from police-involved responses.