Each week, we compile and share stories from the past week focused on behavioral health, SUD, social services, and nonprofits centered in Michigan but across the United States. If there are specific topics that interest you, please let us know. This newsletter's information, content, and materials are for general informational purposes only. They do not constitute legal advice or investment advice. At times we may use AI to summarize an article. If something shared needs to be corrected, is misrepresented, or there are gaps in information, please let us know so we can make the necessary corrections.
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Detroit Police's Mental Health Unit Gaining Recognition
The Detroit Police Department has introduced a specialized mental health unit featuring officers who wear khaki green uniforms and are unarmed, a deliberate approach intended to de-escalate situations involving individuals in mental health crises.
Initiative and Leadership
Police Chief James White, who holds a master’s degree in counseling and is a licensed therapist, advocated for the creation of this unit. With support from Mayor Mike Duggan, the initiative aims to address mental health crises with a more compassionate and effective approach. Both officials discussed the unit's progress during a question-and-answer session at the Mackinac Policy Conference.
Incident Accounts
Chief White recounted an incident where an officer calmly approached an individual, removed a gun from the man’s waistband, and escorted him to a police car without using handcuffs. The officer's actions prevented potential escalation and ensured the individual was handled safely.
In another instance, an officer addressed a woman holding a knife by saying, “We’re a new unit. We’re a different kind of police. You sound intelligent and beautiful, and you deserve a chance.” This approach highlights the unit's focus on communication and empathy.
Addressing Mental Health Needs
Mayor Duggan emphasized the need for more mental health treatment facilities, including 72-hour psychiatric beds and long-term treatment options. He suggested that funds for these centers could be reallocated from the costs associated with imprisoning individuals with mental health issues. Currently, 25 percent of Macomb County inmates have a history of mental health hospitalization.
Duggan also mentioned the potential impact of eliminating the federal Medicaid Inmate Exclusion, which prohibits the use of federal funds for treating inmate mental health. He noted the increased commitment from the Governor and the Legislature over the past few years but acknowledged that more work is necessary to address mental health needs comprehensively.
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Detroit News
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ICYMI
Crain’s Grand Rapids Business, State health official lauds Grand Rapids mental health crisis unit as ‘a great model’
Healthcare IT News, By outfitting police with telehealth iPads, mental health program saves government $62M (Oklahoma)
A push to legalize drug test strips, protect 'harm reduction' tactics in Michigan, Bridge Magazine
EVENTS
CMHAM Fall Conference Traverse City, Oct 21-22
Upcoming Political Events
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June 12, Speaker Joe Tate - Spring Kickoff, Breakfast Fundraiser
Time: 9:00 am-10:00 am, Inside Knapp’s Building off Washtenaw, 300 S Washington Sq, Ste #110, Lansing, MI 48933, Ally $500 / Friend $1,500 / Supporter $2,500 /, Advocate $5,000 / Host $10,000. Please RSVP to: [email protected]
If you have an event you want to share, please get in touch with Daniel Cherrin.