The Little Rock Police Department (LRPD) has indeed implemented a program involving social workers and Community Resource Officers (CRT) to improve responses to calls involving mental illness. This initiative represents a significant shift in the department's approach to such situations.
The program also reflects a growing trend in law enforcement to adopt more holistic, community-oriented approaches to policing, especially when dealing with mental health crises. By combining the expertise of law enforcement officers with that of mental health professionals, the LRPD aims to provide more effective and compassionate responses to these challenging situations.
Listen and enjoy as we discuss the newest addition to the department and hear from the supervisor and social worker as they discuss why this program has seen early successes.