Fayetteville police have taken a proactive step to protect the community’s most vulnerable members by expanding the Crisis Intervention Response Team (CIRT). The program, now in its fifth year, pairs sworn officers with social‑service advocates to answer mental‑health calls in a compassionate, non‑criminalizing manner.
How CIRT Works
Each CIRT unit consists of a police officer and a social‑service advocate who bring complementary expertise to the scene. Advocates provide “knowledge based on mental health, signs and symptoms,” explaining to officers the best way to interact with individuals experiencing a crisis. “If we can’t engage the person directly, we advise law enforcement on the safest, most effective approach,” said Melissa Gute, a Fayetteville social‑service advocate.
Early Successes
Sergeant Brandon Jones and Advocate Gute have responded to roughly 20 calls together over the past few months. Jones noted that the presence of a social worker eases the stigma many citizens feel toward law enforcement. “When a social worker is there, people understand this isn’t about arrest; it’s about talking and helping,” he explained. The partnership has already opened doors for individuals who might otherwise have avoided seeking assistance.
Follow‑Up and Community Outreach
Beyond the initial response, CIRT advocates conduct follow‑up outreach, contacting individuals to inform them of available resources such as counseling, housing assistance, and substance‑abuse programs. The team reports growing awareness of the service and encourages residents to use it when appropriate.
“If there’s an immediate danger, call 9‑1‑1. But for non‑emergency situations where a social‑service advocate could help, callers can reach the crisis team through the non‑emergency line,” Gute advised.
Looking Ahead
Currently, CIRT operates Monday through Friday. Both Jones and city officials hope to expand coverage to include weekends, ensuring that help is available whenever a crisis arises. The program’s growth reflects Fayetteville’s commitment to public safety that respects individual dignity and family stability.
How to Reach CIRT
Residents can contact the Fayetteville Police Department at 479‑587‑3555 or email [email protected] to request assistance from the Crisis Intervention Response Team.
The expansion of CIRT underscores the city’s dedication to a compassionate, faith‑grounded approach to public safety—one that safeguards families, upholds individual liberty, and honors the community’s Christian values.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
