TYLER, Texas – The Smith County Sheriff’s Office announced a new mental‑health initiative for its deputies and other first‑responders, funded by a $120,000 grant from the governor’s office. The program, called Checkpoints, is designed to provide early‑stage support after potentially traumatic calls, such as fatal crashes, child‑abuse investigations and other incidents involving loss of life.
How the Checkpoints program works
Checkpoints will schedule regular check‑ins with participating personnel shortly after a critical incident. Those check‑ins are meant to identify signs of stress before they develop into a crisis. The sheriff’s office will also connect responders with counseling services, peer‑support groups and other resources. Family members of first‑responders will have access to similar support, recognizing that trauma often affects the whole household.
Partnership with R3 for specialized care
The agency plans to partner with R3, an organization that provides specialized counseling and resiliency retreats for first‑responders and their spouses. Some of the counseling will be covered directly by the state grant, while additional treatment may be billed to the responder’s medical insurance.
Implementation timeline
According to the sheriff’s office chief, implementation begins this month with a goal of having the program fully operational within 30 to 60 days. A sergeant emphasized that easy access to counseling and peer support can help deputies process traumatic experiences and maintain readiness on the job. “Use these resources, talk to someone, empty your box,” he urged his colleagues.
Why the program matters for Smith County
Smith County is one of six Texas law‑enforcement agencies selected for the grant, and it will be the first sheriff’s office in the state to roll out the Checkpoints model. By addressing mental‑health needs early, the department hopes to reduce burnout, improve overall well‑being and preserve the safety of both officers and the community they serve.
Community response
Local leaders and families have welcomed the initiative, noting that mental‑health support for those who protect the public is a vital component of a strong, resilient community. The program aligns with broader efforts across Texas to prioritize the welfare of first‑responders and to ensure that those who answer emergencies have the resources they need to stay healthy and effective.
The sheriff’s office will continue to monitor the program’s impact and will share updates with the public as it progresses.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
