NJ program brings together law enforcement, mental health professionals

The Alternative Responses to Reduce Instance of Violence and Escalation (ARRIVE) Together program has expanded to become the nation's first "statewide law enforcement and mental health alternative response program," according to a press release.

This program brings together law enforcement and mental health professionals to de-escalate crisis situations without the use of force.

University Behavioral Health Care at Rutgers Health runs ARRIVE Together of Middlesex County. Sharon Smith-Kemper, program manager of Middlesex County Acute Psychiatric Services at Rutgers UBHC, talked about the importance of the program.

"When intervention occurs early, people in crisis can access appropriate treatment and support before their symptoms worsen, leading to better immediate outcomes and reducing the likelihood of repeat crises," she said.

The program can be initiated in various ways, including through a police request or a 911 dispatcher. Mental health professionals are then dispatched from the specific county's Designated Screening Center.

Smith-Kemper said that this program enables law enforcement to respond more sensitively when an individual is going through a crisis. This helps reduce tensions and increase understanding between the professionals and the individual.

Overall, this program aims to build trust between local communities and their law enforcement agencies by making them feel safe and supported.