Crisis Intervention Team Fall Graduates

The Portage County Crisis Intervention (CIT) Team fall training class had thirteen graduates. The goal of CIT is to improve safety during law enforcement encounters with people experiencing a mental health crisis, for everyone involved. The training program prepares law enforcement and dispatchers to respond safely and compassionately to people in crisis and to help link them to mental health resources.

The course covered de-escalation techniques, signs of suicide, mental illness, addiction, information about the speciality docket courts, and local resources. On the final day, practice the communication skills they've learned throughout the week in role plays before recieving their certificate and CIT pin to graduate.

Front Row (from left) Jessica Kerr, Ohio Department Of Rehabilitation And Correction,Dipatcher Emma Perry, Ravenna Police, Deputy Brian Mastrodonato, Portage County Sheirff's Office, Deputy Joshus Kindell, Portage County Sheirff's Office, Officer Justin Foster, NEOMED Police.

Back Row (from left) Christina Wood, Portage County Prosecutor's Office, Ashley Perry, Ohio Department Of Rehabilitation And Correction, Officer Alex Wain, Ravenna Police, Dispatcher Ami Bowery, Ravenna Police, Deputy Michael Hanna, Portage County Sheriff's Office, Dispatcher Mindy Long, Streetsboro Police, Dispatcher Frank Puz, Streetsboro Police, Paul Fisher, Portage County Juvenile/Probate Court.