Question 1) How do you plan on having the department handle situations involving individuals experiencing a mental health crisis, and what partnerships do you plan on building with mental health services?
Answer – A. One of my primary goals is to establish a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) within the Sheriff's Office. The team would consist of specially trained deputies who are equipped to handle mental health crises effectively. The CIT would receive training in de-escalation techniques, mental health awareness, and crisis management strategies. The goal is to ensure that our deputies can respond appropriately when encountering individuals experiencing mental health issues, reducing the likelihood of escalation and ensuring that individuals receive the help they need.
B. Collaborate with Mental Health Professionals
I would like to foster partnerships with local mental health organizations and professionals. By collaborating with these entities, the Sheriff’s Office can create a network of resources that can be mobilized during crisis. This would lead to establishing protocols for when and how to involve mental health professionals in crisis situations, ensuring individuals are directed towards appropriate care rather than being arrested or detained unnecessarily.
C. Implement Training Programs for All Deputies
This goal involves developing ongoing training sessions that cover topics such as signs of mental illness, effective communication strategies, and understanding the legal rights of individuals with mental health conditions. By equipping all deputies with this knowledge, the Sheriff's Office can create a more informed approach to handling incidents involving mental health.
D. Develop Community Outreach Programs
Creating community outreach programs aimed at educating the public about mental health issues is another important goal.These programs could include workshops, seminars or informational campaigns designed to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness and promote awareness of available resources. These resources could include crisis hotlines, local clinics, support groups and emergency services specializing in mental health care. Ensuring that deputies have access to this information during calls can facilitate quicker responses and better outcomes for those in crisis.
Question 2) If elected, what is your vision for the sheriff’s office over the next few years, and what do you feel are the key challenges and opportunities facing law enforcement today?
Answer - A. My first priority as Sheriff will be to reduce our violent crime rate, improve trust and relationships and increase the number of deputies per shift.
B. I feel the number one problem facing law enforcement today is public trust. However I know that we can change this stigma by working closely with the communities we serve. By partnering with civic groups and local churches, we can build trust relationships. Being transparent on cases involving trust gives the community a chance to voice their concerns and feel like they are being heard on key issues.
Question 3) If elected, how do you plan to involve the community in discussions about public safety and student safety at school, and what forums or programs will you offer to residents to voice their concerns?
Answer – A. I plan to improve community discussions through the creation of community forums, town hall meetings, or listening sessions where residents can voice their concerns, ask questions and provide feedback. Through these forums we can frame discussions around specific issues or challenges rather than general grievances.
B. Highlight success stories, share positive outcomes from community policing initiatives or successful collaborations between law enforcement and community members.
C. Utilize technology to leverage social media platforms, community apps, and online surveys to encourage broader participation and gather feedback.
D. Virtual meetings can also increase accessibility for those unable to attend in person.
Political advertisement paid for and approved by Anthony Williams, No Party Affiliation, for Hamilton County Sheriff.