Calling Aurora police for help? Officers may show up with a social worker.
The department’s co-response initiative was outlined by APD officials during the Aurora Lions Club membership meeting at Eola Taphouse in Aurora.
Bridget Damschen, APD social work coordinator and Sgt. Scott Carter, Crisis Intervention Unit coordinator, spoke on how APD officers are pairing up with social workers to answer calls.
Aurora Lions president Randy Brown moderated the presentation. He said it celebrated a Lions Clubs International global Mental Health and Well-Being Week of Service from October 4-12, coinciding with World Mental Health Day October 10. “This week is dedicated to raising awareness, promoting mental wellness and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues through local service projects and community engagement,” Brown said.
Damschen said APD added the Crisis Intervention Unit (CIU) in 2020, in response to a growing need for crisis intervention services for individuals presenting in a mental health crisis that places them at risk to themselves or others.
CIU supports approximately 35 Crisis Intervention Team officers currently assigned to the Patrol Division. The CIU program staff consists of Sgt. Carter and four investigators plus Damschen, the police social work coordinator and four police social workers.
—Al Benson