Summary
The aim of this project is to investigate and evaluate what responses might be implemented to reduce the incidence of violence when police encounter mentally ill persons. The cost of any incident ending in the death of an emotionally disturbed person at the hand of a police officer is extremely high. For example, the public's confidence in the police is shaken. The public is left to wonder if the police are not equipped to deal with these individuals in a safe, effective manner. The public becomes distrustful of police officers and reluctant to cooperate with them. This public resentment is difficult to deal with and results in further isolation of the police from the community they are entrusted to serve and protect. This action places a strain on the mental health community and, in tangible ways, on the surviving family of the victim. The family may potentially look for justice through the courts. Large police agencies have the means to defend members with top quality litigators. Defending the rights of the police officers may thwart attempts of the family and the public to properly come to terms with the incident.