BC Arrest – Mental Health Training at RCMP
Date: June 23, 2020
Classification: unclassified
Fully releasable (ATIP)? Yes/No
Branch / Agency: RCMP
Issue:
CTV news has reported that a B.C. nursing student claims she was assaulted by a member of the RCMP during a welfare check earlier this year.
Proposed Response:
- We understand that a series of videos related to the ongoing civil matter were recently disclosed to all parties as per a court order. The RCMP respects the judicial process and we will file our official response as per the civil proceedings.
- We are committed to reviewing the materials and the allegations as it relates to the police officer’s actions to determine what other steps need to be taken.
- Safety of the individual and officer are always the top priority. We must also treat people with dignity and respect.
Background:
CTV news has reported that a B.C. nursing student claims she was assaulted by a member of the RCMP during a welfare check earlier this year.
Police officers are often the first responders on scene when someone is experiencing a mental health crisis. We have a critical role to play when responding and interacting with people living with mental health problems and illnesses.
While police officers are not medical professionals and cannot diagnose individuals, it is important for the police to have an understanding of mental health disorders, including their signs and symptoms, in order to conduct effective risk assessments and de-escalate a mental health crisis, wherever it is tactically feasible.
Addressing the mental health needs of individuals and communities requires empathy, patience and awareness on the part of first responders. Through crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques, many mental health crisis situations can be managed with decreased risk to the public and police officers.
- Date modified: