Four members of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) have successfully completed Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training, underscoring a commitment to compassionate responses to mental health crises within the community. The training, held at the Island Creek K9 Training Facility in Calvert County, saw Correctional Officers Donald Murphy and Dylan McCoy, along with Deputies Richard Stillwell and Myles Chase-Johnson, graduate from the intensive program on November 1, 2024.
The CIT program brings together law enforcement personnel, mental health and addiction professionals, and community members affected by mental health and addiction issues. Its mission is to promote an informed and compassionate response to crises, enhancing officers’ ability to manage incidents involving individuals with mental health challenges effectively and safely.
Program Goals and Community Impact
CIT programs nationwide focus not only on training officers but also on improving the entire crisis response system. These programs strive to advocate for essential services, forge stronger community connections, and address issues collaboratively. The CIT model emphasizes the importance of communication, resource access, and problem-solving, all of which contribute to reducing the stigma around mental health while potentially lowering the need for further criminal justice interventions.
In Southern Maryland, the CIT initiative is a collaborative endeavor that includes the Sheriff’s Offices and Health Departments of St. Mary’s, Charles, and Calvert counties, along with the Maryland State Police and other allied agencies. Under the leadership of Captain Sarah Smith, who serves as the CIT Commander, the program operates with Alexis Higdon, NCC, LCPC, as the CIT Coordinator, and Sergeant Anthony Whipkey as the SMCSO Law Enforcement CIT Coordinator.
Training Overview and Key Components
The training program covered a comprehensive curriculum, focusing on areas that frequently intersect with law enforcement duties. Participants received in-depth education on mental health law and emergency petition procedures, allowing them to navigate legal aspects related to mental health crises. Additionally, the curriculum addressed techniques in verbal de-escalation, recognition of traumatic brain injuries, and understanding developmental disabilities.
During the sessions, officers had the opportunity to engage with individuals and families directly impacted by mental health and substance use challenges. These personal stories provided a nuanced understanding of the struggles many face, encouraging empathy and fostering a greater connection with community needs. Role-play scenarios enabled officers to practice de-escalation techniques in real-world situations, emphasizing a calm, measured approach and reinforcing decision-making strategies that prioritize the safety and dignity of all involved.
SMCSO’s Commitment to Crisis Intervention
By dedicating themselves to the CIT program, Officers Murphy, McCoy, Stillwell, and Chase-Johnson have strengthened the Sheriff’s Office’s capacity to handle mental health crises with sensitivity and professionalism. Their graduation from this program signals SMCSO’s ongoing commitment to public safety, underscoring the value of empathy and specialized training in policing.
With these additional skills, the graduates join a growing number of law enforcement professionals equipped to respond more effectively to mental health incidents. Their training aims to reduce escalations that could lead to unnecessary arrests, focusing instead on connecting individuals in crisis with the appropriate mental health resources.
CIT programs have proven beneficial across communities by addressing mental health crises with more than just conventional law enforcement approaches. Through education, awareness, and practical skills, these programs aim to build stronger, more resilient community relationships and support systems that work collaboratively to ensure the well-being of all citizens.
