LAPD’s Crisis Response Program Under Scrutiny
A recent report from the city controller’s office has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the Los Angeles Police Department’s (LAPD) Systemwide Mental Assessment Response Team (SMART) program. The program, which pairs licensed clinicians with officers in unmarked cars, aims to provide a more nuanced response to mental health crises. However, the report suggests that clinicians are often forced to defer to armed patrol officers, undermining the program’s purpose.
According to Dinah M. Manning, chief of strategic initiatives and senior advisor in the controller’s office, the report found an “inherent contradiction” in the SMART program. Despite its goal of reducing the use of force, LAPD policy still requires armed patrol officers to clear the scene of potential threats before clinicians can intervene. This approach can lead to traditional police units taking charge, even in situations where no weapon is involved, such as a person threatening to commit suicide.
Shortcomings in the SMART Program
The report highlights several shortcomings in the SMART program, including the lack of specialized training for officers detailed to the unit. Additionally, the department has failed to properly track uses of force on mental health-related calls. The report also criticizes the LAPD’s use of force policy, stating that it “falls short” of best practices for dealing with people in mental distress. The policy only makes cursory mention of “vulnerable populations” without providing guidance on the dynamic realities of encounters with individuals in mental health crises.
Too often, the report notes, the outcome of SMART responses is that the person in crisis is placed on an involuntary 72-hour hold, rather than receiving more targeted support. This approach can be traumatic and stigmatizing, and may not address the underlying issues driving the crisis. The report’s findings are particularly concerning given the high number of police shootings in Los Angeles, with at least a third of all police shootings involving individuals with obvious signs of emotional distress.
Broader Implications for Mental Health Response
The controller’s report comes amid a growing debate about how officials should respond to emergencies involving mental health, homelessness, substance use, or minor traffic incidents. While the city has expanded its alternative programs in recent years, proponents warn that looming cuts in federal spending for social safety net programs could hinder efforts to scale up and have more impact. LAPD leaders have offered support for such programs, but caution that any call has the potential to quickly spiral into violence, necessitating the presence of officers.
As the city continues to grapple with the complexities of mental health response, it is essential to prioritize evidence-based approaches that center the needs and dignity of individuals in crisis. By re-examining the SMART program and investing in more comprehensive and nuanced responses, Los Angeles can work towards reducing the use of force and promoting more positive outcomes for all individuals involved. For more information, read the full report Here
Image Source: www.latimes.com
