Cities Implement Unarmed Response Teams for 911 Calls

Since George Floyd's 2020 murder, alternative response programs have expanded in cities across the United States. These initiatives involve mental health clinicians responding to 911 calls, often as an alternative to police officers. Approximately 100 cities have adopted such programs.

Rob Crisp works as a peer support specialist with Durham, N.C.'s Holistic Empathetic Assistance Response Team (HEART) program. He recently responded to a wellness check call at a parking lot in Durham. The HEART program dispatches specialists like Crisp to address various non-violent 911 incidents.

The expansion of these programs signifies a reevaluation of traditional public safety models. Communities are exploring methods to address certain emergency situations with non-law enforcement personnel, specifically mental health professionals. This approach focuses on de-escalation and providing appropriate care for individuals experiencing crises.