The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office was recently awarded a $349,616 grant by the Community-Oriented Policing Services Office, U.S. Department of Justice, to implement Crisis Intervention Teams. The Sheriff’s Office will embed crisis counselors in its Emergency Communications center to assist call takers and dispatchers with crisis calls.

The project is titled, “Supported Crisis Communications Pilot Program,” and through a partnership with Texana Center, will provide services related to non-imminent risk behavioral and mental health care for individuals and their families and acquaintances who reside in Fort Bend County and who are experiencing a crisis situation.

“This effort will provide immediate assistance during any call where professional mental health services are absolutely necessary to assist people in distress and emotional crisis,” said Sheriff Eric Fagan. “It will lead to improved responses and immediate contact with skilled mental health experts who have the experience to help in these situations.”

As of November 28, 2022, 357 crisis intervention (CIT) calls have been made to the Sheriff’s Office dispatch center. The total year-to-date CIT calls total 5,000. These are emergency calls made to 9-1-1 and to the main dispatch call center by individuals in crisis and family or acquaintances who are deeply concerned about the welfare of any emotionally-disturbed person or family member.

Deputies who have received CIT training and who have exhibited the ability to de-escalate and manage crisis calls will still respond in the event a person requires transportation to a mental health facility or requires other contact services. However, the presence of skilled professionals at the call center will increase the likelihood that the most appropriate services will be available almost immediately, and callers will be able to speak with someone knowledgeable about mental health services, assistance, and interventions.

For a list of mental health resources, visit the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office Crisis Intervention Team web page or call 281-341-8540.