Officers complete CIT training, police emphasize mental health

The Oxford Police Department congratulated Officers Johns and Dauler Thursday for completing Crisis Intervention Team training last week, saying mental health is a top priority for the department.

Crisis Intervention Team, or CIT, training equips patrol officers to recognize and respond to people experiencing mental health crises, emphasizing de-escalation, safety and referral to appropriate services. Departments nationwide use such training to improve outcomes during encounters that involve behavioral health issues.

The department said on Facebook that its partnership with Communicare MS, a mental health services provider, helps the police serve the community in different and unique ways. The post highlighted training as part of ongoing efforts to connect residents with care rather than defaulting to arrest or emergency detention when possible.

The department did not provide additional details about the training curriculum or future sessions. We will provide more information as it becomes available.