During a recent meeting of the Community Corrections Advisory Board in Indianapolis, a significant proposal was introduced aimed at enhancing crisis intervention capabilities within the Marion County Community Corrections (MCCC). Team leader Alyssa Smith shared her initiative to establish a dedicated Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) composed of MCCC staff. This initiative seeks to address lower-level crises that may arise in the office, particularly involving clients who may struggle with mental health or substance abuse issues.

The proposal emphasizes the importance of managing these situations internally, reducing the need for law enforcement intervention, which can sometimes escalate tensions. Smith highlighted that having uniformed officers respond to such incidents can inadvertently heighten anxiety for clients, making it crucial for MCCC to develop its own resources to handle these scenarios effectively.

Smith's proposal has garnered support for its thoughtful approach and the groundwork she has laid in connecting with training resources, including the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD). The board expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, recognizing its potential to improve client interactions and outcomes.

In addition to the CIT proposal, discussions included the current status of crisis intervention training among detention staff, with many already having undergone training but without a formalized CIT structure in place. The board acknowledged the need for dedicated teams to enhance the support provided to clients in crisis.

As MCCC moves forward with this initiative, it aims to foster a more supportive environment for individuals facing challenges, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of effective community corrections and rehabilitation. The board plans to hold further meetings to discuss the logistics of implementing the CIT team, marking a proactive step towards improving crisis management within the community.