Miami Lakes is set to enhance its mental health crisis response capabilities following a recent government meeting that highlighted the success of the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program. Over the past 24 years, more than 9,500 officers from the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office (MDSO) and local law enforcement agencies have undergone specialized CIT training. This program equips officers with the skills to identify mental health issues, de-escalate crises, and divert individuals to appropriate treatment rather than arrest.

During the meeting, officials emphasized the importance of mental health training for law enforcement, noting that CIT officers respond to approximately 20,000 mental health crisis calls annually. In 2024 alone, MDSO and the City of Miami handled over 11,000 crisis calls, resulting in nearly 9,000 individuals being transported to crisis facilities. Impressively, only 19 arrests were made during this period, showcasing the program's effectiveness in diverting individuals from the criminal justice system.

The meeting also underscored the collaborative efforts between law enforcement and mental health providers, with partnerships established across 36 agencies. These collaborations aim to create a comprehensive support network for individuals in crisis, ensuring they receive the necessary care and resources.

Miami Lakes now has its own CIT coordinator, Deputy Amador, who will lead local initiatives and serve as a resource for community members seeking assistance. The CIT program's quarterly collaboration meetings, which attract around 100 participants, provide a platform for networking and sharing best practices among law enforcement and mental health professionals.

The success of the CIT program has led to significant reductions in jail populations, with the average daily census dropping from 7,200 to 4,400 inmates, resulting in substantial cost savings for taxpayers. This initiative not only benefits individuals with mental health issues but also enhances community safety by providing alternative responses to crises.

As Miami Lakes continues to develop its mental health response strategies, the community can expect to see further improvements in how crises are managed, ultimately fostering a safer and more supportive environment for all residents.