Crisis Intervention Team
The Huntsville Police Department’s (HPD) Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) is a community partnership that brings together law enforcement, mental health professionals, individuals with lived mental health experience and family advocates.
Its primary goal is to help individuals experiencing serious mental health conditions access medical care rather than entering the criminal justice system due to illness-related behaviors.
WHO WE ARE
The CIT is a specialized law enforcement program designed for first responders handling crisis calls involving individuals with mental health conditions. CIT-trained officers receive advanced training to:
- Enhance safety for officers, the public and individuals in crisis.
- Use intervention strategies to connect individuals with mental illness to appropriate healthcare resources.
- Reduce unnecessary involvement of individuals in the criminal justice system.
HOW WE WORK
Research shows that people with mental illness are more likely to encounter law enforcement. Recognizing the difference between a mental health crisis and deliberate noncompliance or combative behavior is critical. CIT training equips officers with strategies to respond effectively, increasing the likelihood of positive outcomes for everyone involved.
Law enforcement continues to serve as first responders in crisis situations. As traditional mental health institutions have shifted toward community-based care, it has become increasingly clear that specialized strategies are needed. CIT represents a proven, community-based approach to supporting individuals experiencing mental health crises.
FUTURE OF CRISIS INTERVENTION
Approximately 40% of individuals with serious mental illness will be arrested at least once in their lifetime. Progressive law enforcement agencies, including HPD, are committed to providing alternatives to jail by connecting individuals to supportive services.
HPD has a dedicated team of Crisis Intervention Officers who work closely with families and caregivers to provide compassionate, real-world solutions. Through community-based policing, officers build trust and foster outcomes that prioritize help over punishment.
CRISIS INTERVENTION GOALS
- Resolve crises using de-escalation techniques
- Reduce the need for lethal force
- Minimize injuries to individuals in crisis and officers
- Prevent repeat visits to emergency rooms
- Divert individuals from jail when possible
- Reduce civil litigation
- Strengthen community relations
BENEFITS OF CRISIS INTERVENTION
- Immediate crisis response
- Decreased arrests and use of force
- Reduced officer injuries during incidents
- Identification and care for under-served mental health consumers
- Enhanced officer training in verbal de-escalation
- Lower liability for jail-related healthcare issues
- Cost savings for the community
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) | 1-800-SUICIDE
- National Youth Crisis Hotline: 1-800-442-HOPE (4673)
- NAMI Huntsville: 256-534-2628
- WellStone Behavioral Health: 256-533-1970
- Huntsville Hospital: 256-265-8123
- Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255
- Teens! Stressed Out? Text 256-722-8219
- Crisis Services Helpline: 256-716-1000 or 1-800-691-8426
CSNA | 211 Connects Alabama