Mayville Police Chief reports rising emergency detentions and staffing challenges in January 2024

The City of Mayville's recent government meeting highlighted a significant increase in emergency detentions and mental health crisis calls, raising concerns about the local law enforcement's capacity to manage these situations effectively. In 2024, the agency responded to 5,254 calls for service, with a notable uptick in emergency detentions that have already accounted for 26 hours of overtime in January alone.

Chief of Police emphasized the ongoing collaboration with county social services to streamline responses to mental health crises, noting that the introduction of a crisis worker has yet to show its effectiveness. The chief pointed out that these emergency detentions can consume 10 to 15 hours of an officer's time, often leaving only one or two patrol officers available during peak hours.

In addition to mental health concerns, the meeting also addressed the department's proactive approach to traffic enforcement through state grants, which have led to increased safety on the streets. The chief reported that traffic grant deployments have been successful, resulting in more warnings than tickets, allowing officers to focus on community safety.

The meeting also touched on the urgent need for improved communication infrastructure within the department. The chief reported ongoing issues with the phone system, which hampers sensitive communications and the ability to upload critical information to the district attorney's office. Efforts are underway to enhance internet service, which is crucial for operational efficiency.

As the meeting concluded, the chief reassured the council that these issues are being actively addressed, with plans for further updates throughout the year. The discussions underscored the challenges faced by local law enforcement in managing increasing mental health crises while maintaining public safety and operational effectiveness.