Rock County enhances law enforcement's response to mental health through information sharing

The Rock County Board meeting on March 13, 2025, focused on significant advancements in behavioral health initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for individuals with mental health needs who interact with the justice system. Kate Lester, the Human Services Director, highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Behavioral Health Information Sharing Work Group, which has been instrumental in fostering collaboration between behavioral health providers and law enforcement.

The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance information sharing to better serve individuals experiencing mental illness. Key interventions discussed include the implementation of a mental health flag within the Spillman law enforcement system, which alerts officers to individuals with a history of mental health issues. This system is designed to inform law enforcement responses, ensuring that officers are better equipped to handle situations involving these individuals.

Additionally, the group introduced the Crisis Strategy Information Sheet (CSIS), which requires client consent and provides personalized crisis plans for individuals. This plan includes vital information that can guide officers in their interactions, such as contact details for case managers and specific considerations for managing the individual’s mental health crisis.

Lester emphasized the importance of maintaining client rights and confidentiality throughout this process, ensuring that the information shared does not contribute to stigma or negative outcomes for individuals with mental health challenges. The initiative has seen a significant increase in the number of individuals flagged for mental health issues, growing from approximately 50 to over 500 in recent years.

The meeting also addressed the establishment of a co-responder model, which embeds crisis workers within law enforcement agencies. This model, initially piloted with the Janesville Police Department, has expanded to include the Beloit Police Department and the Sheriff's Office, further enhancing community safety and support for individuals in crisis.

In addition to these updates, the board discussed the dissolution of the official Evidence-Based Decision Making (EBDM) policy team, with plans to consolidate efforts under the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC). This change aims to streamline operations while continuing to report on progress and maintain collaboration with state initiatives.

The meeting concluded with discussions on pretrial programs and the challenges of managing violent offenses among individuals released on pretrial status. Board members expressed a desire for improved data and strategies to mitigate risks while supporting nonviolent offenders.

Overall, the meeting underscored Rock County's commitment to enhancing mental health support within the justice system and fostering collaborative efforts to improve community outcomes.