(The Center Square) — The Shreveport Police Department updated the public on their Mental Health Unit progress after the MHU began about a few years ago.
The SPD extended its efforts over the past few years to address mental health not only for officers but also for citizens in the city. A new update shows the department has made progress in identifying those in need of assistance.
A recent report shows that the Mental Health Unit recently identified 29 homeless people in the downtown area who received information about local shelters and resources they could utilize. To identify these individuals, the department is responding to calls and complaints while also patrolling Shreveport.
SPD Cpl. Chris Bordelon spoke with The Center Square about the Mental Health Unit’s goals and focus.
“Traditionally, law enforcement has focused on arresting individuals in response to behavior stemming from mental health challenges. However, we recognize that true public safety means addressing the root causes of these crises,” said Bordelon.
The department partners with Hope Connection Street Outreach when finding a camp in the city. They disbanded five camps recently and occupants were moved elsewhere.
The MHU was a result of Crisis Intervention Training implemented by the SPD and Shreveport Fire Department.
According to the Safer Shreveport plan, this mental health initiative was one of several the city worked on, including a violent crime unit, engine delivery for fire departments, summer programs for youth, workforce community development, SPD recruitment, Caddo-Shreveport crime stoppers and efforts from Property Standards.
“Our officers are working proactively to identify long-term solutions that reduce repeated interactions with the justice system. By prioritizing care over custody, we’re better able to meet the needs of our community and help individuals live healthier, more stable, and fulfilling lives,” said Bordelon.
Other stats show the MHU helped identify two homeless individuals who were involved in criminal investigations. One of these led to a felony arrest. The MHU has also been in contact with the Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse’s Mobile Crisis response team for two people who needed assistance and were homeless.
Apart from the MHU, Police Chief Wayne Smith updated the Public Safety Committee on Tuesday about cameras and park closing times. It would take six poles, each with three cameras, to adequately monitor Ford Park.
The department received a quote of $55,000 to install the poles, as well as around $3,500 to $5,000 per camera needed. Chief Smith said the cost is steep because of the work it would take the company to put the poles in and hook them up to power.
This funding would come from the Public Safety Fund if the department decided to pursue this project, pending the council’s approval.
