Law enforcement agents try to better understand mental illness

(WDAY TV) - Area law enforcement agencies are trying to learn all they can about mental illnesses and how to help inmates who suffer from it. Sam Cochran developed the Memphis Crisis Intervention Team, or CIT model.

He says it's important for law enforcement agents to understand mental illness, and work closely with mental health providers. Cochran says if the situations handled correctly, inmates with mental issues can recover.

“A better approach, a kinder approach, and a more understanding, empathic approach to crisis issues provides safety for the individually, but also for the officer and for the community.”

Another part of today's training is to learn how to identify mental illness, that way inmates can get the help they need.