What does CIT stand for in a law enforcement context?

In a law enforcement context, CIT stands for Crisis Intervention Team. This model is designed to improve interactions between law enforcement and individuals experiencing mental health crises. The main goal of a Crisis Intervention Team is to de-escalate situations involving mental health issues and connect individuals to appropriate mental health services instead of involving them in the criminal justice system unnecessarily.

Crisis Intervention Teams receive specialized training that equips officers with strategies for managing crises involving individuals with mental health issues. This training emphasizes communication skills, de-escalation techniques, and knowledge about mental health resources. Implementing CIT has been found to reduce arrests and enhance the safety of both officers and individuals in crisis, contributing to better outcomes for the community as a whole.