Pittsburgh expands police-mental health co-response program citywide

Pittsburgh Public Safety leaders are relaunching and expanding a co-response programme that pairs police officers with mental health clinicians. The initiative aims to provide specialised care for certain 911 calls. Funding for the expansion is already secured, including roles yet to be filled. The programme currently runs from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plans are in place to extend these hours. It will soon offer citywide coverage, with two dedicated police leaders overseeing the effort.

Each co-responder will work alongside an officer. The goal is to have six co-responders and six integrated responders in total. The programme seeks to reduce unnecessary arrests and cut down on emergency room visits.

Pittsburgh Police Chief Jason Lando stated the programme will improve the chances of individuals receiving proper treatment and support. Mayor Corey O’Connor called the system responsive, innovative, and focused on those in need. Community social worker Jaime Gribben-Mahoney once assisted a man hesitant to seek help due to past experiences with police. The expanded programme is designed to offer better care during mental health crises. It will operate with increased staffing and broader availability. Officials believe it will lead to more effective interventions and fewer unnecessary detentions.