Un subjefe jubilado aboga por mejorar la formación policial en salud mental

In light of a recent incident where a police officer shot and killed a man experiencing a mental health crisis, calls for enhanced training for law enforcement officials have intensified. The shooting of Dylan Murphy in Sandy, Utah, occurred after his family called 911 seeking help. The officer involved believed Murphy was armed, leading to the fatal confrontation.

Retired Deputy Chief Chris Bertram emphasized the urgent need for police officers to receive comprehensive mental health training. He argues that basic training is insufficient for effectively handling crisis situations. Officers must gain practical experience and ongoing education to recognize various mental health issues and respond appropriately.

“When responding to a crisis, understanding whether an individual has schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or is on the autism spectrum can significantly influence how officers interact with them,” Bertram stated. He believes that training should include strategies to de-escalate situations, wait for backup when necessary, and employ non-lethal options to avoid confrontations.

Syble Horn, the mother of Dylan Murphy, expressed her despair over the incident, stating that her son was seeking help at the time police arrived. She criticized the response of the officers, suggesting that there was no justification for the use of lethal force. “The system failed him. It should have been handled differently,” Horn remarked. She is advocating for improved training and oversight within police departments to prevent similar tragedies.

Bertram concurs with Horn’s assessment, asserting that meaningful change requires investment in training for officers. He urges city leaders to allocate resources, including overtime pay, to ensure officers complete necessary training programs. “This training is vital for the safety of our communities,” he added.

As law enforcement agencies grapple with how to effectively manage mental health crises, discussions around training and response protocols are becoming increasingly critical. The aim is to prevent future incidents and improve outcomes for individuals facing mental health challenges.