Waterford Township Police Department has recently added a mental health co-responder to their team, joining other police agencies in the area that already utilize this service. The co-responder, who is currently completing training through Oakland Community Health Network, will soon be working full time for Waterford.
Police Chief Scott Underwood expressed excitement about the addition, stating that a co-responder brings expertise in mental health that officers may not have, enhancing the quality of service provided by the department. The co-responder will accompany officers to incidents involving mental health or substance abuse and follow up on such incidents when off duty.
Although employed by OCHN, Waterford will reimburse the agency for the co-responder’s salary, benefits, and equipment. The co-responder will wear a bulletproof vest for safety but will not be armed, responding only after officers have secured the scene. By having a co-responder on staff, the department aims to decrease repeat calls for the same issues and offer better solutions by connecting individuals with available resources.
Co-responders across the country are known for their role in de-escalating and stabilizing situations involving individuals with mental health challenges. Waterford is among several other local departments, including Troy, Birmingham, and Royal Oak, that have implemented co-responder programs. Underwood noted the positive feedback received from departments already using this service, emphasizing the benefits it has brought to their communities.
