St. Louis Crisis Intervention Team

The St. Louis Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) is a specialized program that trains police officers to effectively respond to individuals experiencing mental health crises. The goal is to de-escalate potentially dangerous situations, connect individuals to appropriate services, and reduce using force or unnecessary arrests. Officers learn skills to recognize mental health issues, communicate calmly, and collaborate with mental health professionals. This approach promotes safety for everyone involved and helps individuals get the help they need rather than just facing criminal justice responses. Ultimately, CIT fosters a more compassionate and effective law enforcement response to mental health challenges.