Officers learn to keep cool in tight spots

Mental illness, drug addiction, and alchoholism often walk together hand in hand. Considering the high rate of substance abuse in Western Ma. it's not surprising that mental illness is also prevalent. Before condemning someone with any of these problems, understand that, SOMETIMES, they can't avoid what they are doing, any more then a person with any disease can just stop the illness in it's tracks by wishing it were so. A person with a mental illness can truly believe they are actually living what their mind is telling them, that it is correct and accurate. No matter how bizaar we find that behavior to be.

The participating departments are to be commended. It's not easy to operate outside of traditional police training, but sometimes that's exactly what is needed. Creative problem solving is becomming a standard police tool, or should be. It's unfair to ask the police to deal with these complex issues on their own. The partnerships that were formed here will go a long way towards increasing the quality of life for Berkshire County. I would like to welcome these officers to the ranks of CIT officers around the world. Maybe I will see you at the national conference next year in Virgina Beach.

rickf wrote:

Mental illness, drug addiction, and alchoholism often walk together hand in hand. Considering the high rate of substance abuse in Western Ma. it's not surprising that mental illness is also prevalent. Before condemning someone with any of these problems, understand that, SOMETIMES, they can't avoid what they are doing, any more then a person with any disease can just stop the illness in it's tracks by wishing it were so. A person with a mental illness can truly believe they are actually living what their mind is telling them, that it is correct and accurate. No matter how bizaar we find that behavior to be.

Well said

rickf wrote:

No matter how bizaar we find that behavior to be.

Did you read that bizarre spelling of bizarre in Harper's Bazaar?

What a great idea! Train the cop to let down his guard so the crack-addled urban youth can draw a bead on him and shoot him between the eyes. Way to go, liberals!