Cape Girardeau Co-Responder Program brings mental health professionals to the front lines

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) – A new Co-Responder Program between the Cape Girardeau Police Department and the Community Counseling Center aims to provide rapid mental health help to those experiencing a crisis.

Now, within a few patrols, Cape Girardeau Police will have someone on their side.

“Responding with law enforcement to calls related to behavioral health,” said Savannah Martin.

Savannah is a licensed clinical social worker. She is also the program director for the Behavioral Health Crisis Center. They will have trained mental health professionals who will join the police in responding to mental health calls.

“They will get training from both the law enforcement side and the mental health side, to make sure they are ready to respond to these calls,” Martin said.

Corporal Ryan Droege of the Cape Girardeau Police Department is excited to bring this program to Cape Girardeau. He said they have seen larger cities use similar programs in recent years, and have been watching.

“I think it’s necessary in every community,” Droege said.

When co-responders are not on a call, the program allows them to go out into the community and be proactive.

“Hang out with them and talk to them, see what their story is and what’s going on with them in their lives,” Cpl. Drouge said. “See if there’s a way we can get them on a good path.”

Martin said people in crisis typically call 911. With this program, they will have a behavioral health professional in the field with law enforcement.

“It will really help provide a better response to those who are experiencing suicidal ideation, mental health crises, homelessness, whatever,” Martin said.

And when people make that call, responders can stay in touch after the initial response.

“Someone who signs up and says, ‘Hey, what do you think? Would you like me to take you there?’ so they can follow up on you,” Martin said.

According to Cpl. Droege, officers hope they can provide a better response to those who need it.

“We want them to get the help they need and live happy, healthy and productive lives,” he said.

the Community Counseling Center is actively seeking to fill the positions in order to start the program.

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