New Bern, North Carolina, situated near the coast, is home to a little over 30,000 people.
The New Bern Police Department (NBPD) and RHA Health Services, Inc fully implemented a co-responder program in December 2021 intended on improving early identification and intervention for those individuals with behavioral health or intellectual and development disabilities who interact with police. The police department sees about 80% of its high utilizers routed through diversion with provided benefits and follow-up services. Cohort 2022.
Program Goals
As part of the grant funding, the NBPD intends to expand its co-responder program which partners police and behavioral health professionals to respond to those in mental health crisis.
The goals of the program aim to:
- Prevent unnecessary incarceration and/or hospitalization of individuals with behavioral health needs
- Provide alternative care in the least restrictive environment through a coordinated system-wide approach
- Prevent unnecessary duplication of mental health services
- Facilitate the return of law enforcement units to patrol activities
Key Partnership Organizations
RHA Health Services
Learn More
New Bern CIT Grant Press Release
New Bern Police Department 2022 Annual Report