PORT ARTHUR, Texas — The Port Arthur Police Department is one of the latest agencies to relaunch their partnership with the Spindletop Center to provide better aid to mental health calls.
The A.S.A.P. Program stands for assist, stabilize and prevent.
The program was put into place two years ago, but due to COVID-19 and short staffing, it had to be cut.
Officers respond to an incredible number of calls every day, but every call is different every scene is different and officers must adapt.
Port Arthur Police Chief Timothy Duriso says there are other options for those facing mental distress.
"Everybody doesn't need to go to jail, if someone is facing a mental crisis. We want them to seek proper mental health care," Duriso said.
The program allows mental health professionals to ride along with officers.
Crisis Manager Thomas Smith says it's very effective.
"We are becoming a proactive force, what we are doing is we have always had to react to mental health situations," Smith said. "Now we help people in the judicial system who need our help."
After the police call is closed, the mental health team provides a follow-up call to check in.
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This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.