Empowering Officers: Retired Deputy Chief Advocates for Enhanced Mental Health Training in Crisis Situations

The decision not to charge a police officer who shot and killed Dylan Murphy during a mental health crisis raises serious questions about how police handle such situations. In 2023, Murphy’s family called 911 for help, but the response turned tragic when a Sandy police officer mistook a piece of furniture for a weapon.

When emergencies involving mental health arise, police are usually the first on the scene. This emphasizes the need for proper mental health training for officers. Retired Deputy Chief Chris Bertram emphasizes that basic training isn’t enough. Officers require real-life training and ongoing education. They must learn to recognize various crisis situations and understand how to respond appropriately—whether that means waiting for backup, staying calm, or using non-lethal methods.

Bertram notes that not every crisis is the same. “Is this person having a crisis because they’re schizophrenic or bipolar? Are they on the spectrum? We need to handle those individuals differently,” he explains.

Syble Horn, Dylan’s mother, believes the system failed her son. “Why shoot when there’s no reason? It should have been handled entirely differently,” she said. Horn advocates for improved training and oversight to prevent such tragedies. “I don’t want anyone else to experience this. It’s the worst thing that can happen to anyone.”

Bertram supports her view, stating that real change requires a commitment to better training. “I tell mayors and city councils: Invest the time and pay for officers to get the training they need. It’s crucial for our communities,” he urges.

A report from the National Institute of Justice indicates that approximately 25% of fatal police encounters involve individuals with mental health issues, highlighting the urgent need for better training. In many cases, proper de-escalation techniques could not only protect lives but also prevent trauma for families and communities affected by such incidents.

While police departments are starting to recognize the importance of mental health training, the implementation varies significantly across the country. Some departments have begun collaborating with mental health professionals to develop crisis intervention teams, but these efforts need to expand to ensure all officers are prepared for these complex situations.

Investing in ongoing education and community partnerships could create a safer environment for everyone involved. It’s a crucial step toward building trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.



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Mental health,Police training,Crisis response,Non-lethal tactics,Officer education,Oversight,Community safety,Real-world practice