If you found yourself in a mental health crisis, would you want a police officer with a gun to help? Many people do not. Unfortunately, that’s often the reality when someone calls 911 for a mental health or behavioral emergency.
Typically, police respond to all emergency calls, but there’s a better option. What if trained professionals, equipped to handle these situations, were sent instead? This is where Alternative Emergency Response Programs (ARPs) come in. They focus on sending behavioral health experts to provide support without the presence of law enforcement.
In Allegheny County, the A-Team, run by the Allegheny County Department of Human Services and Resources for Human Development, is an example of this approach. This team handles non-violent crises by using professionals trained in de-escalation and crisis intervention. Importantly, they do not replace police or emergency responders; they collaborate with them to ensure the best outcomes.
Programs like the A-Team are gaining traction. For instance, Denver launched a similar initiative in 2020. In just six months, minor crime rates dropped by 34% in areas served by the program, according to a Stanford study. The cost for responses was also significantly lower—averaging $151 compared to $646 for traditional methods.
Here in Pittsburgh, there are pressing reasons to expand the A-Team’s reach. Less than five years ago, a man named Jim Rogers tragically lost his life during an encounter with police while he was experiencing homelessness. This incident highlights the need for trained professionals who can handle such sensitive situations better than police might. Many are raising the question: if police aren’t prepared for these crises, how safe are our communities?
Currently, the A-Team is still in a pilot phase. Since its launch in late 2024, it has grown but still serves only a small portion of Allegheny County. Each year, the county receives nearly 1.4 million emergency calls, but the A-Team has been able to respond to only around 1,700 of those. While they provide important support in 85% of cases, the fact remains that this is not enough.
As conversations about safety and community support evolve, it’s essential to advocate for a fully funded, county-wide program. Investing in mental health responses can make a significant difference in how our communities handle crises. People should be able to feel safe and supported when they need help the most.
The A-Team’s expansion represents a crucial step forward in shifting the narrative on mental health emergencies. With ongoing support and funding, this program could change lives.
For further reading on mental health initiatives, check out this comprehensive report from the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
