Concerns diversion from criminal prosecution for persons with mental illness under certain circumstances.
Should A1847 be enacted, it could significantly alter how law enforcement interacts with individuals experiencing mental health issues. By diverting potential offenders into treatment instead of pursuing criminal charges, the bill aims to reduce the stigma and consequences associated with mental illness within the legal system. Officers will have discretion in filing charges against individuals displaying behaviors linked to mental health crises, promoting a preference to delay or forgo criminal complaints when treatment is deemed more appropriate, unless the situation involves violence.
Assembly Bill A1847 addresses the diversion of individuals with mental illness from the criminal justice system to appropriate behavioral health treatment services. The law mandates that law enforcement officers receive specialized training to recognize and respond to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. This training, provided through a program called the Crisis Intervention Team - New Jersey Center of Excellence Program (CIT-NJ), aims to equip officers with the skills necessary to de-escalate situations that could lead to criminal charges. The bill requires that a certain percentage of law enforcement personnel be trained, aiming for at least 20% based on agency size and community needs.
Despite its potential benefits, A1847 has faced criticism regarding its implementation and the necessity of diversion over criminal charges. Concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of training for law enforcement officers, particularly regarding their ability to handle complex mental health situations. Additionally, questions arise around the adequacy of available treatment options and whether sufficient resources exist to support the increased demand for mental health services due to the bill's provisions. The potential for varying interpretations of 'mental health crisis' by officers may also lead to inconsistencies in application and effectiveness of the law.