Recent News in Law Enforcement
As we come to the end of 2022, an eventful year for law enforcement agencies nationwide, it is time to reflect on some of the successes. Congress has shown increased support for police this past year and provided supplementary funding for agency mental health resources needed to protect officers’ physical and psychological well-being. Meanwhile, Epic Recruiting plans to keep tabs on upcoming events and activities with regular blog updates related to PR undertakings.
As the holidays approach, we extend best wishes from Epic Recruiting that each law enforcement bureau is well-equipped with resources to have a safe season and a prosperous new year ahead.
Congress Passes Bill to Encourage
De-Escalation Training
The bipartisan bill passed by the House on Wednesday aims to reduce officer-involved fatalities by encouraging law enforcement agencies nationwide to adopt de-escalation training. If enacted, the bill will provide $70 million in grant funding each year to help officers receive proper instruction and resources concerning tactics used when facing individuals with mental health issues.
It will also mandate that the Justice Department build a curriculum, in cooperation with relevant stakeholders—from civil liberties groups to mental health professionals—to guarantee more effective training and better results in the future. This move could significantly decrease unnecessary deaths related to police activity and improve relations between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
National Police Week Announced - Virgil For Fallen Officers May 13th, 2023
National Police Week is a time to honor and celebrate the service of law enforcement officers across the United States. It’s a time to recognize not only those who have lost their lives while on duty but also provide an opportunity to reflect on their ultimate sacrifice and courage.
This year the event will commemorate National Police Week in person, with live events at the National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum in Washington D.C. These events will include the 35th Annual Candlelight Vigil, set for Saturday, May 13th. In addition, recently added names will be honored through readings at the vigil, ensuring that every officer is remembered for their courageous service and significant contributions.
The National Association for Police Organizations and Bureau of Justice Assistance Help Pass Mental Health Bill for Officers
NAPO scored a significant win on November 29th when the House voted overwhelmingly to pass the Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Reauthorization Act, S. 3846, by 389-22. NAPO has long advocated for the Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program (JMHCP), which was born from the Mentally Ill Offender Treatment and Crime Reduction Act (MIOTCRA).
As part of their goal of creating safer communities, NAPO invested significant time and effort into helping this bill move forward to ensure that it continued to provide much-needed crisis intervention teams and training programs for law enforcement officials. Additionally, support is to be distributed to corrections personnel so that they may better identify and respond to incidents involving people with mental health issues.
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