Maui Police to Launch New Crisis Intervention Team

Maui police, file photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

The Maui Police Department will launch a new Crisis Intervention Team Program this week, the first of its kind in the state, according to department officials.

Lieutenant Wayne K. Ibarra with the Maui Police Department’s Community Relations Section said the team will consist of three sergeants, 15 police officers, one supervising emergency services dispatcher, and one police chaplain.

The inaugural class will graduate during a ceremony on Friday afternoon, Jan. 18, 2013.

Members of the Crisis Intervention Team received part of their training from Dr. Dara Rampersad, forensic coordinator, of the Maui Community Health Center.

According to Lt. Ibarra, the CIT will handle incidents involving the mentally ill and those in crisis with care and expertise, ensuring that such individuals receive a response which is appropriate to the needs of the person involved.

“They are trained to interact with persons who are mentally ill, or are in an emotional crisis, and to de-escalate crisis events and move them away from violent outcomes whenever possible,” said Lt. Ibarra.

“Our dedication and compassion for our people of this community will always be a priority which gives us the strength and courage to carry out our mission statement and leaving a legacy for the future generation,” said Lt. Ibarra.