The Waltham Police Department is at the forefront of innovative mental health-centered law enforcement practices, setting a precedent for community policing in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. With the integration of certified mental health specialists — officially titled Jail Diversion Clinicians — into its ranks, the department has taken significant strides in the implementation of de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques.

Serving a population of over 64,000 residents, Waltham's officers are called upon to handle a diverse range of situations. In a March 14 interview with The Justice, Chief of Police Kevin O’Connell revealed that nearly half of all calls received by the department involve mental health components, underscoring the necessity of specialized intervention strategies.

The department’s focus on mental health intervention began in 2004 when it secured grant funding for a part-time mental health clinician. The introduction of the Clinical Incident Management System, which meticulously tracks calls and their associated needs, provided empirical evidence of the program’s efficacy. Over time, officers consistently logged incidents that highlighted the critical role of mental health professionals in law enforcement responses.

Recognizing the program’s tangible benefits, the department approached the Waltham City Council to advocate for additional funding to expand its mental health services. With support from Waltham Mayor Jeannette McCarthy, the city approved funding for a full-time Jail Diversion Clinician while retaining the originally grant-funded clinician. As the initiative demonstrated continued success, the program further expanded to include three full-time clinicians, ensuring broader coverage and enhanced community support.

The presence of Jail Diversion Clinicians has transformed the way the Waltham Police Department handles crisis situations. According to a March 5 report by NBC 10 Boston, these professionals proactively address the root causes of mental health crises and work collaboratively to find sustainable solutions.

Chief O’Connell emphasized the indispensable role these clinicians play, noting, “They make our jobs easier.” Jail Diversion Clinician for Waltham PD Emily Marini shared with NBC10, “I think we’re in a major mental health crisis. There is a lack of resources and a lack of support.”

This program offers more than just on-scene crisis intervention. It also contributes to a broader culture of de-escalation. O’Connell explained that simply having a civilian approach a residence alongside an officer can immediately alter the dynamics of an interaction. The presence of a mental health professional often facilitates a calmer environment, which in turn increases the likelihood of a positive resolution.

Clinician Emily Marini elaborated to NBC10 regarding the breadth of situations they encounter, stating, “It could be a bad day, it could be someone who is having a panic attack because of something stressful that happened, it could be someone that’s using substances.” Each case presents unique challenges, requiring tailored approaches to crisis management and support.

The Jail Diversion Clinicians currently operate during daytime and evening shifts, ensuring coverage during peak hours of activity. However, O’Connell indicated that at this juncture, overnight clinicians may not be as effective or necessary given the current structure of emergency response resources.

Additionally, while the Brandeis and Bentley University police departments function as independent entities, the Waltham Police Department remains available in a supportive capacity should either campus law enforcement agency require assistance according to O’Connell. This collaborative approach underscores the department’s commitment to holistic community safety.

Waltham’s proactive steps toward integrating mental health services into law enforcement exemplify a broader shift in modern policing strategies. By prioritizing de-escalation and mental health awareness, the city is improving public safety outcomes and setting a precedent for other municipalities seeking to implement similar reforms. As the program continues to evolve, Waltham PD’s model may serve as an inspiration for departments nationwide, demonstrating the profound impact of a mental health-centered approach to policing.