Baltimore Rethinks 911 Response with Mobile Crisis Teams
Baltimore is expanding its 911 response system to include mobile crisis teams that address mental health and other non-emergency situations. Inspired by similar models in cities like Durham, the initiative aims to divert calls from police to mental health professionals, reducing unnecessary arrests and improving outcomes for individuals in crisis. The program is part of a broader strategy funded by opioid settlement money to enhance city services and address public health issues. The mobile crisis teams have already shown success in reducing arrests and providing appropriate support to those in need.