Ellsworth Police Department Partners with Aroostook Mental Health Center to Enhance Public Safety and Mental Health Services
Ellsworth, ME — The Ellsworth Police Department is pleased to announce an innovative partnership with Aroostook Mental Health Center (AMHC) aimed at addressing mental health and social service needs within the community. This collaboration will bring social workers directly into the field to assist individuals during critical incidents, providing timely and specialized care to those in crisis.
“This initiative allows for a professional trained in social work to be directly involved at the time of an initial encounter,” explained Chief Troy Bires of the Ellsworth Police Department. “This benefits the individual in crisis by enabling a rapid plan and diagnosis. Once the scene is determined safe, it allows for the police officer to be available for other calls.”
AMHC was chosen as the program’s partner due to its resources and availability to partner with the Ellsworth Police Department and city. AMHC has established successful partnerships with other police agencies throughout the state.
This partnership with AMHC reflects the City of Ellsworth’s commitment to proactive solutions in response to the nationwide rise in mental health-related calls, which have overwhelmed police departments. The program ensures individuals receive the help they need while maintaining police resources for other public safety needs.
The first social worker will begin in January 2025. They will respond to all social service type calls with officers, remaining with individuals in crisis after the scene is secured, and assisting them until the situation is resolved or appropriate mental health resources are arranged. Future plans include adding a second social worker, so they operate on a schedule aligned with patrol officers.
The program’s initial funding includes support from AMHC for one position, while the Police Department will provide a vehicle, equipment, and necessary training.
As the program launches, both the Ellsworth Police Department and AMHC are committed to learning and improving. “We anticipate some challenges along the way, but this is an exciting opportunity to redefine public safety and mental health support in our community,” said Chief Bires.
For more information about this program, please contact the Ellsworth Police Department, Chief Troy Bires at (207)667-2168.
