HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Honolulu Police Department is expanding its Crisis Intervention Team program to improve responses to mental health emergencies.
The effort brings together officers, mental health professionals and community advocates to deal with the mental health crisis emerging on Oʻahu.
The program trains officers to recognize signs of crisis, use empathy and apply strategies that calm tense situations. The training also emphasizes communication and safety for everyone involved.
One example took place in April 2024 when Officer Tiare Perry received Hawai‘i’s first Crisis Intervention Team Officer Award. Perry answered a call about a woman sitting on a 32nd-floor window ledge.
Though she feared heights, Perry used her training to connect with the woman and helped bring her to safety. Perry later earned HPD’s Certificate of Merit and First Responder of the Year award.
On Monday, Sept. 1, District 1 officers responded to reports of a woman drinking on a parking structure ledge. A trained officer joined the scene and guided her away after she expressed thoughts of ending her life.
Another case on Sept. 30, 2024, involved a man sitting on the H-3 freeway ledge. Officers noticed he began removing personal items and seemed ready to jump. Using their training, they helped him step away and made sure he received care.
“Moments like these define our purpose,” Interim Chief of Police Rade Vanic said. “Crisis Intervention Training gives officers the tools to protect lives while treating each individual with humanity and respect.”
For more information, contact Sgt. Corbin Matsumoto at Cmatsumoto2@honolulu.gov or 808-723-7715.
Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) is a collaborative program that goes beyond a week of officer training.
It connects police, mental health professionals and community advocates to improve communication, link people in crisis to appropriate services, and strengthen community partnerships.
The approach emphasizes de-escalation skills and ensures officers have the tools and support they need, leading to safer outcomes for everyone.