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Linkage agreements between mental health and law enforcement agencies: Managing suicidal persons

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Abstract

Linkage agreements have been developed between community mental health and law enforcement agencies to coordinate management of mental health emergencies. This paper analyzes one such linkage and the ramifications for assisting individuals experiencing suicidal episodes. The results indicate that police officers are in fact called upon to manage persons threatening suicide and need further training to do so. Further, police officers do contact mental health providers for assistance and linkage agreements are seen as an asset by police.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Dept. of Law and Justice, Central Washington University, 98926, Ellensburg, WA

    J. Michael Olivero Ph.D. (Associate Professor) & Russell Hansen Ph.D., J.D. (Chairperson)

Authors
  1. J. Michael Olivero Ph.D.
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  2. Russell Hansen Ph.D., J.D.
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Additional information

This research was funded by a grant from the University of Texas Pan-American Faculty Research Council. 1990–1991.

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Olivero, J.M., Hansen, R. Linkage agreements between mental health and law enforcement agencies: Managing suicidal persons. Adm Policy Ment Health 21, 217–225 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00707487

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