From the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department:

Sheriff Jeff Shaver Announces $200,000 ADECA Grant to Support Crisis Intervention Team in Cherokee County:

Sheriff Jeff Shaver is proud to announce that the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office has been awarded a $200,000 grant from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) to support a professional Crisis Intervention Team (CIT).

This vital funding will support a dedicated CIT officer, provide necessary equipment, and offer Crisis Intervention Training (CRIT) to law enforcement personnel. The program is designed to enhance the county’s ability to respond effectively to individuals experiencing mental health crises.

“As law enforcement officers, we often encounter individuals who are struggling with mental health or behavioral issues,” said Sheriff Shaver. “This grant allows us to better equip our deputies with the training and resources needed to handle these situations safely and effectively.”

A key component of the program will focus on training school resource officers (SROs) to work with at-risk youth. By providing SROs with specialized crisis intervention training, the initiative aims to improve interactions with students facing mental health challenges, helping to de-escalate situations and connect young individuals with appropriate support services.

“This training has proven to be effective in communities across the country,” Sheriff Shaver added. “By investing in crisis intervention training for our officers, we are taking a proactive approach to ensure safer outcomes for both law enforcement and the individuals we serve.”

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office is committed to improving public safety and addressing the mental health needs of the community. The CIT program is expected to be implemented in the coming months, with training sessions scheduled for officers throughout the county.