2016 Maryland Code
Public Safety
Title 3 - Law Enforcement
Subtitle 5 - Miscellaneous Provisions
§ 3-510. Police Behavioral Health Units in Baltimore City and Baltimore County [Section subject to abrogation].

THIS SECTION HAS MORE THAN ONE DOCUMENT WITH VARYING EFFECTIVE DATES.

(a) Behavioral health units established. -- To the extent practicable, on or before October 1, 2016, the Baltimore City Police Department and the Baltimore County Police Department each shall establish a behavioral health unit.

(b) Composition. -- A behavioral health unit shall consist of at least six officers who are specially trained:

(1) to understand the needs of individuals with mental health, substance use, or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders; and

(2) in cultural sensitivity and cultural competency.

(c) Development of training. -- Training for officers in a behavioral health unit shall be developed in consultation with the Behavioral Health Administration in the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

(d) Purpose. -- The purpose of a behavioral health unit is to respond to emergency calls involving an individual suspected of having a mental health, substance use, or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorder.

(e) Goals. -- The goals of a behavioral health unit are to:

(1) divert individuals with mental health, substance use, or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders into treatment instead of the criminal justice system; and

(2) prevent and reduce unnecessary use of force and loss of life in situations involving individuals with mental health, substance use, or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.