NCJ Number
198067
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 26 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2002 Pages: 78,80,83
Date Published
October 2002
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article addresses the ways that police officers should approach the handling of emotionally disturbed persons (EDPs).
Abstract
Focusing on emotionally disturbed individuals, this article discusses the cautions that police officers should exercise when approaching such persons. After arguing that emotionally disturbed persons (EDPs) present challenges to law enforcement officials due to their sometimes bizarre and often unpredictable behavior, the author explains how law enforcement officers are ethically and legally obligated to handle a mentally disturbed person in an empathetic, humane manner. Contending that an officer’s safety and the welfare of the EDP are both dependent on the police officer gathering information during his or her encounter with the EDP and recognizing the signs of an EDP, the article maintains that it is important for a police officer to recognize that alcohol, drugs, and medications may also be responsible for seemingly inexplicable behaviors in people. Following a discussion of the dangers of approaching an EDP alone, the author suggests following officer safety guidelines including using calming techniques and practicing patience and self-control when dealing with EDPs. The article concludes suggesting that every EDP taken into custody needs to be quickly examined by a medical or mental health professional in order to protect his or her life and to insure the continued safety of the police officer.