911 is often the first number people call when experiencing a mental health crisis. But when police officers answer that call — the situation can escalate, sometimes leading to police violence or even use of deadly force. Across New Jersey, two out of every three uses of force by law enforcement involve a civilian identified either as suffering from mental illness or under the influence. A new law enforcement pilot program seeks to reverse that trend by pairing mental health professionals with state troopers to respond to 911 calls for behavioral health crises. The pilot — called ARRIVE Together — is launching Dec. 2 in Cumberland County in partnership with state police and the office of the attorney general and could become a statewide model if it’s successful. Cumberland County Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae explains how it will work.
Cumberland County pilot program pairs mental health experts with state troopers on 911 calls
Cumberland County Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae explains how it will work
Raven Santana is an award-winning journalist with a passion for serving New Jersey’s diverse communities and a highly respected member of her own. Santana has served as correspondent/sub-anchor for NJ Spotlight News since 2018. She’s reported on the state’s business climate, health care issues, undocumented workers legislation and more. She also hosts New Jersey Business Beat with Raven Santana on NJ PBS. The first woman of color in that role, she has made it a mission to focus on often-overlooked aspects of business, from BIPOC ownership to gaps in equity and inclusion. Her recent accolades include being recognized in 2023 as part of COLOR Magazine's Power 40 Under 40 list, and in Perth Amboy Free Public Library’s 2nd Annual Women’s History Month Celebration, where she received a mayoral citation and the NJ Senate/General Assembly presented her with a Joint Legislative Resolution. She also serves on The WNET Group’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion council and is vice president of The Second Street Youth Center, based in Plainfield.