Alexandria CIT: 16 New Officers Complete 40-Hour Crisis Training

Sixteen first responders in Alexandria completed a 40-hour certification program this spring, joining a cohort that has grown since the city launched its Crisis Intervention Team in 2010. The curriculum focuses on de-escalation techniques and trauma-informed communication for police, fire, EMS, and dispatch staff.

The training extends beyond classroom instruction to include direct community engagement. Participants visited the West End Wellness Center, a day support program for residents with serious mental health conditions. During the visit, the new officers shared a meal with program members and observed daily routines.

Yinka Olarinde, the CIT Coordinator, stated that the goal is to form stronger relationships between first responders and behavioral health specialists. She noted that these integrated lunches help bolster positive exchanges and debunk stereotypes. Olarinde said the program aims to bridge communication gaps to improve interactions between city staff and residents.

The city has trained hundreds of personnel since the program’s inception. The approach is designed to reduce unnecessary arrests and decrease the use of force. Officials describe the initiative as a method to ensure individuals in crisis access care that prioritizes safety and dignity.

The City of Alexandria positions the CIT as a nationally recognized model for improving response to behavioral health crises. The program integrates law enforcement with medical and mental health professionals to create a collaborative problem-solving framework for on-scene emergencies.