The rollout is officially underway on a state-backed initiative helping police officers battle depression and other mental health issues.
The Caruth Police Institute at UNT Dallas is spearheading the launch of the Texas Law Enforcement Peer Network, a state-supported system created by Senate Bill 64 to help police officers have access to mental health support.
Irving Police Chief Jeff Spivey says it’s all app-based and totally anonymous. He says Irving has seen great results with similar networks in the past.
Six regional directors are needed to oversee the network statewide. Three are expected to be in place by spring, but Spivey says more state funding is needed to hire the other three. He says the initiative will make a huge impact, especially for smaller police departments that can’t afford the same resources as their larger counterparts.
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