Sheriff Sean Casey and three deputies were among the 22 public safety professionals recognized at a brief ceremony on March 3 for completing crisis intervention training (CIT).

Sheriff Casey, Master Deputy Hafsa Munir, Deputy Fidelis Asonglefac, Deputy Nicholas Nemard and their classmates each received a certificate and CIT uniform pin in recognition of successful completion of 40 hours of  training. During the program, Sheriff Casey acknowledged the CIT instructors and thanked them for their expertise and commitment.

Over the course of a week, participants learned skills such as suicide intervention and verbal de-escalation techniques, explored the role of the family in the care of a person with mental illness, and received legal training in mental health and substance abuse issues. They also participated in role playing exercises based on real-life scenarios so they could apply their new skills.

CIT was developed in collaboration with the Department of Community and Human Services, Police Department and Sheriff’s Office to help improve staff interactions and outcomes with persons with mental illness and substance abuse disorders. Alexandria’s program includes staff from all first responding agencies to ensure that a comprehensive, City-wide approach and Crisis Intervention Team is in place to assist those with mental illness.

Currently more than 80 Sheriff’s Office employees are CIT certified and use their specialized skills in the William G. Truesdale Adult Detention Center, at the Alexandria Courthouse and in the community.

Photo: (l-r) Sheriff Sean Casey, Deputy Fidelis Asonglefac, Deputy Nicholas Nemard and Master Deputy Hafsa Munir.