In December 2020, police departments across Bucks County overlaid their response tactics with an eye toward incorporating human services and social worker advocates. Its success — measured by statistics that include a drop in 911 calls — has Bethlehem police implementing the same policy. Martina Albin provided the details for The Brown and White.

The shift in law enforcement focus has police officers collaborating with social workers in matters requiring de-escalation measures. Trained social and human services personnel (advocates) often accompany officers side-by-side to ease potentially volatile situations.

These engagements are often related to mental health issues, substance abuse, family discord, and domestic violence, training for which is sometimes out of the purview of on-the-street law enforcement personnel.

Rached Neff, Director of Human Services at the Bucks County Police Department, commented on the success. She said that said in the 11 months of the program, officers have referred 170 cases to advocates.

The Bethlehem police version of the same idea began October 1.

It’s also involving more than just the police department.

Bethlehem Public Defender Kimberly Makoul said she and her team are also using advocates with some of their judicial cases.

“When all of these services are in place, we have better outcomes for our clients,” Makoul said.

More on this collaboration between law enforcement (Bethlehem and Bucks County Police) and social worker advocates is at The Brown and White.