Responding and Helping: The Erie Police Department's Crisis Intervention Unit – Exploring What It Is, and Why It Matters
In May 2023, the Erie Police Department relaunched its 24-hour Crisis Car Unit, and with it the department's Crisis Intervention Unit, after a nearly two-decades-long absence. Staffed by professionally trained police officers working along side crisis service workers and in partnership with UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor, the unit's primary function is to work with the mental health community – from being first responders, to providing referrals. Lt. Jamie Russo, who directs the unit, will discuss its launch, its impact, and its future.
*Community Conversation (Free)
*If purchasing a lunch, please register 48 hours in advance. Thank you!
Location: Jefferson Educational Society - 3207 State St, Erie, PA 16508
Date/Time: Friday, March 21, 12pm to 1:30pm
Admission: Free; Lunch optional, $5/person (Vegetarian option available)
Jamie Russo has dedicated over 30 years to law enforcement and community service. The last 23 years have been with the Erie Police Department where he currently serves as a Lieutenant of Special Operations, overseeing the Community Outreach Program and supervising the Family Crisis Unit, Saturation Unit, and K9 Units. He is currently a member of the New American Council and Strengthening Police Community Partnership (SPCP).
Prior to working for Erie Police Department, Jamie started his law enforcement career in Columbia, South Carolina, working for the Richland County Sheriffs Department. He worked Patrol and was soon promoted to Corporal of the Community Action Team (CAT) and earned a position on the Special Response Team (SRT).
Prior to his work at EPD, Jamie spent several years in the mental health field working for Case Management Support Services as an Intensive case manager for the Erie Warren Project and a resource coordinator supervisor.
Jamie holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice with a minor in Physical Education from Edinboro University.
