South OC Times

The Orange County Sheriff's Department has announced a new partnership with the OC Health Care Agency (HCA) aimed at providing better support for individuals in crisis situations. As part of this initiative, the Sheriff's Department will be triaging non-violent and non-criminal behavioral health and homeless-related calls for service to determine if they can be diverted to OC Links, the 24-hour Behavioral Health Line operated by OC HCA.

Orange County Sheriff-Coroner, Don Barnes, emphasized the importance of connecting individuals in need with expert behavioral health support, stating, "When an individual is experiencing homelessness or a mental health crisis, our goal is always to provide the most effective response possible." The diversion program is designed to ensure that individuals receive the best resources available for their specific needs.

Dr. Veronica Kelley, Director of Behavioral Health Services at OC Health Care Agency, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, "This partnership between the Orange County Sheriff's Department and OC Health Care Agency exemplifies our commitment to providing comprehensive support for individuals in crisis." By integrating law enforcement and behavioral health expertise, the initiative aims to address the complex needs of the community more effectively.

The collaboration between the two agencies also involves the deployment of Behavioral Health Bureau teams in partnership with OC HCA Psychiatric Emergency Response Teams (PERT), which are responsible for proactively contacting and supporting individuals experiencing mental health crises and homelessness in the community. These teams work to connect individuals with resources such as housing programs, counseling services, and other support services.

The public can access OC Links 24/7 by calling (855) 625-4657, providing a valuable resource for individuals in need of assistance. The program signifies a proactive approach by the Orange County Sheriff's Department and OC Health Care Agency to provide comprehensive support for those facing mental health challenges, homelessness, and similar crises.