Police response questioned when 2 men die after being Tasered during well-being checks

Recent Tragedies Highlight the Need for Alternative Mental Health Crisis Responses

In a span of just six days, two men in Halifax lost their lives after being Tasered by police officers while in mental health distress. These incidents have sparked a critical conversation about the role of law enforcement in responding to mental health crises. Criminologists are pointing out that such tragedies underscore the growing concern that police are often not the most appropriate responders for these situations.

Understanding the Incidents

The first incident occurred on February 22, when a 25-year-old man experiencing a mental health crisis was Tasered by officers after allegedly becoming aggressive. Tragically, he passed away in custody. Just six days later, on February 28, a 37-year-old man, also in the midst of a mental health episode, met a similar fate. He too became aggressive with officers and was Tasered, leading to his death. Nova Scotia’s police watchdog has initiated investigations into both cases to determine the circumstances surrounding these deaths.

Experts Weigh In on Police Response to Mental Health Crises

Criminologists are urging Halifax officials to reconsider the role of police in mental health crisis response. Temitope Oriola, a professor at the University of Alberta specializing in police use of conducted energy weapons, emphasizes that police officers are not adequately trained to de-escalate such situations effectively. Moreover, the unpredictable nature of Tasers adds a dangerous variable, as it is unclear how an individual might react to the electrical discharge, which can be lethal.

Marcus Sibley, an assistant professor of criminology at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, echoes these concerns. He highlights research indicating that police are more likely to use force against individuals in mental health crises compared to those who are not in distress. This disparity raises serious questions about the training and protocols in place for handling such delicate situations.

The Broader Implications of These Tragedies

These incidents are not isolated; they reflect a systemic issue across many jurisdictions regarding how mental health crises are managed. The use of Tasers and other conducted energy weapons by police has long been controversial, with advocates pushing for alternative methods that prioritize de-escalation and safety. Mental health professionals and community advocates are increasingly calling for a shift towards specializing response teams that are better equipped to handle mental health emergencies without resorting to force.

Moving Forward: The Need for Reform

In light of these tragic events, there is a pressing need for reforms in how mental health crises are addressed. Expanding access to mental health services, training law enforcement in de-escalation techniques, and establishing specialized response units could significantly reduce the likelihood of such incidents occurring in the future. It is through a collaborative effort between policymakers, law enforcement, and mental health advocates that we can hope to prevent further losses and ensure that individuals in distress receive the care they need.