Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis has addressed recent comments by Michael Bullock, president of the Austin Police Association, who suggested that officers should stop responding to mental health calls. Bullock’s remarks followed the sentencing of former APD Officer Christopher Taylor, who was convicted for the fatal shooting of Mauris DeSilva.
Bullock expressed concern that officers are increasingly frustrated and scared about their role in handling mental health crises, especially following the high-profile trial. He posted a video on X Wednesday, urging officers to reconsider responding to such calls, citing fears about their ability to act within the confines of their training.
In response, Chief Davis reaffirmed the APD’s commitment to handling all community calls, including those involving mental health crises. She acknowledged the concerns raised by Bullock but emphasized the department’s ongoing efforts to develop a more comprehensive approach to mental health response. This includes working toward a co-response model that integrates mental health professionals with police to provide better support during crises.
While Bullock advocates for a shift in focus, suggesting officers should not be tasked with responding to mental health calls, he clarified that he was not calling for a strike but rather a re-evaluation of police responsibility in such situations. His view is echoed by the National Police Association, which supports the idea that law enforcement may not always be the appropriate first responders in non-threatening mental health incidents.
Stephen White, Division Chief of Austin-Travis County EMS, also weighed in, stating that EMS personnel, with their specialized training, might be better equipped to handle mental health emergencies when there is no immediate threat. However, he acknowledged that law enforcement’s involvement is necessary when danger is present.
The debate continues as Austin grapples with how best to address the needs of those experiencing mental health crises while balancing officer safety and effectiveness.
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