05/10/2026
The District Attorney gave opening remarks at The Kansas Law Enforcement Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) weeklong, 40 hour training this week, hosted by the Gardner Police Department. The CIT program is a collaborative partnership involving law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office, mental health and addiction professionals, individuals with lived experience of mental illness and/or substance use disorders, their families, and community advocates.
This innovative, first responder model provides specialized, police based crisis intervention training to help individuals experiencing mental health or addiction-related crises access appropriate mental health treatment rather than enter the criminal justice system due to illness-related behaviors. The program also prioritizes the safety of both officers and the individuals in crisis.
This morning kicked off our Fall Basic Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Course, hosted by the Gardner Police Department at the Gardner Justice Center!
We are excited to welcome 40 professionals from across the area for a week of learning, collaboration, and connection. Throughout the course, participants will build skills and knowledge that support CIT’s mission of promoting education, advocacy, and problem-solving within our communities.
The class was welcomed this morning by Gardner Police Chief Kelly Herron, Deputy Chief Brittanie Pruitt, Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe, and Johnson County Mental Health Center Director Tim DeWeese.
CIT works because it is truly a collaborative effort. Law enforcement, mental health professionals, prosecutors, advocates, community partners, and other disciplines each bring an important perspective to the table. By learning together and strengthening these partnerships, we can improve how our communities respond to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.
We’re looking forward to a great week of training, conversations, and new connections!
Education. Advocacy. Collaboration. Better outcomes for our communities.
