DUBOIS – The Right Turn Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) from Clearfield and Jefferson counties celebrated the conclusion of its 14th, 40-hour training Oct. 1, 2024, with a ceremony at Penn State DuBois.
Commissioner Mark Humes from Jefferson County, Chief Gordon from Jefferson County Probation, Sgt. Gray Station, commander from the DuBois PA State Police, and Nicole L. Radaker deputy executive director of the Jefferson County Housing Authority recognized the officers for their hard work and dedication to the safety of their communities and the behavioral health needs of their residents.
A CIT is an innovative program of police-based crisis intervention involving community healthcare and advocacy partnerships based on an internationally recognized model developed by the Memphis, Tenn., Police Department.
Under this model police, probation and corrections officers and other criminal justice, mental health and first responders receive extensive training provided by community mental health professionals, family and consumer advocates and experts in related fields in responding to residents experiencing a behavioral crisis.
This year’s class included officers from the Jefferson County Jail, Clearfield County Probation, the Brockway Police Department, the DuBois Police Department, the Clearfield Regional Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, Nulton Diagnostic and Treatment and the Jefferson County Housing Authority.
Since 2012, the Right Turn CIT has had 186 graduates including: 47 police officers, 50 corrections officers, 19 probation officers, 11 domestic relations officers, CYS workers, D&A staff, 911 operators, MH workers, transporters and security officers.
Participants report using the skills they learn immediately and repeatedly on the job.
Graduates (front row) include: Kyle Zents, Taylor Haag, Gavin Thompson, Tonya Przybrowski, Molly Lord and Kristi Burkett, as well as (back row): Brandon Bumbarger, Dawnelle Bailey, Anthony Lash, Brandon Anderson, Ryan Sines and Jeremy Sawey. Missing from the photo is Beth Pirnick.