PRESS RELEASE
Aspen Police Department participates in co-responder conference
Local law enforcement agencies band together to address addiction, mental health issues
ASPEN, CO - In a proactive step to address the pressing issues of addiction and mental health in the community, the Aspen Police Department, Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office, and Snowmass Village Police Department have reaffirmed their commitment to the Pitkin Area Co-Responder Team (PACT). This renewed dedication comes on the heels of their active participation in the 5th Annual National Co-Responder Conference (CoRCon), recently hosted by the Omaha Police Department.
The conference served as a rallying point for law enforcement agencies, mental health professionals, and community partners nationwide, converging to tackle the escalating crisis of addiction and mental health disorders, especially among vulnerable populations.
Aspen Police Chief Kim Ferber emphasized the critical role of programs like PACT in addressing these challenges head-on.
“Through PACT, mental health co-responders work hand-in-hand with law enforcement to provide immediate support and resources to those in need,” Ferber said. “By attending this national conference, we strive to remain on the cutting edge of co-responder services.”
Ferber and Pitkin County Sheriff Michael Buglione were among the attendees who actively engaged in discussions, learning from experts and sharing experiences to enhance their community-based approach. Snowmass Village Police Chief Brian Olson also ensured representation from his department, reflecting the collective commitment to combatting addiction and mental health issues.
Buglione emphasized the holistic nature of their mission.
“Our deputies, working closely with the PACT program, embody compassion and empathy, providing crucial intervention for individuals grappling with life's challenges,” he said.
Olson echoed that sentiment, stressing the significance of collaboration in addressing the complex issues of addiction and mental health.
“We all benefit by working together through the PACT program,” he said. “The joint nature of PACT supports the entire upper Roaring Fork Valley as we work together to strengthen our crisis response capabilities.”
As the Aspen area grapples with the increasing prevalence of addiction and mental health concerns, initiatives like PACT underscore the proactive approach of local law enforcement in safeguarding community well-being.
PACT is overseen by Kayla Bailey, the Mind Springs Health program director.
“Mind Springs and the PACT team are grateful to be a part of a community of law enforcement partners who truly prioritize mental health,” she said. “We look forward to bringing back information learned at this conference to continue to strengthen our support and commitment to our community.”
The PACT Program has been operating in Pitkin County for over five years with the goal of connecting individuals who come into contact with law enforcement and have mental health or substance use needs to the appropriate community resources, while reducing unnecessary jail stays and hospitalization. In 2023, 288 unique individuals were served by PACT with over 1,700 follow-up wraparound services.
“Mental health and substance use have been a top community health priority in Pitkin County and implementing the PACT program has been instrumental in helping address this issue for hundreds of people each year and strengthening our systems and partnerships in the community,” said Pitkin County Public Health Director Jordana Sabella.
For more information about the International Co-Responder Alliance, please visit https://www.coresponderalliance.org/CoRCon.
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For more information, please contact:
Bill Linn, Aspen assistant police chief
Phone: (970) 429-1803
Email: Bill.linn@aspen.gov
Carolyn Sackariason, Communications Co-manager
Phone: (970) 319-2791
Email: Carolyn.sackariason@aspen.gov