The Madison County Sheriff's Office, along with the police reform and reinvention collaborative, released a draft plan on police reform in the county.
Officials say after getting feedback from the community, a main focus is on mental health.
Over the next three years, the Madison County Sheriff's Office says it's committed to having all of its full-time deputies receive Crisis Intervention Training (CIT). CIT trains officers on how to handle emotionally disturbed people in a number of situations in the community.
Another focus on mental health is a "call diversion policy" put together by the Madison County Mental Health Department and 911. This is expected to begin in March 2021.
Also found in the plan, the Sheriff’s Office says they will look into purchasing a new records management system that makes it easier to create reports on date and demographics. Also, the Sheriff’s Office has amended its complaint process.
There will be two public comment periods held virtually for comments on the drafted plan. The first is happening Thursday, Feb 18 at 6 p.m. The second virtual session will be on Friday, Feb. 19 at 12:30 p.m.
Comments from the public will assist the committee in finalizing the plan.
If you would like to comment, email policereform@madisoncounty.ny.gov. A Zoom link will be sent to you. For more information, click here.
If you would only like to watch, these sessions will be streamed live on the Madison County YouTube page.
Governor Andrew Cuomo issued the executive order in 2020, requiring each local government across New York State to adopt a policing reform plan by April 1, 2021.