Here is a quick look at how the system works and who it helps.
- The program currently has the capacity for six responders and one coordinator.
- The unit has responded to about 400 calls for service since launching.
- Dispatchers on average receive about 157 calls to 911 per week in Dayton that are appropriate for a new team to handle.
- Some 911 calls will be transferred to a special call-taker who will determine if a mediation response is appropriate.
- Mediation responders often can get to calls for service about nonviolent conflict more quickly than police can because officers tend to have a backlog of calls.
- If mediation field team members are dispatched, their first priority after arriving on scene will be to determine the safety of the situation and if police should be summoned.
- Police, fire and mediation will be on the same radio network and will be able to call each other to a scene quickly when needed
- Mediation staff should have more time than police usually do to listen to both sides and connect people to services that can help.
- The Mediation Response Unit currently works between 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Credit: Contributed
Credit: Contributed
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