During the training sessions, participants learned about mental health law and emergency petition procedures, verbal de-escalation, traumatic brain injury, and developmental disabilities. They heard personal stories from individuals and family members living with mental health and substance abuse challenges. Officers also participated in role-play scenarios to demonstrate de-escalation skills and determine the best course of action for the scenario provided.
The CIT program is a community partnership of law enforcement, mental health and addiction professionals, individuals who live with mental illness and/or addiction disorders, their families, and other partners whose mission is to improve community responses to mental health crises.
In Southern Maryland, the CIT is a collaborative effort between the Sheriff’s Offices of St. Mary’s County, Calvert County, and Charles County, the Maryland State Police, and other allied agencies.
The St. Mary’s CIT is made up of Captain Sarah Smith, Commander, Alexis Higdon, NCC, LCPC, Coordinator, and Sergeant Anthony Whipkey, Law Enforcement Coordinator.
The seven CIT graduates from SMCSO included:
Cpl. Lacey Smith- Special Operations Division
CFC Michael Schmidt- Corrections
Dep. Toni Hunsinger- Patrol
CFC Joshua Crow- Corrections
Dep. Raymond Allebach- Patrol
Dep. Devin Absher- Patrol
Dep. Anthony Cucinotta- Patrol (not pictured)
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| Cpl. Lacey Smith |
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| CFC Michael Schmidt |
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| Dep. Toni Hunsinger |
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| CFC Joshua Crow |
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| Dep. Raymond Allebach |
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| Dep. Devin Absher |
