Rochester Officer Recognized for Crisis Intervention Skills
Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) - A Rochester police officer has been recognized for his work in dealing with crisis situations involving mental illness.
Patrol Officer TJ Jacobsen last week was given the 2018 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Southeast Minnesota’s CIT Officer of the Year Award. The CIT (Crisis Intervention Team) award recognizes an individual in the area of law enforcement that has done the following:
· Gone above and beyond to support a commitment to the decriminalization of mental illness through crisis intervention and jail diversion.
· Provides compassion and support in all aspects of their duties when confronted with mental health issues, and fights the stigma associated with mental illness.
· Advocates for persons with mental illness.
Jacobsen has been with the Rochester Police Department since 2011, and a certified CIT Officer since 2014. He also serves on the Rochester Police / Olmsted County Crisis Negotiations Unit.
In nominating Jacobsen for this award it was noted that he has demonstrated a strong passion for helping those in crisis, by displaying empathy, kindness, and patience. Jacobsen has safely de-escalated high-risk situations, including suicidal individuals with weapons, all the while guiding them towards help and support. As an Army veteran, Jacobsen connects well with veterans going through a crisis and connecting them with appropriate resources.