ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the first point of intercept within the original Sequential Intercept Model, which includes diversion opportunities more typically available during encounters with law enforcement and emergency services personnel. Considering that the intended audience for the text is future criminal justice professionals such as police, emphasis is placed on police-citizen encounters and pre-booking diversion strategies. The chapter presents and discusses additional challenges facing law enforcement and the consumers they serve. It considers that some of the pre-arrest/pre-booking diversion strategies are designed to prevent a crisis that would require police-intervention from occurring in the first place. The chapter presents the challenges that are becoming salient topics for research and policy exploration. It includes the development of crisis intervention-based training and diversion programs geared toward decriminalization of youth. The chapter provides an introductory discussion of issues pertaining to the mental health and wellness of the police. It concludes with a brief introduction to police-specific mental health concerns.
