Can an officer use force on a suicide call?

In situations involving a suicide call, officers can invoke the concept of the community caretaker role, which allows them to intervene for the welfare and safety of an individual, even when there is no immediate criminal activity. This principle recognizes that police officers have a responsibility to protect individuals who may be a danger to themselves, as well as to prevent any potential harm that could arise from an unaddressed mental health crisis.

The community caretaker function focuses on the safety and welfare of the individual, allowing officers to provide necessary help or assistance rather than strictly enforcing the law. In this context, using force may be necessary to ensure the individual receives appropriate care, especially if they are a danger to themselves or others. The use of force in this scenario would generally prioritize non-lethal options, aiming to de-escalate rather than exacerbate the situation. Understanding this framework is essential for law enforcement officers when responding to mental health crises, as it underscores their dual role as enforcers of the law and protectors of community wellbeing.