What must officers do when encountering a mentally ill individual in South Dakota?

When officers encounter a mentally ill individual in South Dakota, they must assess the situation and seek assistance from mental health professionals if necessary. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique needs and vulnerabilities of individuals with mental illnesses.

Assessing the situation allows officers to evaluate the immediate circumstances, which can include determining whether the individual poses a danger to themselves or others, or if they just need assistance. Engaging mental health professionals can provide the necessary support and resources for the individual, ensuring they receive appropriate care rather than being subjected to the criminal justice system unnecessarily.

This practice aligns with modern policing methods that recognize the importance of mental health issues in law enforcement and strives to connect individuals to the appropriate services instead of defaulting to punitive actions. Assisting someone in distress is not only a compassionate approach, but it can also help de-escalate situations, ultimately promoting public safety and better outcomes for all involved.