Congressional Inquiry and Partnerships for Policy Change
Change is Needed ;
Dear Supporters,
Following our initial contact with the Warren County Sheriff's Office policies on responding to veterans in crisis, I am pleased to share that a congressional inquiry is underway. We have contacted our Congressman's office, which will contact the Warren County Sheriff's Office. Additionally, we are seeking assistance from the ACLU and the Governor's office to facilitate these necessary policy changes.
The Warren County Sheriff's Office can expect inquiries from the Galesburg VA, VA corporate, OSF, and Monmouth, all of which are appalled by the treatment I received. This collective outrage underscores the urgency of our demand for change.
These policies must change to prevent any further mistreatment of veterans. We are prepared to withdraw our lawsuit if we see genuine progress in policy changes. However, should our requests be addressed, we will take our case to social media, leveraging our extensive network of veteran influencers to ensure every veteran in Warren County is treated this way again.
Thank you for your continued support as we strive for justice and better treatment for all veterans.
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Date:20 August 2024 The fallout from the July 18th incident has put the local sheriff’s department under intense scrutiny. We have been vocal about the need for reform, particularly in how law enforcement responds to mental health crises. The sheriff’s office, which led the SWAT-style raid on me, has faced criticism for its heavy-handed tactics and lack of communication. The Freeborn Initiative has ramped up its advocacy efforts, working with the Congressional Inquiry and other local officials to push for change. The organization has proposed the ECHO Accords, a set of protocols requiring law enforcement to undergo specialized training in mental health crisis intervention. Additionally, The sheriff’s office, meanwhile, has been largely unresponsive, leading to frustration and calls for greater accountability. However, The Freeborn Initiative remains committed to its mission, using the July 18th incident as a catalyst for broader change.
Freeborn Family, As we continue our advocacy for better treatment of veterans in crisis by the Warren County Sheriff's Office, we want to outline the specific improvements we are advocating for. These changes are essential to ensure that no veteran is subjected to the unacceptable treatment that I experienced. Suggested Improvements: 1. Veteran Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) for All Officers: - All officers should receive specialized training in dealing with veterans in mental health crises. This training should include de-escalation techniques and an understanding of the unique challenges that veterans may face. 2. Clear Communication Protocols: - Establish protocols for clear and respectful communication with individuals in crisis. This includes informing them of any charges or warrants and the reason for their detention calmly and respectfully. 3. Use of Body and Dash Cam Footage: - Ensure that all body cam and dash cam footage is reviewed in mental health crisis incidents. This footage should be available for review by oversight bodies and the individuals involved in the incident. 4. Coordination with Mental Health Professionals: - Develop a partnership with local mental health professionals who can be called to the scene to assist officers. This ensures that individuals in crisis receive the appropriate care and support. 5. Regular Policy Reviews and Updates: - Implement a system for regularly reviewing and updating policies related to mental health crises. This should include input from mental health professionals, veterans' organizations, and the community. 6. Accountability and Transparency: - Establish clear accountability measures for officers who fail to adhere to these policies. Ensure that there is transparency in how incidents are handled and reviewed. 7. Support for Affected Individuals: - Provide support services for individuals who have experienced a mental health crisis. This includes follow-up care, connections to mental health resources, and veteran support services. 8. Community Engagement: - Engage with the community, particularly veterans' groups, to ensure their concerns and experiences are heard and addressed in policy development. These changes are crucial for ensuring that veterans in crisis receive the care and respect they deserve. It is not just about avoiding lawsuits or media scrutiny but about doing what is right for those who have served our country. We will continue pushing for these changes and update you on our progress. Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to improving the lives of our veterans. Sincerely, Joshua Hinkle President, The Freeborn Initiative Thank you for supporting our advocacy for these necessary improvements. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that all veterans are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
