Chandler Police Train to Help, Not Harm | Tucson News

Chandler police are revolutionizing crisis response with specialized training that turns force into compassion—officers now simulate real-life scenarios like autism-related meltdowns, learning to listen, adapt, and de-escalate without handcuffs. Since launching in 2024, the Behavioral Health Unit has handled over 1,300 calls, from mental health emergencies to developmental disabilities, with near-zero use of force—even in high-risk cases. Led by Sergeant Matt Cacciola, the program’s core mission? Keep people safe and out of the criminal justice system. Four times a year, five officers and one expert train together, proving that patience and understanding can turn crisis into connection. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d57802d591c5ff2a