Omaha's Frank Unit Redefines Crisis Response | Omaha News

Omaha’s Frank Unit is revolutionizing crisis response by prioritizing de-escalation, empathy, and connection over confrontation—helping people in mental health crises access care, safety plans, or mental health providers instead of arrest. Their work shifts with the seasons: more youth-related calls in summer, and spikes in suicidal ideation during the holidays. Officers-in-training receive mental health first aid and scenario practice, with ongoing specialized training for complex situations like voluntary hospitalization. After a tragic shooting involving a suicidal man, the mayor proposed expanding the unit with new hires to extend coverage beyond current hours—potentially adding overnight shifts. Omaha’s co-responder model is already considered a national leader, constantly evolving to stay ahead in mental health support within policing. 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/ffacd0ad4b3d33d6