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The Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office (CPSO) has entered into a Joinder Party Agreement with the Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse of Northwest Louisiana (CADA). This collaboration aims to enhance crisis intervention and mobile response services for individuals facing mental health or substance-related crises, as stated by Sheriff Henry Whitehorn Sr.

The agreement formalizes CPSO's participation in CADA's Crisis Intervention and Mobile Crisis Response (MCR) programs, establishing a coordinated approach to identify, de-escalate, and connect individuals in crisis with appropriate care and resources.

Under this agreement, CPSO deputies who encounter individuals experiencing psychological, emotional, or substance-related distress during their routine operations can refer eligible individuals—when no criminal offense has occurred—to CADA's Mobile Crisis Response team. These services are designed to provide timely, on-site assessments, crisis stabilization, and referrals for ongoing care.

"Law enforcement officers are often the first to encounter individuals in crisis," said Sheriff Henry Whitehorn Sr. "This partnership allows us to connect people with trained crisis professionals who can provide specialized care, while ensuring public safety and compassionate outcomes for those in need."

CADA is the provider of Adult Mobile Crisis Response and Community Brief Crisis Support for the Louisiana Region 7. Under this agreement, CADA's mobile teams will respond to crisis calls within established timeframes, assess individuals for appropriate services, and, when necessary, assume care and coordinate follow-up support or referrals within 24 hours.

While CPSO deputies will maintain authority and control of the scene for safety purposes, CADA staff will collaborate with law enforcement to ensure a smooth transition of care. Individuals deemed inappropriate for mobile crisis services will be connected to alternative resources better suited to their needs.

This partnership reflects CPSO's ongoing commitment to community-based solutions, public safety, and increasing access to mental health and substance use crisis services throughout Caddo Parish.

For questions regarding this press release, please contact Breck Scott