Lee County Sheriff Partners With Family Initiative for Enhanced Support in Developmental Disability Crises

The Lee County Sheriff's Office has started working with Family Initiative Incorporated. This partnership changes how deputies handle calls that involve people with developmental disabilities. Sheriff Carmine Marceno made the announcement, according to Fox 4.

Licensed clinical professionals can now consult with deputies. Sometimes they respond to calls in person. The Community Response Unit coordinates these requests and ensures the right support arrives.

Families can sign up loved ones at any substation through a Special Persons Registry. Dispatchers add this information to their system. Deputies get important details about the person before they arrive.

Golden Paws Crisis Care canine teams are part of this effort. These dogs received training to calm tense situations and provide comfort during sensory overload or crisis moments. Officials believe this will build trust with residents and improve safety across the county.