By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The Department of Justice (DOJ) released a report finding that Oklahoma City and its police department discriminate against individuals with behavioral health disabilities, citing unnecessary institutionalization and inappropriate police responses to mental health crises. The DOJ investigation, launched in 2022 following a complaint, revealed a pattern of escalating situations through armed intervention rather than utilizing behavioral health professionals. This often leads to avoidable use of force and unmet mental health needs. The DOJ seeks a resolution with city and state officials but may file suit to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act if necessary.
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The Department of Justice’s recent finding that Oklahoma City police discriminate against individuals with behavioral disabilities is deeply troubling, and frankly, not entirely surprising. This highlights a systemic issue that extends far beyond Oklahoma City, reflecting a broader problem in how law enforcement interacts with vulnerable populations. The consequences can be devastating, leading to unnecessary escalation of crises and even avoidable use of force.
The assertion that this is a widespread problem isn’t hyperbole. Consider the numerous instances where individuals with behavioral disabilities, particularly those with autism or other conditions that can manifest in unpredictable behaviors, are wrongly viewed as threats. Schools often fail to adequately implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), leading to meltdowns and subsequent involvement of law enforcement. This is where the potential for harm is immense; law enforcement officers, without the proper training or understanding, may misinterpret behaviors and escalate the situation unnecessarily, resulting in an arrest or even physical altercation.
This isn’t just about a lack of training; it’s about a fundamental misunderstanding of behavioral disabilities. Many officers lack the nuanced understanding of these conditions needed to effectively de-escalate situations involving individuals with these challenges. It’s not about expecting officers to be instant diagnosticians, but it is crucial for them to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognize behaviors linked to these disabilities and to respond appropriately. The current system, where the police are often the first and only responders to such situations, is inherently flawed.
The comparison to a “bully picking on the weak” isn’t an exaggeration either. There is a concerning pattern where the disproportionate use of force is directed towards individuals who are already vulnerable due to their disability. The argument that “all cops are bullies” is an oversimplification, but it taps into the underlying issue of a system that often prioritizes force over de-escalation, which is further compounded when those experiencing a crisis are already deemed “different.”
The suggestion that this isn’t technically “discrimination” because officers simply react to perceived threats, misses a key point. Discrimination isn’t always a conscious, malicious act; it can stem from unconscious biases and a lack of understanding. While officers are trained to deal with misbehavior, their training often lacks the necessary sensitivity and knowledge required to appropriately respond to individuals with behavioral disabilities. In essence, their “hammer” approach may be well-intentioned, but lacks the finesse required for these delicate situations.
To effectively address this problem, a multi-pronged approach is crucial. Firstly, increasing the training that police officers receive on how to interact with individuals who have behavioral disabilities is essential. This should involve training that goes beyond surface-level awareness and delves into the complexities of these conditions and techniques to de-escalate tense situations effectively and safely. Secondly, expanding access to mental health services and ensuring that mental health professionals are readily available to respond to crises alongside law enforcement officers is critical. This would create a system where police are a backup measure for social workers, instead of being the primary responders.
The existence of a “robust toolkit” – which incorporates social workers and mental health professionals – is vital. Police should have access to a wider range of resources beyond just force, enabling them to appropriately address different situations. The expectation that law enforcement alone can handle every type of emergency isn’t realistic, and relying solely on police for situations involving individuals with behavioral disabilities is leading to negative outcomes.
Ultimately, the issue is multifaceted. The DOJ’s findings are not simply about overt discrimination but also about unconscious biases, a lack of training and a system that relies too heavily on law enforcement as the primary responders to crises involving individuals with behavioral disabilities. The solution requires a systematic shift, incorporating comprehensive training for law enforcement officers, expanded mental health resources, and a more holistic approach to addressing emergencies that involves collaboration between law enforcement and mental health professionals. It’s a complex problem, but the need for a more nuanced and compassionate approach is undeniable.