The Pella Police Department recently announced they have welcomed Mental Health Professional Mike Crowe to the department’s Crisis Intervention Team. He’s partnering with Pella Police Department Senior Officer Chad Hardman in a co-responder unit that is the first-of-its-kind in Pella and Marion County.

Crowe is a veteran first responder and mental health advocate who brings experience in EMS and fire service, along with a commitment to mental health education. He works with Inside Out Wellness & Advocacy out of Perry, Iowa.

Both Crowe and Officer Hardman will respond to mental health-related calls and provide support to individuals in crisis. Together, they aim to enhance the department’s ability to handle these calls with compassion, professionalism, and a focus on long-term solutions, as well as providing valuable education and resources to the community.

Hardman says mental health-related calls are becoming more frequent, and there is a need for trained professionals. Hear more from both about the effort on upcoming interview programs on KNIA/KRLS.