Thursday, July 21, 2022
Shortly after 6:00 a.m Thursday morning (July 21), St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call of an individual at the Oak Harbor overpass in Slidell attempting to jump off the bridge and onto I-10 in an attempt to harm himself. The swift action by deputies prevented him from harming himself.
52 year old male was from the Mississippi area, and experiencing a mental health crisis. Deputies were able to use their training and skills to talk him down in less than 15 minutes. The individual was taken into protective custody, and brought to a local area hospital for mental health evaluation. There were no injuries.
The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office has a Crisis Intervention Team that is highly trained in dealing with individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Additionally, we offer continuous training to our deputies working in all divisions in crisis intervention, and how to use de-escalation techniques. We work hand-in-hand with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illnesses) to address some of the behavioral health issues within our community. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis please contact NAMI at 985-626-6538, or if an emergency call 911.
“I commend these deputies that responded quickly and professionally,” Sheriff Smith said. “Their training and quick thinking prevented this individual from his own personal tragedy. Unfortunately, mental health is a real issue in our community, but I want everyone to know there are resources, including our Crisis Intervention Team, available to them. If you are in crisis or know someone who is please call 911 or NAMI at 985-626-6538.”