Tragic Loss of Lives in Halifax: A Call for Change in Crisis Response

Introduction

In the span of just six days, Halifax has mourned the loss of two men who died after being Tasered by police during mental health crises. These tragic incidents have sparked urgent discussions about the appropriateness of police response to mental health emergencies. Criminologists and experts are emphasizing that police officers are often not the most suitable first responders in such situations, and the use of conducted energy weapons can have lethal consequences.

The Incidents

On February 22, a 25-year-old man in Halifax lost his life while in police custody. Police reported that the man was experiencing a mental health crisis and became aggressive, leading officers to use a Taser. Six days later, another man, aged 37, also died after being Tasered during a mental health episode. Both incidents are now under investigation by Nova Scotia’s police watchdog, raising serious questions about the role of law enforcement in handling mental health emergencies.

Expert Insights on Police Response

Criminology and sociology professor Temitope Oriola from the University of Alberta, who specializes in police use of conducted energy weapons, has called for Halifax officials to reconsider police involvement in mental health crises. Professor Oriola highlights that police officers lack the specialized training needed to effectively de-escalate such situations. Additionally, the unpredictability of how individuals might react to the electrical discharge from Tasers or stun guns adds another layer of risk, making it impossible for officers to determine if such force might be fatal.

Patterns of Force in Mental Health Crises

Marcus Sibley, an assistant professor of criminology at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, supports this perspective. He points to research indicating that police are more likely to use force against individuals in mental health crises compared to those who are not in distress. This disparity underscores the need for alternative approaches to managing mental health emergencies, where the priority is de-escalation and providing appropriate care rather than relying on law enforcement interventions.

The Need for Systemic Change

The deaths in Halifax serve as a stark reminder of the systemic issues at play. Police are too often the first line of response to mental health crises, despite the lack of specialized training. The use of conducted energy weapons, while intended as a less-lethal option, carries inherent risks that can sometimes prove deadly. These incidents highlight the urgent need for policy changes that prioritize mental health professionals in crisis response.

A Path Forward

Moving forward, there is a clear need for a paradigm shift in how society approaches mental health emergencies. By involving trained mental health professionals in crisis responses and reducing the reliance on law enforcement, we can work towards safer and more compassionate outcomes. The loss of these two men in Halifax should serve as a catalyst for meaningful change, ensuring that those in distress receive the help they need without devastating consequences.