The local law enforcement initiative that pairs a police officer with a social worker to respond to mental health-related calls has been recognized with a national award and also received a state grant, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
The Crisis Outreach and Support Team (COaST) was recognized by the National Association of Counties with its Achievement Award. The award recognizes innovative and effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents, the sheriff’s office said.
COaST is a multi-agency program that started in 2022 with the sheriff’s office and participating police departments from Gurnee, Lake Forest, Libertyville, Lincolnshire, Mundelein and Vernon Hills. An officer from each agency is paired with a mental health professional, like a social worker or clinician, to respond to mental health-related calls.
The teams have responded to dozens of calls since the program began. Trained professionals help officers deal with situations, and can stay as long as necessary, allowing the officer to return to emergency calls, if necessary.
“The Achievement Awards recognize excellence in county government and effective public service,” NACo President Mary Jo McGuire said. “This year’s winners have delivered results for our residents and demonstrated innovative efforts to strengthen our communities.”
The COaST program also learned this month that it has received a $250,000 state grant to be used for operational expenses. State Sen. Adriane Johnson, D-Buffalo Grove, helped secure the grant.
“I support the award-winning Lake County COaST program because it aligns with one of my top priorities: ensuring the safety of residents who are struggling with mental health issues that require intervention and treatment instead of punishment,” Johnson said.
Sheriff John Idleburg said he was thrilled to have COaST recognized, and thankful for the additional funding.
“Our COaST program was one of the first in the nation, and we are so incredibly proud of its success,” he said. “We have been able to provide services to thousands of Lake County residents since the program’s inception.”
Compliance checks
The Lake County task force that combats underage drinking and drug use says it recently completed compliance checks at 239 businesses across the region that sell liquor.
The Lake County Underaged Drinking and Drug Prevention Task Force says 22 businesses were cited for selling liquor to minors, but more than 90% of the establishments did not.
Teens working with police entered the business and tried to buy alcohol with identification that showed the would-be buyers were under the age of 21.
“Consistency from community to community and monitoring underage drinking issues will help us be successful in addressing this problem and saving lives,” said task force Chairman Steve Husak, who is the Lake Zurich police chief. “Our desire is to see 100% compliance, but it is refreshing to see that over 90% of the businesses that were checked realize the seriousness of this issue and did not sell alcohol to the underage participants.”
The task force said spring, with proms and graduations, is a time when underage alcohol use can increase.
Holiday patrols
The Fourth of July is already upon us, and the summer holiday means increased police activity to catch reckless or impaired drivers. A number of local agencies say they will be on the lookout over the holiday period.
The sheriff’s office offered these safe driving tips:
*Designate a sober driver before heading out.
*If you find yourself impaired, use safe alternatives such as taxis, public transit and ride-sharing apps, or contact a sober friend or family member for a ride.
*Report suspected drunk drivers promptly to law enforcement by pulling over and dialing 911.
* Ensure that all passengers in your vehicle buckle up. It’s not only the law, but also a crucial defense against impaired drivers.
