The Growing Crisis in Mental Health Response: Are We Leaving Those in Need Behind?
A troubling trend is emerging across California, and particularly in Sonoma County: law enforcement agencies are increasingly hesitant to enforce involuntary psychiatric holds – known as 5150 holds – even when mental health professionals deem them necessary. This shift, fueled by legal concerns and a desire to avoid potential liability, is leaving vulnerable individuals without the immediate care they desperately need, and raising serious questions about the future of mental health crisis response.
The Dilemma of the 5150 Hold
California’s 5150 law allows qualified officers to detain individuals experiencing a mental health crisis if they pose a danger to themselves or others. Although, a recent court case, Scott v. Smith, has prompted some agencies to re-evaluate their approach. The ruling, while not dramatically altering existing law, has raised concerns about potential legal repercussions for officers using force during these interventions.
The result, as documented in Sonoma County, is a growing number of “unenforced holds.” Between December 1, 2024, and January 23, 2026, officers refused to carry out a hold recommended by mental health crisis responders in 62 cases within Santa Rosa and the county’s unincorporated areas. This represents a significant concern for local health officials, who fear the consequences of leaving individuals in crisis without immediate support.
A Shift in Approach and Rising Concerns
Sheriff’s offices in several counties, including Del Norte and Sacramento, have announced changes to their response protocols, sometimes stating they will only respond to mental health calls when a crime is in progress or there’s an immediate threat to public safety. This “patchwork” approach, as described in reports, is creating confusion and inconsistency in crisis response.
The case of Barbara and Denny Bozman-Moss exemplifies the challenges families face. After repeated 911 calls for their son, who suffers from schizoaffective disorder, police repeatedly walked away when he refused voluntary treatment. It wasn’t until he became physically aggressive that officers intervened, leading to a monthslong legal process before he received necessary medication. This delay, they believe, exacerbated his condition.
The Role of Mobile Crisis Teams
Fortunately, Sonoma County has invested in alternative response models, including Mobile Support Teams and inRESPONSE, which pair mental health professionals with law enforcement. These teams aim to de-escalate situations and connect individuals with appropriate care. However, even these teams are feeling the strain of the shifting landscape.
While Mobile Support Teams successfully resolved 365 cases out of 1,937 dispatches between December 1, 2024, and mid-January 2026, the increasing number of unenforced holds underscores the limitations of these programs when law enforcement declines to participate. The teams are now attempting to navigate a system where their recommendations are not always followed.
Liability and the Legal Landscape
The core of the issue lies in the perceived legal risk for law enforcement. The Scott v. Smith case highlighted the potential for liability when officers use force during mental health interventions. While legal experts argue the ruling doesn’t fundamentally change existing protections, some agencies are interpreting it as a reason to exercise greater caution.
The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office has even formalized this caution in its policy, outlining “considerations to disengage” if an individual is uncooperative and doesn’t pose an immediate threat. This policy, while intended to protect officers, raises concerns about leaving vulnerable individuals without the help they need.
Looking Ahead: Potential Solutions and Future Trends
Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach. Increased training for law enforcement on de-escalation techniques and mental health awareness is crucial. Clarifying the legal parameters surrounding 5150 holds and providing greater legal protection for officers acting in quality faith could alleviate some of the concerns driving the shift in approach.
Expanding access to mental health services, including crisis stabilization units and community-based treatment programs, is also essential. Investing in mobile crisis teams and ensuring they have the resources to respond effectively can reduce reliance on law enforcement intervention.
The future of mental health crisis response likely involves a greater emphasis on civilian-led interventions and a more collaborative approach between law enforcement, mental health professionals, and community organizations. However, without addressing the underlying legal concerns and investing in adequate resources, the current trend of unenforced holds could continue, leaving those in crisis increasingly vulnerable.
Resources
- Suicide Prevention: Call 911 for emergencies, or 988 to connect with a crisis counselor.
- Sonoma County Mobile Support Team (MST): 800-746-8181
- inRESPONSE Mental Health Support Team: 707-575-HELP (4357)
- SAFE Team: Cotati/SSU: 707-792-4611, Rohnert Park: 707-584-2612, Petaluma: 707-781-1234
- NAMI Sonoma County: (866) 966-6264 or [email protected]
FAQ
What is a 5150 hold? A 5150 hold allows qualified officers to temporarily detain someone experiencing a mental health crisis if they are a danger to themselves or others.
Why are officers hesitant to enforce 5150 holds? Concerns about potential legal liability following the Scott v. Smith court case are driving this hesitancy.
What are mobile crisis teams? Teams of mental health professionals who respond to crisis calls alongside or instead of law enforcement.
What can I do if I or someone I know is experiencing a mental health crisis? Call 911 for emergencies, 988 for crisis counseling, or contact a local mobile crisis team.
Did you know? Sonoma County saw a significant increase in unenforced 5150 holds between December 2024 and January 2026, highlighting the growing challenges in mental health crisis response.
Pro Tip: If you are concerned about a loved one, don’t hesitate to call for help. Even if an officer doesn’t immediately enforce a hold, the intervention can connect the individual with valuable resources.
What are your thoughts on the changing landscape of mental health crisis response? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below.
