x
Breaking News
More () »

Pineville PD joins county-wide child trauma unit

It's a program that started by CMPD in the 90's to seek solutions to community trauma by being proactive.

MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is seeking solutions in our community, expanding a county-wide program that started in 1996.  The Child Development Community Policing Program is focused on treatment for children and families after a traumatic incident.  It's all about linking families to continued resources.

The program is a collaboration between trained officers and clinicians to respond to violence and other traumas immediately. This response begins with an officer arriving on the scene, recognizing the potential psychological trauma for a child or family and calling a clinician. 

For the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts, download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app.

Stacey Butler, the program's director, explains that it helps officers' mental health, giving them an outlet when they come across a scene where they need an expert.

"They don't walk away wondering what happened or worrying about that child. Now we know that there getting good care after something horrible happened," said Butler.

There are 13 clinicians now embedded within CMPD's 13 patrol divisions. They have added other departments, including Huntersville and Pineville.  

The officer-clinician relationship offers specialized care to help a victim get to a safe place and prevent serious issues that could affect the child later in life.

"We recognize, hey there's something here.  We can't fix it but we know who can. We need to get the scene safe and get them in touch with someone who can help them," said Sergeant Josh Harb with the Pineville Police.

You can stream WCNC Charlotte on Roku and Amazon Fire TV, just download the free app.

Matthews and Mint Hill police departments are also preparing to join the program.

Colin Mayfield: Contact Colin Mayfield at cmayfield@wcnc.com or follow him on FacebookTwitter and Instagram.  

SEEKING SOLUTIONS 

WCNC Charlotte is committed to reporting on the issues facing the communities we serve. We tell the stories of people working to solve persistent social problems. We examine how problems can be solved or addressed to improve the quality of life and make a positive difference. WCNC Charlotte is seeking solutions for you. Send your tips or questions to newstips@wcnc.com. 

Before You Leave, Check This Out