What Police Departments Can Learn from Denver

Law enforcement leaders can learn a lot from Denver. In 2020, the city implemented a new, more effective and compassionate approach to crisis response. Since then, they’ve seen remarkable changes.

Now, when people call 911 in Denver, some are even asking for “STAR” by name. The Denver STAR Program is one of many innovative ways that police are working with the community and reflects a new approach to mental health, substance use, and other calls that require more than a police officer presence. STAR connects people to care when they need it most and reduces unnecessary arrests.

In this new video interview, the CSG Justice Center’s Ernest Stevens, from the award-winning HBO documentary “Ernie & Joe: Crisis Cops,” sat down with former Denver Police Chief Paul Pazen to discuss the STAR Program.

“Police response by itself is not going to solve [mental health and substance use] issues. You need to look deeper,” said Chief Pazen.

Watch or listen to the full conversation below: