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Mount Olive Police Department adds mental health professionals to co-response program

MOUNT OLIVE TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — The Mount Olive Police Department has expanded its Mount Olive Connect And Protect (MO CAP) initiative by welcoming two mental health professionals, Sophie and Jessica, to the program. Their addition is made possible through a partnership with the Mental Health Association of Essex & Morris (MHA).

Sophie and Jessica bring extensive experience in supporting individuals dealing with mental health and substance use challenges. As part of the MO CAP program, they are embedded with police officers on mental health-related calls, where they assist in de-escalating crises and connecting individuals with appropriate resources based on their immediate needs.

“This collaboration strengthens our commitment to providing compassionate, community-centered care,” the department said in a statement. “Together with MHA, we are building a safer, more supportive Mount Olive.”

The MO CAP program is part of a growing co-responder model in law enforcement that pairs mental health professionals with officers to provide tailored support and reduce reliance on traditional policing alone in behavioral health incidents.

For emergencies, residents should continue to dial 911. For non-emergency situations, the Mount Olive Communications Center can be reached at 973-691-0850 to connect with a MO CAP clinician.

Jay Edwards

Born and raised in Northwest NJ, Jay has a degree in Communications and has had a life-long interest in local radio and various styles of music. Jay has held numerous jobs over the years such as stunt car driver, bartender, voice-over artist, traffic reporter (award winning), NY Yankee maintenance crewmember and peanut farm worker. His hobbies include mountain climbing, snowmobiling, cooking, performing stand-up comedy and he is an avid squirrel watcher. Jay has been a guest on America’s Morning Headquarters,program on The Weather Channel, and was interviewed by Sam Champion.

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