BEVERLY – Chief John G. LeLacheur reports that the Beverly Police Department and law enforcement partners successfully de-escalated a situation involving an individual experiencing a mental health crisis.
Late last month, the Beverly Police Department was called to an apartment complex on Rantoul Street (Route 1A) for a report of a individual experiencing a mental health crisis who may be armed.
Beverly Police responded, set up a perimeter to maintain public safety, and requested assistance from the Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council SWAT Team, which includes specially trained negotiators. Elements of the Massachusetts State Police responded as well.
After about three hours of negotiations, the individual who was barricaded inside an apartment surrendered peacefully. There were no reported injuries.
The individual who was in crisis was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. He is not facing criminal charges.
“I want to thank our partners at NEMLEC and the Massachusetts State Police for assisting us with this potentially dangerous call,” said Chief LeLacheur. “SWAT Team members used their training and expertise to bring this call to a peaceful conclusion. The individual in question will now be connected with appropriate services that can help him in the future.” ♦
