911 Emergency Communications

Recommendation #1: Develop an uninterrupted, 24/7 mobile mental health response system that can be dispatched by 911. 

Implementation Date: 1/1/2024
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • COMCARE has been able to fill all full-time positions dedicated to mobile crisis response, which includes three clinicians and two integrated care specialists. This should help improve mobile crisis response in Sedgwick County.
    • Present staffing and workforce deficiency are barriers to implementing enhanced ICT capacity. System partners may recommend alternative models to fulfill the 24/7 response capability. The 2023 Recommended Budget contains a Mental Health Contingency Reserve of $1,000,000 for mental health initiatives. Should the environment become more conducive to enhancements, contingency could be available to address recommendations from COMCARE and Emergency Communications staff.
    • In preparation for 988 implementation, COMCARE created five Integrated Care Specialist positions, whose focus will be on answering calls from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Additionally, one full-time Mobile Crisis Clinician position was created, which will provide an opportunity for mobile response when appropriate. COMCARE will continue to work on enhancing our technology to aid in call distribution and data collection, which will support us in providing the highest quality of care possible.
      988 went live on July 16, 2022, allowing increased 24/7 access to mental health intervention for those impacted by a mental health or substance use disorder crisis. Legislation was signed, providing funding to build the infrastructure necessary to manage 988 demands. Sedgwick County COMCARE will be awarded $1,080,000 in state funding during the current budget cycle. This funding will support the current 988 positions and any additional program components that are needed to widen access to crisis intervention services.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • The City of Wichita has dedicated funding for mental health staff to support mental health-related calls for service. There will be 4 mobile response teams comprised of a clinician and an integrated care specialist who will be available to accompany WPD on calls or to respond on their own to 911 calls that do not warrant a law enforcement response. We hope to have 24/7 coverage with these 4 teams. The goal is to get the right response to persons who access 911 be it a co-responder response or just the mobile response team. We know that not every call to 911 requires a law enforcement response and we hope that by partnering we are able to help those in a mental health crisis or assist someone calling about someone in need of a mental health intervention. Our ultimate goal is to identify what social supports or mental health care is needed to resolve the crisis.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • The city and county legal departments are collaborating on a memorandum of understanding (MOU).
    • The Kansas Legislature allocated additional 988 funding which will be used by Sedgwick County COMCARE to expand mobile response capacity through added staffing and fleet.
  • 4/26/2023 Update
    • The City of Wichita sent a proposed MOU document to the County Counselor regarding the COMCARE embedded Mental Health workers with WPD. COMCARE and County Counselor are presently reviewing the MOU content.
  • 6/20/2023 Update
    • The City of Wichita City Council approved the agreement with COMCARE on Tuesday, 6/6/23. Subsequently, the Sedgwick County Board of County Commissioners approved the agreement on Wednesday, 6/7/23. The next step is to post the job positions and recruit behavioral health professionals.
  • 10/5/2023 Update
    • Regarding the agreement between WPD and COMCARE for mobile response, implementation is in full swing. ICT1 is expanding with four additional teams, ICT2, ICT3, ICT4 and ICT5. Each team will consist of one case manager and one therapist. All teams will work out of the Central Bureau office. All case managers have been hired and are in training. Two offers have been made to therapists. Interviews will continue until all positions are filled.
  • 4/9/2024 Update
    • January 2024 through March 2024, ICT1-4 were fully staffed. April 01, 2024, ICT3 and ICT5 are operating with Integrated Care Specialists only. Two clinician positions have been posted with the hope of being filled quickly following graduation in May 2024. ICT1 continues to operate Monday-Friday 8am to 6pm. ICT2-5 operates seven days a week from 8am to 2am. April 01, 2024, ICT2-5 went live with radio and CAD access, now being dispatched through Sedgwick County 911. In March 2024, all five teams had a total of 249 calls, 141 leading to a field response. The ICT teams engaged with 111 patients, 74 of which were able to be treated in place or 66.67%.
    • COMCARE’s Mobile Crisis Unit (MCU) has 24/7 mobile crisis capabilities and can help fill any mobile crisis needs should ICT 1-5 be off or busy with another call.

Recommendation #2: Embed qualified mental health providers within the 911 system.

Implementation Date: 10/2/23
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Present staffing and workforce deficiency are barriers to implementing enhanced mobile response team and ICT capacity. The 2023 Recommended Budget contains a Mental Health Contingency Reserve of $1,000,000 for mental health initiatives. Should the environment become more conducive to enhancements, contingency could be available to address recommendation from COMCARE and Emergency Communications staff.
  • 10/11/2022 Update
    • Emergency Communications (911) is collaborating with COMCARE to develop a pilot for an embedded mental health specialist dispatch that will be live Q4 of 2022. This is made possible through the utilization and reallocation of existing staff at COMCARE.
  • 11/30/2022 Update
    • COMCARE and Emergency Communications have partnered to start a pilot program for an embedded mental health worker in dispatch which will be staffed by the end of January 2023, if not sooner. Policies and procedures have been established, a job description created, and the hiring process has begun. Once a qualified candidate is selected, they will be trained, along with Emergency Communications staff and the pilot will be live. Staff from both agencies will be collecting data throughout the pilot so that they may demonstrate the effectiveness of the program for future growth.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • COMCARE received funding from KDADS in order to increase capacity to manage 988 calls, which includes enhancing partnerships with Emergency Communications in order to connect persons in mental health-related distress with a mental health professional when appropriate. COMCARE hired one full-time Integrated Care Specialist who will be co-located at the 911 call center on Monday-Thursday during the second shift. This person started Jan. 30 and has been completing COMCARE required training and onboarding for the last several months. Additionally, he has had several shadowing opportunities, which includes observing calls in the 911 call-center and going on WPD ride-alongs. The plan is to have the Integrated Care Specialist transition to a workspace at the Emergency Communications building; however, this has been delayed due to construction and CAD upgrades in the Emergency Communications Building. The team is in process of developing a plan so COMCARE staff can access CAD while using COMCARE technology, train on CAD, and then receive calls transferred from 911 while working from a remote location.
  • 10/19/2023 Update
    • On October 2nd, 2023, the Integrated Care Specialist (ICS) program went live at 9-1-1, embedding a qualified mental health worker in dispatch to respond to calls of mental health crisis that do not necessitate a law enforcement response. There is one ICS staff member in dispatch now, working Sunday through Thursday, 2:30pm to 10:30pm, and a second ICS staff member currently in training with an expected operational date of December 4. The second ICS team member will be operational Monday-Friday, 12pm to 8pm. In addition to responding to mental health crisis, the ICS is able to join 9-1-1 calls in progress, providing de-escalation to callers prior to officer arrival with the goal of creating a less volatile situation for the safety of all parties involved. Since the go-live on October 2nd, the ICS team member has been able to participate in or respond in lieu of law enforcement to 25 calls for assistance (as of 10/19).
  • 4/9/2024 Update
    • Two Integrated Care Specialists are now embedded in Sedgwick County 911, responding to calls of mental health crisis that do not necessitate a law enforcement response. One staff member operates Sunday through Thursday, 2:30pm to 10:30pm and the other operates Monday through Friday 12pm to 8pm. March 2024, the Integrated Care Specialists took 26 calls. In addition to responding to mental health crisis, the ICS is able to join 9-1-1 calls in progress, providing de-escalation to callers prior to officer arrival with the goal of creating a less volatile situation for the safety of all parties involved. The ICS have been able to identify callers of high volume, participating in multi-disciplinary team meetings to identify patient needs and develop a comprehensive plan to reduce the use of emergency services.
  • 10/28/2024 Update
    • The two Integrated Care Specialists that are embedded in 911 provided support to law enforcement, either as they were responding, or by eliminating the need for a law enforcement response, on 55 calls to 9-1-1 during the second quarter (April – June) and 84 calls to 911 during the third quarter (July – September). Emergency Communications and COMCARE continue to evaluate and refine the process, looking for further opportunities for the Integrated Care Specialists to provide support for 9-1-1 callers experiencing mental health crisis.

Recommendation #3: Add an additional position, “Continuing Education Coordinator,” to the 911 budget to enrich continuing education and training for 911 employees to better screen callers, develop tools to evaluate mental health needs and then transfer to COMCARE or another agency as appropriate. 

Implementation Date: Implemented 7/1/2024
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • A new Full Time Employee position is not being added to the 2023 budget, or the 911 staffing table at this time due to staffing and workforce deficiencies, however, at the recommendation of the Director, when staffing is adequately improved, this position may be created within the Department’s current allocation and addressed in a future budget.
  • 10/28/2024 Update
    • The Employee Development team was launched July 2024. The Employee Development team is currently staffed with four staff members, focused on identifying training needs and developing training around those needs. Between July 1st and September 30th, the team reviewed 1,224 phone calls and dispatched incidents, providing feedback to staff on opportunities for improvement, celebrating identified successes, and gathering baseline data for identification of systemic issues. The identified systemic issues were developed into an 8-hour training that was provided to all staff at the beginning of October. Additionally, 105 individual training sessions were conducted with employees, either to address specific needs or through weekly one-on-ones provided to staff during their first six weeks post-training.
  • 1/9/2024 Update
    • In 2024, refreshed the plan to enhance employee development by transitioning the Quality Improvement team to an Employee Development team, with a focus on identifying training opportunities and performance trends as well as implementing individual and group training to address these opportunities, and by developing a third level dispatcher position which will provide training and embedded support for staff, ensuring assistance is readily available for team members throughout their shift. Both of these require the addition of FTE positions and budgetary support, and are included in the 2025 budget development process.
  • 4/11/2025 Update
    • The goal has been achieved through the Employee Development Team.  It is an alternative approach that effectively meets the original intent.  In 2025, two additional positions were added to the staffing table for the Employee Development Team (EDT), bringing the team to a total of six members. This team will work across all three shifts, providing and coordinating continuing education 24 hours a day. The team’s supervisor will function as the Employee Development Supervisor, overseeing all aspects of staff development, including ongoing training initiatives. An example of this continuing education includes both squad-level training and department-wide training, which the team delivers at regular intervals.

Recommendation #4: By December 2022, establish a community advisory board that is reflective of the diverse communities 911 services.

Implementation Date: Implemented 8/15/24
Implementation Details:

  • 8/19/2024 Update
    • The Emergency Communications Community Advisory Board met informally with 9 of 13 appointee on 6/25/2024 pending appointments of additional seats. The Board’s first formal meeting was held on 8/15/2024 were by-laws were recommended and the board agreed to meet every other month on the third Thursday of each month.
  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • By December 2022 Emergency Communications will establish draft bylaws for a Community Advisory Board and a protocol for establishing board members. Because Commissioners will be appointing board members, the Director will wait until January of 2023 to solicit board appointments from seated Commissioners. The CAB will meet quarterly and membership will be established in time for the inaugural meeting in Q1 of 2023.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • The Community Advisory Board is still a work in process. Initial draft of by-laws have been reviewed and approved by the County Counselor’s Office. Work on representative selection and implementation is delayed by operational priorities (CAD implementation and staff relocation to accommodate call center demolition and remodel) and by administrative revisions of the County’s board appointments policy. The advisory board will still be advanced for implementation in calendar year 2023.
  • 10/19/2023 Update
    • Efforts to initiate a Community Advisory Board for Emergency Communications were delayed during 2023, due to both logistical considerations and operational focus. Those efforts are underway again, with the hope to have guidelines established by the end of 2023 for a 2024 start date.
  • 2/7/2024 Update
    • At the Feb. 7, 2024, Sedgwick County Board of County Commission Meeting, the Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) approved the establishment of an Emergency Communications Community Advisory Board. The Emergency Communications Community Advisory Board will serve as a conduit for community engagement and education, and give the community a voice in their 911 services relative to policy, procedures, training, recruitment and retention. The board will have 13 voting members comprised of representatives appointed from each Commission District, the City of Wichita, the City of Derby, a city of the second class and a city of the third class, a youth position, and 3 at large positions, which are all ratified by the BoCC.
    • 2/7 News Release
  • 4/10/2024 Update
    • Two Commissioner appointee have been confirmed by the Board of County Commissioners. the other three Commission appointees are pending, the City of Derby has submitted the City Council’s nominee, the three at large positions received several applications and are pending. SCAC nominees for 2nd and 3rd class cities and City of Wichita’s nominee have not yet been submitted. The Youth position has received no applications to date. SG Co Emergency Communications Community Advisory Board

Recommendation #5: Address the high turnover rates at 911 by continuing to improve pay; improve diversity in recruitment and hiring for 911 staff; and add benefits that focus on the wellness of 911 personnel.

Implementation Date: 10/19/2023
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Compensation for 911 staff is under review by Human Resources and County Management. A general pay adjustment and funding to support the proposed plan are included in the 2023 Recommended Budget. Specific details of 911 compensation is anticipated before final Budget adoption on August 24.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • The County Commission approved a pay plan to enhance compensation for 911 personnel on Nov. 16, 2022.
  • 10/19/2023 Update
    • Emergency Communications continues to have the support of County Commissioners and County Management to improve pay and working conditions at Emergency Communications, aiding in the recruitment and retention efforts. In 2023, Emergency Communications underwent a renovation of the communications center from April through August, providing for expanded work space and updated equipment. As of November 5th, the pay for Emergency Service Call Takers starts at $19.14, which is a 32% increase from what the starting pay was in 2019. Emergency Communications is slated to end October staffed at 91%, a staffing percentage that hasn’t been seen since May of 2020, with an average turnover ratio of 4% per month. Efforts to increase diversity amongst staff also continues. Currently 16% of staff are identified as Black or African American and 13% of staff are identified as Latino or Hispanic. There are 8 staff members that are certified bilingual for Spanish translation. Recruitment efforts will continue to focus broadly on diversity, with emphasis on recruiting in the Asian community.
  • 3/3/2024 Update
    • Emergency Communications employees received a six percent pay increase in March 2024 bring the starting pay rates up to:
      • Emergency Service Call Taker - $20.10
      • Emergency Service Dispatcher I - $22.17
      • Emergency Service Dispatcher II - $24.43
  • 10/28/2024 Update
    • Emergency Communications was authorized ten (10) additional full time positions in the 2025 budget to staff four (4) Quality Improvement Specialist positions and six (6) dispatcher III positions to support employee development and training and to support the move toward a dedicated call taker and discipline specific dispatching staffing model. Emergency Communications hired many of the personnel into two call taker academies in October 2024 to facilitate an early launch these initiatives, ahead of the January 2025 budget initiation date.

Foster Care (KS)

Recommendation #1: Fully funding evidence-based prevention and early intervention programs for youth and families before youth are placed in the foster care system, including intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) services, support for families in the home, behavioral programs, and substance abuse programs, among others.

Implementation Date: 7/1/2023
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Funding for evidence-based prevention programs through Family First in the DCF budget for SFY23 increased $7 million all funds to a total of $20 million. Family First Prevention Programs are federal and state funded programs to support children remaining safely in their home through in-home prevention services.
    • Family Preservation services are offered to families where there are identified needs that place the child(ren) in the home at risk for removal. Family Preservation offers in-home treatment and/or case management services to support the family.
    • TANF Grant funds are utilized to help support prevention services (Families First and Family Preservation), as well as after school and community-based programs, including Communities in Schools, YouThrive, Kansas Early Head Start, Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG), Heartland RADAC, KS Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs, Project Rise (KVC). Youth and Stability TANF Grants support programs which include: The Mirror Inc Work for Success Program, The International Rescue Committee (IRC) Trauma Adapted-Family Connections, Mental Health Association Strengthening Families Program, Healthy Families Program (KCSL), Connections to Success.
  • 10/19/2022 Update
    • DCF funds many well-supported, evidence-based prevention programs in family first, family preservation as well as evidence-based home visiting programs with TANF and do so to the fullest extent of our allocated budget.
  • 4/14/2023 Update
    • DCF announced grants for Family First Programming to take effect July 1, 2023. These grants provide an array of services for families throughout the state, to include services focused on mental health services, parent skill building, kinship navigation, and substance use services. Please see attached information regarding the Family First Prevention Services Act Referral and Outcome Summary for more information on how these in-home services are impacting families throughout the state.
  • 4/11/2024 Update

    • DCF offers Family First programming as prevention and early intervention services for families. These programs provide an array of services for families throughout the state, to include services focused on mental health services, parent skill building, kinship navigation, and substance use services. DCF has partnered with Families Together to implement a new array of services to families who have a child on the I/DD waiver waitlist, to help provide support needed to maintain the child safely in the parental home. The Urban League of Kansas and the Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL) received funding and support from DCF to develop Family Resource Centers in Wichita. These programs focus on providing prevention support to families, which includes: peer support, parent support, access to resources, job skills training, health screenings, legal services and childcare. 

Recommendation #2: Requiring the Child Placing Agency and/or Case Management Provider has a local contact trained in mental health crisis response on call by phone 24/7 to guide foster families facing a mental health crisis toward mobile mental health responders and other local resources; and create consequences for any agency not following this requirement.

Implementation Date: 7/16/2023
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • DCF has implemented the Family Crisis Response Helpline- 24/7 crisis line that offers crisis intervention and mobile response to families and individuals experiencing a mental health crisis, as well as connection to local Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs).
    • Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL) has a free, confidential support line for families in the state: 1-800-CHILDREN. This information is provided to Foster Care Case Management Providers and Child Placing Agencies to share with foster and birth/kinship families.
    • Foster Care Case Management Providers and Child Placing Agencies have protocols in place regarding having an on-call crisis staff available to families.
    • DCF will consider and develop further protocols through our grant and provider agreement processes, as well as community conversation sessions which will be held in Summer of 2022, as required by HB2510 omnibus for DCF to gather information on performance-based contracts.
  • 12/5/2022 Update
    • Foster Care Case Management Providers and Child Placing Agencies have protocols in place regarding having an on-call crisis staff available to families. DCF, the Child Placing Agencies and Case Management Providers are engaged in ongoing policy workgroups to continue to address timely access to mental health services.
    • DCF completed a number of community conversations during the Summer of 2022, as required by HB2510 omnibus to gather information on performance-based contracts. The Wichita Region hosted a meeting at the Wichita Service Center on Aug.24, 2022 as reported to the members of the taskforce on Aug. 29 at the Ninety-Day Task Force Follow-up meeting, At the request of taskforce members in attendance during the follow-up meeting, DCF hosted a special virtual session specifically for members of the taskforce to have the opportunity to offer additional input. This meeting occurred on Aug. 30 over the lunch hour. All information gleaned from both Wichita meetings was forwarded to Central Office and is being put into a report to the Kansas State Legislature to be shared during the 2023 Legislative Session.
  • 4/14/2023 Update
    • The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline became available on July 16 across the state and nation. This line is available for anyone who needs support for a suicidal, mental health and/or substance use crisis. Information on this resource has been provided to CPAs and CMPs to share with families.
    • DCF, SFM, the Wichita Police Department, Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Department and Sedgwick County JIAC have been regularly meeting to better partner around how to more effectively address crisis situations that involve calls to SFM on-call and law enforcement. Policy and process are being reviewed to ensure each agency has a clear understanding of how other systems are required to respond and where we can make improvements to ensure youth and families receive the response needed for the situation.

Recommendation #3: Creating an eco-system that connects community resources, grassroot organizations, advocates, coaches, champions, and others with the Kansas Department of Children and Families (DCF), Law Enforcement, Sedgwick County COMCARE, Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center (JIAC) and Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF) and other systems that serve foster care children in a mental health crisis.

Implementation Date: 7/1/24
Implementation Details:

  • 8/19/2024 Update
    • DCF continues to partner with community agencies to connect community resources to individuals and families in the areas in which we serve. On 8/8/24, DCF will be joining other community agencies in hosting the Together Sedgwick County Community Resource and Job Fair at the Boys and Girls Club. This free event hopes to reach members of the community to offer resources and employment opportunities.
    • On July 19th, the Wichita Region for DCF announced the selected grantee to implement the new Child & Family Well-being Continuum of Care Coalition. DCF funding for the establishment of the coalition is for SFY’25- SFY’27. This Child and Family Well-being Continuum of Care Coalition is focused on strengthening child and family well-being by honoring connection and belonging, while leveraging diverse expertise and collective impact. If you are interested in getting involved with the Coalition, you can contact Jae at the following email address: Jae@gatheredstrong.com or watch for updates at Home - Gathered (gatheredstrong.com)
  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • The Interagency and Community Advisory Board (ICAB) is a Kansas cross-system multi-agency and community collaboration, including law enforcement and corrections sectors, that was established to support two statewide implementations: the Family First Prevention Services Act and Kansas Strong for Children and Families.
    • Sedgwick County has its own board, with a feedback loop to the Statewide board and other regional boards in the state.
    • DCF works in collaboration with several agencies in the Sedgwick County Community to bring systems and community supports together to address the needs of cross-systems youth. This group has been designated as a Multidisciplinary Team and meets monthly to discuss processes and protocols related to serving cross-systems youth in the community. This work is done in conjunction with the work done in the Crossover Youth State Implementation Team.
  • 12/5/2022 Update
    • DCF continues to engage with the Sedgwick County Department of Corrections and other community stakeholders to evaluate the use of an Individual Justice Plan (IJP) to create better cross-system support for youth diagnosed with mental health and/or developmental disability. Wichita State University’s Community Engagement Institute (CEI) was recently brought on board to help facilitate this process, with the first meeting facilitated by CEI to be held on 12/9/2022.
  • 4/14/2023 Update
    • Wichita State University’s Community Engagement Institute (CEI) has been facilitating community-based discussions around processes and protocols for how best to respond to this population in a crisis situation.
    • The Interagency and Community Advisory Board (ICAB) is a Kansas cross-system multi-agency and community collaboration that was established to support two statewide implementations: the Family First Prevention Services Act and Kansas Strong for Children and Families. The ICAB’s overarching goal is to support and activate a comprehensive service array that spans a broad continuum of care for families by: (1) building cross-sector knowledge of needs, gaps, challenges, and best practices; (2) using data and continuous quality improvement to monitor processes and outcomes; and (3) developing and executing action plans to address service gaps.
    • Sedgwick County has its own board, with a feedback loop to the Statewide board and other regional boards in the state. The Sedgwick County group is currently focusing efforts on prevention work for youth ages 13-17 who come to the attention of DCF for “child problem behaviors” and youth ages 10-12 who may need additional support in their home to strengthen the family’s capacity to address the needs identified in their home.
  • 10/12/2023 Update
    • The Interagency and Community Advisory Board (ICAB) Sedgwick County group is focusing efforts on prevention work for youth ages 13-17 who come to the attention of DCF for “child problem behaviors,” and youth ages 10-12 who may need additional support in their home to strengthen the family’s capacity to address the needs identified. Work is currently being done to compile resources and services available in the community to serve this population, as well as develop a plan to distribute the information widely so others in the community could utilize and access these resources, as well.
  • 4/11/2024 Update
    • Members of the ICAB recently collaborated with representatives from the Four Questions Expand and Leverage Community Resources Action Circle to host Network Sedgwick County on 3/22 from 10:00am-3:00pm. This event was hosted by DCF, Sedgwick County Health Department and K.U.'s KinVest program. The event offered the opportunity for professionals and para-professionals working to support child and family well-being to network with one another and learn about programs and services available in Sedgwick County. There were approximately 70 programs/organizations represented and nearly 300 people in attendance throughout the day.

Recommendation #4: Formalizing standard procedures so both the Child Placing Agency and Case Management providers are legally responsible for the foster children in their care.

Implementation Date: 8/29/2022
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Both the Child Placing Agency and Case Management Providers have guidelines that reflect their responsibilities for children in foster care in Kansas. Both entities have requirements to ensure safety and wellbeing for children in care placed in foster homes in Kansas.

Recommendation #5: Developing and implementing standardized training for foster care, law enforcement, 911, JIAC and JDF personnel, to include topics on de-escalation, mental health first aid, adolescent brain development and de-stigmatization of mental health, as well as when and under what circumstances a youth can and should be taken to Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph, as opposed to JIAC. [See also in Recommendations for 911, WPD, Juvenile Corrections]

Implementation Date: In Progress
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • DCF will work with the other entities identified on partnership with training to ensure a shared understanding across agencies. Trainings around de-escalation, mental health first aid, adolescent brain development and issues related to mental health and wellbeing are frequently offered by provider agencies; further work can be done to extend invitations across agencies to open up trainings to those identified by the Taskforce.
  • 10/25/2024 Update

Recommendation #6: Requiring foster families to complete a standardized program in adverse childhood experiences (ACES) and trauma-informed care that are culturally relevant, and gender-responsive.

Implementation Date: 8/29/2022
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Children’s Alliance of Kansas offers an array of trainings to address these areas for foster parents. In addition, the Child Placing Agencies also offer training and support for their foster families. ACES is addressed as part of the TIPS-MAPP curriculum, which is the required pre-services training for all foster parents. Kansas Administrative Regulations (K.A.R.) 28-4-806 sets out Training requirements related to licensure of foster parents/families. These recommendations will be shared with existing advisory groups for further exploration.

Recommendation #7: Requiring DCF and its contracting foster care agencies to ensure employees, foster families and foster children receive benefits that include mental health and mindfulness coaches; additionally, ensure staffing to cover employee caseloads so that employees can utilize benefits such as mental health/mindfulness, vacations, etc., and not return to a backload that prevents them from providing the best care to youth and families.

Implementation Date: 7/1/2023
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • DCF has an employee assistance program (EAP) that offers supports to employees, which includes mental health services. Foster children are referred to the appropriate services at CMHC’s and local providers, based on their needs and location in the state. The State Budget has included $7.5 million in funds to help with recruitment and retention of DCF and provider staff. Market increases were provided to DCF Child Protection Specialist staff and supervisors.
  • 10/12/2023 Update
    • Foster children are referred to the appropriate services at CMHC’s and local providers, based on their needs and location in the state. Policy changes as of July 1, 2023, dictate enhanced communication between the Case Management Providers and Community Mental Health Agencies, which includes a dedicated email box to communicate and refer children for services. Foster parents and relative/kinship providers are now able to provide for consent for mental health treatment for children in DCF custody, if efforts to obtain parental permission have failed. This will allow for more timely referrals to services for children in care.

Recommendation #8: Expanding the Crossover Youth Practice Model for sharing data and system protocols between DCF, school districts, and the juvenile justice system, to allow those agencies to effectively serve the foster youth in their care.

Implementation Date: 7/1/24
Implementation Details:

  • 8/19/2024 Update
    • On 7/1/24, the foster care contractor for Sedgwick County changed from St. Francis Ministries to EmberHope Connections (EHC). EHC has a team of case managers that are dedicated to serving crossover youth and supporting them in meeting their individualized needs. EHC has partnered with Georgetown University to implement the Crossover Youth Practice Model within their agency, as well as join the ongoing efforts already underway in Sedgwick County with the current practice of the Crossover Youth Practice Model. DCF continues to have a staff member serve as the Crossover Youth Facilitator to help lead the efforts in Sedgwick County with communication, collaboration and system involvement in ensuring we are addressing the needs of crossover youth in Sedgwick County.
  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • DCF, Kansas Dept. of Corrections Juvenile Services (KDOC-JS) and the Office of Judicial Administration (OJA) are working with Georgetown University on bringing the Crossover Youth Practice model (CYPM) to the entire state of Kansas. The CYPM work is being developed in Sedgwick County, and there are pilot sites in Shawnee and Montgomery County.
  • 12/5/2022 Update
    • Currently in Sedgwick County, we are outlining protocols for how all system agencies respond when a cross-systems youth is identified or comes to an agency for services. We will use that information to identify areas for improvement in the system to target to better serve youth who are dually involved in the CINC and JO systems.
  • 4/14/2023 Update
    • The CYPM Oversight Committee has almost completed the process for outlining protocols for how our overall system responds when a crossover youth is identified. We are currently working with Georgetown University to further refine the process and develop a system response to these youth. Beginning in April 2023, a multi-disciplinary team will convene when we have a crossover youth identified to plan for services and supports for the youth and their family.
  • 10/12/2023 Update
    • The CYPM Oversight Committee has almost completed the process for outlining protocols for how our overall system responds when a crossover youth is identified. We are currently working with Georgetown University to further refine the process and develop a system response to these youth. Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) staffings are occurring for crossover youth who meet certain risk criteria, to allow for planning and coordination of services amongst agencies. Representatives from Sedgwick County are participating in the Statewide Crossover Youth Policy Team meetings.
  • 4/11/2024 Update
    • The CYPM Oversight Committee has almost completed the process for outlining protocols for how our overall system responds when a crossover youth is identified. We are currently working with Georgetown University to further refine the process and develop a system response to these youth. We are currently working with Georgetown University to examine our system protocols to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. The work down with the Individualized Justice Plans (IJP) ties into the crossover work in Sedgwick County. Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) staffings are occurring for crossover youth who meet certain risk criteria, to allow for planning and coordination of services amongst agencies. Representatives from Sedgwick County are participating in the Statewide Crossover Youth Policy Team meetings.

Recommendation #9: Supporting the passage of HB 2468 and HB 2469, which establishes the foster youth and foster parent bill of rights and requires distribution to each foster youth and foster family; ask Sedgwick County to add HB 2468 and HB 2469 to its 2023 Legislative Agenda.

Implementation Date: 4/24/2023
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • DCF policy outlines rights as a foster youth in care in Kansas (DCF PPM, Appendix 7D): Rights for Kansas Foster Youth (ks.gov), as well as rights of a foster parent in Kansas (DCF PPM, Appendix 5O): Appendix_5O.pdf (ks.gov). DCF has supported both bills and provided testimony in favor of 2468; however ultimately, neither bill became law.
  • 10/19/2022 Update
    • DCF provided written proponent testimony in support of both of these bills during the 2022 legislative session.
  • 4/14/2023 Update
    • HB2194, the Rep. Gail Finney Memorial Foster Care Bill of Rights, is proposed legislation in the 2023 Legislative Session, which addresses certain rights for children in need of care and foster parents.
  • 4/24/2023 Update

Recommendation #10: Administering an assessment (using disaggregated data) of the youth in the foster care system that allows root cause issues to be identified and a strategic plan developed that will address barriers and systemic issues.

Implementation Date: 10/12/2023
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Current efforts are underway with the Capacity Building Center for States in examining roots causes related to placement instability for youth in foster care. Through that, data and information around reasons for entry into foster care are being reviewed. TFI and the University of Kansas recently completed a study regarding youth who are absent from placement, looking at root causes and factors related to instability in placements for youth. The findings will be provided to others through research briefs and webinars.
  • 10/19/2022 Update
    • The TFI and KU study referenced in our 8/29 report has been published.
  • 12/5/2022 Update
    • Current efforts are underway with the Capacity Building Center for States in examining root causes related to placement instability for youth in foster care. Through that, data and information around reasons for entry into foster care are being reviewed. DCF and Case Management Providers are bringing this data and information to stakeholders across jurisdictions across Kansas to help those who impact entry into foster care better understand the root causes of entry into care, limitations of the foster care system, and how they can support prevention efforts for families.
  • 4/14/2023 Update
  • 10/12/2023 Update
    • The Wichita Region of DCF partnered with the Kansas Leadership Center (KLC) to conduct a trustworthy engagement process to help us gain insights into the perspectives of stakeholders and identify the challenges and opportunities to impact the number of children and youth entering foster care in Sedgwick County. A diverse group of nearly 130 stakeholders came together over three days to engage in problem diagnosis and deep discussions about action steps that can be taken to protect children and strengthen families while reducing the need for foster care in the community.
  • 4/11/2024 Update

Recommendation #11: DCF design and disseminate a roadmap to assist foster families in accessing local community services and support to aid in the care of youth in the foster care system.

Implementation Date: 4/11/2024
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Roadmaps were created by DCF and KDADS to provide information about the Family Crisis Response Helpline and crisis response services. These were provided to Child Placing Agencies and Foster Care Case Management Providers to share with foster families and birth/kinship families.
    • Each community is unique and offers different types of general support services through non-profit organizations that may assist families, such as food banks, rental assistance, and other opportunities. In each community, DCF contractors may connect families with the United Way 211 resources to help identify what is available in their local communities for services and supports: Call 211 for Essential Community Services | United Way 211.
  • 4/11/2024 Update
    • The newly implemented Family Resource Centers offer assistance and help to families in the communities in which they are located in navigating through services and connecting with the correct entities to receive the help they need.

Recommendation #12: Supporting the enactment of SB 12 (approved in 2022), which requires DCF to develop an implementation plan for a set of performance-based contracts to provide an array of evidence-based prevention and early intervention services.

Implementation Date: 4/14/2023
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
  • 10/19/2022 Update
    • Stakeholder meetings were held in Sedgwick County and across the state in Aug. 2022. The report will be presented to the Legislature during the 2023 session.
  • 12/5/2022 Update
    • DCF completed a number of community conversations during the Summer of 2022, as required by HB2510 omnibus to gather information on performance-based contracts. The Wichita Region hosted a meeting at the Wichita Service Center on Aug. 24, 2022 as reported to the members of the taskforce on Aug. 29 at the Ninety-Day Task Force Follow-up meeting, At the request of taskforce members in attendance during the follow-up meeting, DCF hosted a special virtual session specifically for members of the taskforce to have the opportunity to offer additional input. This meeting occurred on Aug. 30 over the lunch hour. All information gleaned from both Wichita meetings was forwarded to Central Office and is being put into a report to the Kansas State Legislature to be shared during the 2023 Legislative Session.
  • 4/14/2023 Update
    • DCF completed a number of community conversations during the Summer of 2022, as required by HB2510 omnibus to gather information on performance-based contracts. The information gleaned from those sessions was provided to the Legislature in the Performance Based Contracts Implementation Plan.

Recommendation #13: Extending a thank-you to foster families for the support and sacrifice they make in providing homes for children in need of care.

Implementation Date: Implemented
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • CPAs regularly host events to show gratitude and thanks to foster parents for their commitment and care for children in Kansas.
  • 10/25/2024 Update
    • Child Placing Agencies and Case Management Providers continue to host events and activities to express gratitude and thanks to foster parents and relative/kinship caregivers for children in care in Kansas.
    • Kansas Kids Belong has a new program to offer support to foster parents and kinship caregivers. This program is being rolled out first in Sedgwick County. Foster Friendly App - America's Kids Belong (americaskidsbelong.org)

Recommendation #14: Developing and implementing a pre/post survey to evaluate satisfaction of families who participate in Family First and Family Preservation programs. Utilize feedback to enhance program and service delivery.

Implementation Date: Implemented
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • This recommendation will be shared with our advisory groups for further exploration.
  • 10/19/2022 Update
    • Family first has engaged KU School of Social Welfare and Center for Public Partnership as an evaluator.
  • 4/14/2023 Update
  • 10/25/2024 Update
    • Guidance continues to be provided from the Family First Prevention Services Act Council related to service delivery for programs. Our Family First and Family Preservation Programs have feedback methods built into their programming to offer family perspectives to guide service delivery. Outcomes are established for all programs to help track success of families in their respective programs.  
    • Family First Prevention Services Act Family Council | School of Social Welfare (ku.edu)

Wichita Police Department (All Law Enforcement)

Recommendation #1: Increasing funding for COMCARE mobile mental health unit and ICT One, so they can be available 24/7 and dispatched by 911 as a resource that serves the community.

Implementation Date: 6/7/2023
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Funding in the amount of $750,000 for this effort is included in the City's Adopted 2023 Budget. The program is in the planning phase. A meeting is scheduled with relevant stakeholders to provide input on the implementation plan.
  • 10/17/2022 Update
    • Funding in the amount of $750,000 for this effort is included in the City's Adopted 2023 Budget. The program is in the planning phase. A meeting is scheduled with relevant stakeholders to provide input on the implementation plan.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • The implementation plan is complete and approved by both the city and county. The program will be in service 7 days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. Next step: Develop a memorandum of understanding to outline partner roles and responsibilities. County will be partnering with WPD to hire social workers.
  • 2/13/2023 Update
    • City is ready to begin discussions with COMCARE.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • The city and county legal departments are collaborating on a memorandum of understanding (MOU).
  • 6/20/2023 Update
    • The City of Wichita City Council approved the agreement with COMCARE on Tuesday, 6/6/23. Subsequently, the Sedgwick County Board of County Commissioners approved the agreement on Wednesday, 6/7/23. The next step is to post the job positions and recruit behavioral health professionals.
  • 10/5/2023 Update
    • Implementation is in full swing. ICT1 is expanding with four additional teams, ICT2, ICT3, ICT4 and ICT5. Each team will consist of one case manager and one therapist. All teams will work out of the Central Bureau office. All case managers have been hired and are in training. Two offers have been made to therapists. Interviews will continue until all positions are filled.
  • 4/12/2024 Update
    • Implementation is complete. ICT1 was expanded with four additional teams, ICT2, ICT3, ICT4 and ICT5. Each team consists of one case manager and one clinician. All teams operate from the Central Bureau office. Filling open clinician positions continues to be a challenge.

Recommendation #2: Developing and implementing standardized training for foster care, law enforcement, 911, JIAC and JDF personnel, to include topics on de-escalation, mental health first aid, adolescent brain development and de-stigmatization of mental health, as well as when and under what circumstances a youth can and should be taken to Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph, as opposed to JIAC. [Cross-reference same recommendation for Foster Care, JIAC]

Implementation Date: 12/2/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • The County is the lead agency for this recommendation.
  • 10/17/2022 Update
    • The County is the lead agency for this recommendation.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • Some trainings such as CIT and mental health first aid are generally standardized for WPD/Sheriff, and Corrections in Sedgwick County. Sedgwick County / SG Co DoC (through #17) will engage with an appropriate vendor to study the current offerings of the involved agencies and provide an agreed upon training catalog offering "standardized" courses available to / through the agencies. See Foster Care #5 and Corrections #17 for implementation details.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • See Foster Care #5 and Corrections #17 for details. WPD is a support role in this recommendation.
  • 4/12/2024 Update
    • See Foster Care Recommendation #5 for details. WPD is a support role in this recommendation.

Recommendation #3: Creating an eco-system in Wichita and Sedgwick County that provides a tightly engaged network of collaborators between the systems that intersect with foster youth who might be facing a mental health crisis, and the grassroots agencies in the community that can fill in the gaps for these youth. The agencies include DCF, Law Enforcement, COMCARE, JIAC and JDF.

Implementation Date: 12/2/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • The County is the lead agency for this recommendation.
  • 10/17/2022 Update
    • The County is the lead agency for this recommendation.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • This expectation will be fulfilled between Foster Care #3 and Correction #24 (IJP). Progress will be evaluated and adjusted as needed.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • See Foster Care #3 and Correction #24 (IJP) for details. WPD is a support role in this recommendation.
  • 4/11/2024 Update
    • See Foster Care Recommendation #5 for details. WPD is a support role in this recommendation.

Recommendation #4: By 2023, create a centralized database at the Wichita Police Department that fosters transparency in the collaborations that exist between WPD and the community.

Implementation Date: 10/07/2022
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Comprehensive list of grassroots organizations is complete. List will be posted on city/police website by end of August.
  • 10/17/2022 Update
    • Comprehensive list of grassroots organizations is complete. This is a living document and will continue to grow. List posted to website.

Recommendation #5: Hiring (3) full-time and (3) part-time qualified mental health professionals to be on staff to support WPD employees.

Implementation Date: 3/10/2023
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • The city will leverage the in-house social workers to implement this recommendation.
  • 10/17/2022 Update
    • The city will leverage the in-house social workers to implement this recommendation. See WPD Recommendation #1 for implementation details.
  • 3/10/2023 Update
    • WPD has implemented several resources to assist officers with maintaining strong mental health. The Critical Incident Stress Management Team (CISMT) is available for acute incident mental health management. Clergy is an integral piece of the Department's resources to assist with mental health well-being. The city contracts with an employee assistance program, EMPAC, for personalized confidential support as well as support for private counseling. Another tool includes the Cordico Wellness software application that allows officers to connect with topic-specific resources.

Recommendation #6: Requiring mandatory trauma-informed training for law enforcement to better understand and serve all members of the community – but especially those from minority, underserved and at-risk populations who are more likely to struggle with PTSD and other forms of trauma.

Implementation Date: 12/2/2022
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • WPD is on the leading edge of trauma-informed interviewing with the implementation of science-based interviewing technique training. The science-based curriculum teaches officers how to build rapport with individuals and formulate open-ended, non-judgmental questions. All recruits in the last 5 years have received this training. Officers receive refresher training after a few years of patrolling. An advanced 5-day class is provided to Detectives. KLETC is working to incorporate this work into its curriculum at the state level. To augment this program, WPD is researching trauma-informed course options with Dung Kimble.
  • 10/17/2022 Update
    • WPD is on the leading edge of trauma-informed interviewing with the implementation of science-based interviewing technique training. The science-based curriculum teaches officers how to build rapport with individuals and formulate open-ended, non-judgmental questions. All recruits in the last 5 years have received this training. Officers receive refresher training after a few years of patrolling. An advanced 5-day class is provided to Detectives. KLETC is working to incorporate this work into its curriculum at the state level. To augment this program, WPD is researching trauma-informed course options with Dung Kimble.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • WPD has created a curriculum to ensure officers are trauma informed. The curriculum focuses on rapport-based interviewing, which teaches active listening, rapport building, formulating questions, and cooperation vs. compliance for both interviews and interrogations. Additionally, Science-Based Interviewing (SBI) removes techniques and risk factors that have been empirically identified as having led to false confessions. WPD has implemented SBI as its curriculum and no longer pays for employees to attend confrontational/accusatorial interview and interrogation schools and classes. WPD continues to collaborate with researchers to understand best practices and know what works in Wichita, KS

Recommendation #7: Requiring CIT training for all law enforcement supervisors and for all law enforcement officers between their third and fifth year in the field.

Implementation Date: 5/2/2022
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • This recommendation is implemented. Mental health education is a joint training with EMS and COMCARE. New recruits get mandatory mental health training. Ongoing training is optional for officers. Staff will set up online training for ease of access for officers as well as additional classroom training. Sgt. Kimble is coordinating "train the trainer" for CIT which will allow the expansion of training throughout the department quickly.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • WPD is coordinating "train the trainer" for CIT which will allow the expansion of training throughout the department quickly. Five (increased from the original two) new CIT Instructors are planned. Three are identified and in training. Recruitment for the remaining two is in progress.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • Three CIT trainers were certified in Salt Lake City, UT. The remaining two will attend "train the trainer" sessions in May 2023. A CIT class was conducted in February 2023. Scheduling is underway for the next class to be held in July 2023. WPD is continuing to train CIT/CNT (Crisis Negotiation Training).

Recommendation #8: Creating a culture at WPD that lives up to the expectations to “protect and serve” all people in Wichita’s diverse community.

Implementation Date: 8/23/2022
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • This recommendation is implemented. WPD implemented diversity panels to participate in forums for authentic dialog between law enforcement and community members. The program has been added to standard police training. City Council has hired Jensen Hughes to perform an independent cultural assessment. The contract was approved City Council on 8/23/22.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • Jensen Hughes interviews and cultural assessment are complete. Next step: Jensen Hughes is drafting the final report.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • The Jensen Hughes Operational Assessment Report was delivered to the city in March 2023. WPD is in the process of creating the implementation teams.
  • 10/5/2023 Update
    • This recommendation is implemented. WPD implemented diversity panels to participate in forums for authentic dialog between law enforcement and community members. The program has been added to standard police training. City Council has hired Jensen Hughes to perform an independent cultural assessment. The recommendations report was submitted to the city in March of 2023. WPD is in the implementation process.
  • 4/12/2024 Update
    • WPD implemented diversity panels to participate in forums for authentic dialog between law enforcement and community members. The program has been added to standard police training. The City Council has hired Jensen Hughes to perform an independent cultural assessment. The recommendations report was submitted to the city in March of 2023. WPD is in the implementation process. Progress is being tracked in the Jensen Hughes Dashboard.

Recommendation #9: Enhancing the Axon policy to include language that requires Officers to leave their body cameras on throughout an entire incident, including the completion of paperwork.

Implementation Date: Implemented
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Analyzing the feasibility of implementation.
  • 10/17/2022 Update
    • 1) Random viewing of Axon footage: Short-term: Implement a training bulletin directing Lieutenants and Captains to access and review random footage. Determining a way to ensure this is truly a random process. Medium-term: Conducting best practice research on how other cities manage this process. Additionally, the EIS system will prompt review based on rules such as use of force incidents that exceed a threshold.
    • 2) Leaving cameras on through paperwork completion. The purpose of Axon filming is to record officer interaction with the community. See WPD Policy 716 on Axon Cameras. Policy provides specific guidelines and requirements on when officers must activate cameras and leave them on.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • 1) Staff is updating the Axon policy to require random review of body-worn cameras by supervisors as per industry best practice.
    • 2) Leaving cameras on through paperwork completion. The purpose of Axon filming is to record officer interaction with the community. See WPD Policy 716 on Axon Cameras. The policy provides specific guidelines and requirements on when officers must activate cameras and leave them on. The policy also states officers are to state the reason the camera is being shut off prior to terminating the recording.
  • 3/10/2023 Updated
    • WPD staff is investigating a software program offered by Axon that automates the process of reviewing officer body camera videos. The software randomly generates footage for supervisors to review based on defined criteria. Staff has requested a quote from Axon to determine the feasibility of purchasing and implementing this quality assurance software.
  • 10/5/2023 Update
    • WPD staff will utilize a software program offered by Axon that automates the process of reviewing officer body camera videos. The software randomly generates footage for supervisors to review based on defined criteria. The contract will be executed in January 2024.
  • 4/12/2024 Update
    • Leaving body cameras on through paperwork is infeasible due to administrative and storage cost burdens being insurmountable. WPD staff will utilize a software program offered by Axon that automates the process of reviewing officer body camera videos. The software randomly generates footage for supervisors to review based on defined criteria. The contract was executed in January 2024. Currently in the implementation phase. The use of the software is dependent on the deployment of the latest generation of body cameras.
  • 10/15/2024 Update:
    • Leaving body cameras on through paperwork is infeasible due to administrative and storage cost burdens being insurmountable.
    • WPD staff will utilize a software program offered by AXON that automates the process of reviewing officer body camera videos. The software randomly generates footage for supervisors to review based on defined criteria. The implementation of the software is dependent on the deployment of the new AXON Body 4 Cameras which is complete. Staff is actively building the agency’s hierarchy with AXON representatives for random video review. The estimated complete date is December 2024.

Recommendation #10: Requiring all training related to mental health, trauma, cultural and gender diversity, and implicit bias be required at regular intervals for all law enforcement, JIAC and JDF personnel. (See also in Youth Corrections.)

Implementation Date: 12/2/2022
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • In the planning phase.
  • 10/17/2022 Update
    • In the planning phase.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • WPD requires bias-based training annually for all members of the agency. In 2023, three hours of training will be provided by the FBI on the Color of Law and Hate Crimes. These sessions are scheduled for Jan. 10, 11 and 12. All officers will attend the training sessions. The Attorney General requires that all agencies report this training as a measure of accountability. Additionally, the Kansas Law Enforcement curriculum teaches and reinforces implicit bias training throughout basic training.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • Three hours of training was provided by the FBI on the Color of Law and Hate Crimes in January 2023. Most officers attended the training. Two make-up classes will be provided for those who could not attend.
  • 10/5/2023 Update
    • WPD requires bias-based training annually for all members of the agency. Three hours of training was provided by the FBI on the Color of Law and Hate Crimes in January 2023. Most officers attended the training. Two make-up classes were held for those who could not attend. Officers are required by state law (22-4610 C2A) to attend Bias Based Policing training every year.

Recommendation #11: Fostering a culture at WPD that allows exceptions to police protocols so an officer can escalate above the Supervisor’s order when responding to calls involving foster youth in a mental health crisis.

Implementation Date: 4/20/2023
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Under review.
  • 10/17/2022 Update
    • Officers will be trained on when to involve mental health care professionals.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • Regulation 3 is being reviewed by staff. Industry best practices will be implemented. Additionally, officers will receive training on when to involve mental health care professionals.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • Policy specifically states that an officer can escalate to a supervisor’s superior. The policy was reiterated during spring mandatory training in 2023. Officers were trained on when to involve mental health care professionals.
  • 10/5/2023 Update
    • Policy specifically states that an officer can escalate to a supervisor’s superior. Policy was reiterated during spring mandatory training in 2023. Officers were trained in when to involve mental health care professionals. Additionally, officers received Duty to Intervene training as per Regulation 3.210.

Recommendation #12: Developing and implementing a MOU between the Wichita Police Department and Juvenile Intake Assessment Center (JIAC) that honors the 2016 US Attorney General Opinion and clearly outlines that arrest report must be completed before youth is released to JIAC.

Implementation Date: 8/5/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • This recommendation is implemented. The Memorandum of Understanding is completed and signed by all parties.

Recommendation #13: Ongoing implicit bias training and testing that includes, race, culture and gender diversity, for all law enforcement officers and supervisors.

Implementation Date: 6/1/2022
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • This recommendation is implemented. Bias-based training is required annually. In addition to annual biased-based training, staff is working with the FBI for Color of Law and Hate Crime training.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • WPD requires bias-based training annually for all members of the agency. In 2023, three hours of training will be provided by the FBI on the Color of Law and Hate Crimes. These sessions are scheduled for Jan. 10, 11 and 12. All officers will attend the training sessions. All officers will attend the training sessions. Additionally, the Kansas Law Enforcement curriculum teaches and reinforces implicit bias awareness throughout basic training.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • Three hours of training was provided by the FBI on the Color of Law and Hate Crimes in January 2023. Most officers attended the training. Two make-up classes will be provided for those who could not attend.
  • 6/20/2023 Updated
    • WPD staff is investigating a software program offered by Axon that automates the process of reviewing officer body camera videos. The software randomly generates footage for supervisors to review based on defined criteria. Staff has requested a quote from Axon to determine the feasibility of purchasing and implementing this quality assurance software.
  • 10/5/2023 Update
    • WPD requires bias based training annually for all members of the agency. Three hours of training was provided by the FBI on the Color of Law and Hate Crimes in January 2023. Most officers attended the training. Two make-up classes were held for those who could not attend. Officers are required by state law (22-4610 C2A) to attend Bias Based Policing training every year.

Recommendation #14: Expanding the Community Support Specialists at WPD.

Implementation Date: Not Implemented
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • The Community Support Specialists (CSS) are funded through the Department of Children/Families (DCF). There are currently two CSS personnel onboard. Staff recommends one for CSS each bureau. Staff will reach out to DCF to determine if this program can be expanded over time.
  • 10/17/2022 Update
    • The Community Support Specialists (CSS) are funded through the Department of Children/Families (DCF). There are currently two CSS personnel onboard. Staff recommends one for CSS each bureau. Staff will reach out to DCF to determine if this program can be expanded over time.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • WPD staff is determining the best course of action to fund additional CSS positions. Background: The two current CSS resources are staffed in the Central Bureau. In July 2023, the city is required to cover 25% of salary costs. In July 2024, the percentage increases to 50%. The city must assume all costs in July 2025.
  • 6/20/2023 Update
    • WPD staff is determining the best course of action to fund additional CSS positions. Background: The two current CSS resources are staffed in the Central Bureau. In July 2023, the city is required to cover 25% of salary costs. In July 2024, the percentage increases to 50%. The city must assume all costs in July 2025.
  • 10/5/2023 Update
    • Expanding the program will not be implemented due to budgetary constraints.

Youth Corrections (SC & KS)

Recommendation #1: By July 1, 2022, updating JIAC Policy 8.810 – Use of Force

Implementation Date: 1/13/2023
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Policy has been updated including the recommendations. Submitted to County Legal for review. Team Justice reviewed in August and then on to the BOCC and KDOC.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • TJ approval and BOCC presentation and approval on 12/7/22. Then on to KDOC.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • KDOC approved the Use of Force Policy in late December 2022 with notice to Sedgwick County Department of Corrections 1/13/2023.
  • 3/1/2024 Update
  • 4/11/2025 Update
    • Annual JIAC use of force report presented to Team Justice.

Recommendation #2: Increasing Sedgwick County funding to JDF to provide for core mental health services that also support JIAC, so those services provided by JIAC are not dependent on grant funds for mental health programs at the local level.

Implementation Date: 8/25/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Complete, effective 8/25/22. Grant funds from KDOC Team Justice were used to implement this service. It is provided through our contract provider VitalCore.

Recommendation #3: Requiring a nursing staff person to be present at JIAC/Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF) 24/7.

Implementation Date: 8/25/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Complete, effective 8/25/22. Services are provided through our contract provider VitalCore.

Recommendation #4: Establishing a long-term goal for the Kansas Department of Corrections to develop and implement a strategy that moves juvenile justice systems to a restorative justice system.

Implementation Date: In Progress
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
  • 10/10/2022 Update
    • The Sedgwick County Department of Corrections supports restorative justice and looks forward to collaborating with the KDOC on changes made to the Kansas Juvenile Justice System.

Recommendation #5: Supporting the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Coalition legislative agenda to increase the number of mental health professionals in Sedgwick County.

Implementation Date: 4/20/2023
Implementation Details:

  • 9/7/2022 Update
    • The County Commission approved a new pay plan for COMCARE based on COMCARE’s status as a CCBHC to improve hiring and retention of qualified staff through competitive compensation.
  • 10/10/2022 Update
    • The Sedgwick County Department of Corrections supports these efforts.
  • 10/20/2022 Update
    • Assist and support the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Coalition to develop a stronger workforce pipeline, attract new workforce and support current behavioral healthcare staff.
      • Reduce barriers to reciprocity for behavioral health care workers from other states relocating to Kansas (who have appropriate credentials)
      • Include retired licensed mental/behavioral health employees in the KPERS exemption of penalty list as rehires.
      • Use SPARK Grant money to retain behavioral health care workers by focusing on understating workforce needs.
      • Establish and support the efforts for a workforces/employer incentive program like the Kansas Aviation Tax Credit program but for mental/behavioral health care workers

    • The COMCARE SPARK grant money request was for funding to increase the existing workforce through a scholarship program and to retain the existing workforce through a loan repayment program. COMCARE will be submitting a scholarship program funded by program revenues to the BoCC before the end of the year, again to increase the number of licensed staff in the community at COMCARE.

  • 12/14/2022 Update
  • 4/20/2023 Updated
    • The Kansas Legislature allocated additional 988 funding which will be used by Sedgwick County COMCARE to expand mobile response capacity through added staffing and fleet.
  • 10/19/2023 Update
  • 4/5/2024 Update
    • The Board of County Commissioners continues to support the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Coalition. Joan Tammany, Executive Director of COMCARE, Sheriff Jeff Easter, and District Attorney Marc Bennett are members of the Coalition. Commissioner Ryan Baty and Commissioner David Dennis are Ex-Officio members of the Coalition.
    • The Commission’s 2024 Legislative Agenda aligns with the Coalition’s 2024 Legislative agenda.
    • The Commission led on the state matching grant program to address local homelessness needs.
    • The Commission led and has fully supported the WSU and KU Biomedical School project.
    • The Commission supports the Homelessness Task Force. Commissioner Baty and Deputy County Manager Tim Kaufman are members of the Task Force.
  • 4/5/2024 Update
    • COMCARE's Master In Social Work Education Program currently has five staff members enrolled in the Newman University program with one member scheduled to graduate in the summer of 2024 and four members scheduled to graduate in the spring of 2025.
  • 4/5/2024 Update
    • Sedgwick County continues its work with the Governor’s Advisory Panel for Planning, Design, and Construction of a Regional Psychiatric Hospital in South Central Kansas and KDADs to advance the Psychiatric Hospital project in 2024.

Recommendation #6: Requesting a Legislative post-audit be conducted to examine the implications of the “Stand Your Ground” laws, particularly as it relates to incidents involving law enforcement.

Implementation Date: 10/24/2023
Implementation Details:

  • 10/10/2022 Update
    • Sedgwick County is addressing this issue.
  • 10/11/2022 Update
    • Sedgwick County is reviewing the proper process or venue to examine the implications of the Kansas Stand Your Ground Laws.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • County Management spoke with the Post Auditor for the Kansas Division of Post Audit who indicated this request is beyond the scope of work performed by the Post Audit Division and the Post Audit Committee. The Board of County Commissioners has communicated the Taskforce's request for a Post Audit, or other Legislative review, to all Kansas Legislators for consideration.
  • 10/24/2023 Update
    • Complete

Recommendation #7: Ensuring JIAC and JDF provide trauma care services for youth who experience a traumatic, crisis event while at JIAC or JDF.

Implementation Date: 8/25/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Services included in JDF medical contract effective 8/25/22. BJA grant for aftercare services.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • BJA grant pending.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • BJA grant not awarded. Release planning from JDF to community coordinated with MH providers.

Recommendation #8: Requiring CIT training for JIAC and JDF personnel.

Implementation Date: 9/1/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • SCSO will offer this training for residential staff members and field services staff members. The plan will begin September 2022.
  • 10/11/2022 Update
    • JIAC staff has completed this training. JDF training is pending.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • Juvenile Services staff have been through the basic overview training. Adult services staff members are scheduled. Many of the mental health providers at JDF are involved with CIT statewide. We will explore how we can further use CIT for our staff and clients.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • Juvenile Services staff have been through the basic overview training. Many adult services staff members are scheduled. Many of the mental health providers at JDF are involved with CIT statewide. We will explore how we can further use CIT for our staff and clients.
  • 4/10/2024 Update
    • All Juvenile and Adult program employees received the CIT training, and VitalCore, the in-facility medical and mental health service provider at JDF / JIAC is a CIT provider as well.

Recommendation #9: Creating a database at JIAC that identifies grassroot organizations that serve youth who are impacted by the youth correction systems.

Implementation Date: 8/29/2022
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Initiated and ongoing. More of a “living” resource document.

Recommendation #10: Establishing a “calming room” at JIAC that could be safe for youth experiencing some form of distress, where they can be safely left alone and not restrained.

Implementation Date: 9/1/2022
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Partial completion and ongoing. Furniture replaced. Murals, painting and décor approved/ordered. As a community service project, adult DOC clients will make fleece blankets for youth.
  • 10/11/2022 Update
    • The calming room is completed and in use. Additional beautification may occur.

Recommendation #11: Prioritizing in the County’s upcoming Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) budget updates for the video recording system at JIAC to cover more areas of the lobby and holding rooms, and a recording system that includes audio capacity.

Implementation Date: In Progress
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • CIP process underway.
  • 10/11/2022 Update
    • The audio assessment was completed on 9/30/2022 for both JIAC and JDF. The project is ongoing.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • Developing the scope of work for bids.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • Scope of work completed. Sound engineer hired to develop plan to install audio capability at JIAC and JDF.\
  • 10/24/23 Update
    • We have added Axon body cameras to all supervisory staff members at JDF, JIAC, JRF and in all county vehicles used for transporting juveniles. CIP work continues to add audio to JDF/JIAC cameras as well as cameras to the holding rooms. 
  • 3/20/2024 Update
    • o The BOCC approved a CIP for installation of audio capability to the cameras at JDF/JIAC. The project cost increased to $760,014 from $247,776 to include anticipated acoustical modifications to improve audio recording clarity and intelligibility. The Facilities project manager is coordinating contracts and schedules with contractors to begin work in 2024.
  • 10/25/24 Update:
    • We are completing the installation in a phased approach to determine if the sound quality improves understanding of what is happening in recordings. Audio capacity has been added at JIAC and we are working with the contractors to fine tune the system, and overcome challenges with fixed microphone audio in the physical construction environment the sound study anticipated, before we can move to JDF.
  • 4/11/2025
    • The audio system has been installed. The quality is poor. We are now working to modify the acoustics of the building to see what improvements may be made. AXON cameras have proved to be of greater value.

Recommendation #12: Supporting the expansion of the statewide Crossover Youth Practice model implementation to every judicial district in Kansas and develop local protocols to serve youth with involvement in child welfare and juvenile justice systems.

Implementation Date: 4/20/2023
Implementation Details:

  • 10/10/2022 Update
    • Sedgwick County has been involved with Georgetown University’s Center for Juvenile Justice Reform since 2010. Two groups completed capstone projects aimed at improving outcomes for youth involved in multiple systems of care. In 2015, Sedgwick County became a pilot site for the Crossover Youth Practice Model (CYPM). https://cjjr.georgetown.edu/our-work/crossover-youth-practice-model/participating-jurisdictions/ Kansas has engaged Georgetown University for statewide implementation in two sites (Shawnee and Montgomery Counties). On the state level, staff members at the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), Office of Judicial Administration (OJA) and the Department for Children and Families (DCF) staff the project in coordination with statewide and local oversight boards. Sedgwick County continues to refine the CYPM to meet the changing system players in the juvenile justice/child welfare systems and the changes made by SB 367. The CYPM committee meets regularly to update protocols. DCF has a staff member housed at JIAC to assist with the CYPM implementation and data collection.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • Crossover Youth Practice Model (CYPM) protocols adopted in Sedgwick County. MDTs have started to address crossover youth who present at JIAC. Training scheduled for systems stakeholders.
  • 10/24/2023 Update
    • MDT training complete, implemented and ongoing.

Recommendation #13: Creating and staffing a Citizen’s Review Board for JIAC and JDF, with quasi-judicial powers.

Implementation Date: Not Implemented
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Researching possible structure.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • Requesting clarification from the taskforce
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • Clarification from the taskforce indicated that a citizen review board was used in other jurisdictions and that model is the basis of this recommendation. A review board is not anticipated in Sedgwick County. The Revised Kansas Code for the Care of Children and the Revised Juvenile Justice Code (KSA 38-2207 & 38-2208) authorize citizen review boards for children adjudicated as Children in Need of Care (CINC) or Juvenile Offenders (JO). The purpose of the boards are to determine progress in the court cases. There are approximately 1,700 juvenile offender and 600 child in need of care cases filed in Sedgwick County each year. Not all children assessed at JIAC are adjudicated by the juvenile court. The Citizen Review Boards are a function of the Judicial District as set forth in statute.

Recommendation #14: Ongoing implicit bias training and testing that includes, race, culture and gender diversity, for all JIAC and JDF personnel.

Implementation Date: 4/20/2023
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Complete and ongoing. Supervisor Staff Training completed June 2022. Direct Care Staff will be trained June 2023. Advanced training planned.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • New contract with WSU for advanced supervisory training as well as ongoing training for new staff members.
  • 4/10/2024 Update
    • Ongoing training for new staff members. Supervisory staff members will have an advanced training on these topics. The SCDOC has contracted with WSU for formation of a DEI committee. The chair of the DEI committee and the deputy director for administrative services will attend a national DEI training in April 2024 for additional information and resources.
    • Sedgwick County implemented mandatory DEI related training for all employees, which began in January 2024 and will be completed by all employees during calendar year 2024.
  • 4/11/2025
    • SCDOC is sponsoring two (2) community training sessions with the Racial Equity Collaborative to further explore issues related to diversity, corrections and the clients we serve.

Recommendation #15: Ensuring a reliable level of service for remote/virtual access to mental health consults at JIAC and JDF from COMCARE or another mental health provider. The providers need to be available 24/7.

Implementation Date: 8/25/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Complete, effective 8/25/22. Services are provided through our contract provider VitalCore.

Recommendation #16: Updating the language of the JIAC Medical Criteria for Admission Form 8.804 so it requires current and accurate information prior to transfer.

Implementation Date: 6/13/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Complete.

Recommendation #17: Requiring all training related to mental health, trauma, cultural and gender diversity, and implicit bias be required at regular intervals for all law enforcement, JIAC and JDF personnel. (See also in WPD.)

Implementation Date: 8/29/2022
Implementation Details:

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Included in new Sedgwick County training modules.
  • 4/10/2024 Update
    • SCDOC is continuing to provide training on mental health, trauma, culture, bias and related topics through WSU and VitalCore.

Recommendation #18: Developing and implementing a MOU between the Wichita Police Department and Juvenile Intake Assessment Center (JIAC) that honors the 2016 US Attorney General Opinion and clearly outlines that arrest report must be completed before youth is released to JIAC.

Implementation Date: 8/29/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Completed.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • Complete and signed by all parties. MOU’s signed with Sedgwick County Sheriff, Wichita PD and Maize PD. MOUs in process with Derby PD and Haysville PD. Plan to complete MOU’s with the rest of the law enforcement agencies in Sedgwick County in 2023.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • Haysville PD and Derby PD have signed MOUs.
  • 10/24/2023 Update
    • MOUs with Haysville & Derby PD have been implemented.

Recommendation #19: Requiring law enforcement officers who bring an allegedly combative, noncompliant youth into the JIAC to stay on scene, or nearby, until the juvenile is processed.

Implementation Date: 8/29/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Included in WPD MOU. Agreement on verbiage for this item.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • MOU signed.

Recommendation #20: Striving for parity in programs for those impacted by the youth corrections systems, through intentional engagement and funding of culturally competent and gender responsive programming.

Implementation Date: 8/29/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Previously existing programming and will continue indefinitely. Contract with WSU analyzes differential rates of success by gender and race and then moves forward depending on results of analysis.

Recommendation #21: Not allowing a juvenile in a Wrap restraint be brought into the JIAC facility.

Implementation Date: 7/1/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Complete. Modification made to Sedgwick County Department of Corrections Policy 8.804.

Recommendation #22: Not allowing a single JIAC worker to handle intake for someone described as “a combative juvenile.”

Implementation Date: 8/29/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Included in WPD MOU.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • MOU signed.

Recommendation #23: Ensuring all juveniles at JIAC are separated from each other (taken to another room), so they are not exposed to potentially traumatic events in the common areas.

Implementation Date: 6/13/2022
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Complete. Modification made to Sedgwick County Department of Corrections Policy 8.812.

Recommendation #24: Strengthening the Individual Justice Plan (IJP) process used in different organizations throughout Sedgwick County.

Implementation Date: Implemented 4/1/2024
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • Work group assessing state on how IJP’s are used in Sedgwick County. Ongoing work.
  • 10/11/2022 Update
    • Wichita State Community Engagement Institute will be facilitating the work.
  • 12/2/2022 Update
    • SCDOC has contracted with WSU Community Engagement Institute to facilitate this work.
  • 4/20/2023 Update
    • WSU Community Engagement Institute has facilitated three work groups of stakeholders and interested community members. Final meeting is being planned with an IJP process to be agreed upon by the group for implementation.
  • 10/24/2023 Update
    • MOU’s in progress with stakeholders. Training and implementation planned for 2024.
  • 3/12/2024 Update
    • The collaborative effort to develop strategy and process in support of the initiation of an Individual Justice Plan project in Wichita/Sedgwick County has reached the stage where participating service providers will be trained so the project can launch. Thanks to the WSU Community Engagement Institute, Sedgwick County Department of Corrections, COMCARE, Kansas DCF, Sedgwick County Department of Aging and Disabilities and all the other partner agencies who dedicated time and energy to work through the many complexities and arrive at this point.
  • 3/29/2024 Update
    • Over 100 individuals were trained on the Individual Justice Plans (IJP) in Sedgwick County on March 29, 2024. Stakeholders worked to develop a process to identify youth who could benefit from an IJP and on a sustainable process to securely store and disseminate IJP information to law enforcement.
  • 10/25/24 Update
    • Implemented and on-going. A system wide training was held on the IJP process in Sedgwick County. Corrections staff members have been appointed to process IJP’s and file them in our Onbase system as reference materials if youth are arrested with an IJP.
  • 4/11/2025 Update
    • Sedgwick County is a pilot county for the Juvenile Stepping Up Initiative. This initiative aims to divert youth with mental health crises from detention. A statewide kick off training in Great Bend, KS is scheduled for May 2025.

Recommendation #25: Using Team Justice as a vehicle to gain community volunteers for Crossover Youth Practice Model (CYPM).

Implementation Date: Implemented
Implementation Details: 

  • 8/29/2022 Update
    • WSU consultants will have staff identify stakeholders and community volunteers for the CYPM.
  • 4/10/2024 Update
    • SCDOC continues to be actively involved in the CYPM. A DCF staff member focused on crossover youth is housed at JIAC and the project continues to identify youth and provide services and resources to limit their exposure to the juvenile justice system when possible. Juvenile Services leadership and Department of the Children and Families staff member actively evaluate clients identifiable as crossover youth and are compiling data for the WSU consultant’s study, which will ultimately provide informed analysis and recommendations for next steps.
  • 10/25/24 Update
    • Implemented and on-going. Team justice has authorized funding for a study of cross over youth in Sedgwick County to be completed by WSU in 2025.