Golden, Colorado — August 2025 — The Jefferson County Regional Crisis Intervention Team (“CIT”) Program, which includes the Golden Police Department among its core partners, has been awarded Gold Level Certification by CIT International.

CIT Programs are community partnerships between law enforcement, behavioral healthcare professionals, and individuals and families impacted by mental illness, substance use disorder, or intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their mission is to improve responses to behavioral health crises, advocate for services, train first responders, and strengthen community trust.

Based on the nationally recognized “Memphis Model,” CIT programs have been implemented across the United States and internationally since 1988. Certification reflects how closely a program aligns with best practices. A Gold Level Program represents an outstanding model of collaboration and training.

The Jefferson County CIT Program is a partnership between the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Lakewood Police Department, Arvada Police Department, Wheat Ridge Police Department, Golden Police Department, and Jefferson Center for Mental Health.

CIT International praised the program for its strong integrated crisis response system, officer training standards, and clear policies that support diversion and crisis care. These practices ensure that people in crisis receive appropriate services while enhancing public and officer safety.

This recognition places Jefferson County among an elite group — one of only 32 Certified CIT Programs in the nation, compared to an estimated 3,000 CIT programs currently operating across the U.S.

Golden Police Chief Joe Harvey said, “We are proud to be a part of this collaborative effort. This certification reflects the commitment of our officers and partners to providing compassionate, effective crisis response that prioritizes safety, dignity, and community trust.”

For more information about the Jefferson County Regional CIT Program, contact Officer Joe Page at the Golden Police Department or email JeffCoCIT@cityofgolden.net. For more information about CIT Programs and CIT International, visit www.citinternational.org.

Contact: Sergeant Stephanie Sipes
Agency: Golden Police Department
Telephone: 303-277-8774
Email: ssipes@cityofgolden.net