On Tuesday, May 13th, 2025, in recognition of their work advocating for First Responder Wellness, the Somerville Police Department was selected to receive a Mental Health Miranda Rights Banner created by Officer Dave Betz of Tufts University Police Department. Chief Shumeane Benford, Administrators and several SPD Officers were in attendance, recognizing the importance of this work and the need to continue the conversation.

The Metro Boston Crisis Intervention Team Training & Technical Assistance Center (MB CIT-TTAC), also made available additional First Responder specific resources. The banner will be placed in the roll call room and reads: “You have the right to go on living. We cannot afford to have you remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used to help you. You have the right to speak to anyone and have them present with you when needed. You can decide to speak at anytime you desire to help save your life. Do you understand all of these rights? Having these rights in mind please reach out to anyone when you need to talk”.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 or Text Talk to 741741.

Partnering with over 75 police departments in the region, the Metro Boston CIT-TTAC team is committed to initiatives like this that raise awareness about First Responder Wellness & Resilience. To learn more about their ongoing and past projects visit their website at metrobostoncit.org