The Dover Police Department has announced that two team members from its Behavioral Health Unit will speak at a major national gathering focused on mental health crisis response.
Corporal Jake Shepherd and Clinical Field Partner Watara Heath have been chosen to present at the 2026 Co-Responder Conference in Dallas, Texas. The event represents one of the country’s most important meetings for professionals working on collaborative approaches to behavioral health emergencies.
The conference draws law enforcement officers, mental health clinicians, researchers, and community partners from throughout the United States. Attendees share innovative strategies and successful programs designed to improve outcomes for people facing mental health and substance abuse challenges.
The Dover team was invited to discuss their department’s achievements using the co-responder approach. This model teams specially trained police officers with behavioral health professionals to deliver effective, compassionate, and coordinated assistance to people in crisis.
The invitation to speak at this national event represents a major professional honor and showcases the outstanding work happening within Dover’s Behavioral Health Unit. Their selection underscores the Dover Police Department’s emerging reputation as a pioneer in co-responder practices and shows how innovative work in Dover is helping establish best practices nationwide.
The Behavioral Health Unit has become a central component of the department’s efforts to enhance public safety while connecting residents with essential behavioral health services. The unit provides proactive outreach, crisis intervention, follow-up care, and partnerships with healthcare and community organizations. These efforts continue to decrease repeated service calls and improve results for individuals and families requiring assistance.
“We are incredibly proud of Corporal Shepherd and Clinician Heath,” said Chief Thomas Johnson. “Their invitation to present on a national stage is a testament to their professionalism, dedication, and the positive impact they have on our community every day. It also reinforces Dover’s position as a recognized leader in behavioral health response and police-clinician partnerships.”
The Dover Police Department congratulates Corporal Shepherd and Clinician Heath on this accomplishment and thanks them for representing both the City of Dover and the State of Delaware at the national level.
