POUGHKEEPSIE – City of Poughkeepsie Police Sergeant Jason Deigan and MHA Dutchess Behavioral Health Professional Linwood Burke, members of the police department’s B.E.A.T. program, saved the life of a homeless man on Thursday night.
The police department’s Behavioral Evaluation and Assistance Team, known as B.E.A.T., partners a behavioral health professional with the police in order to broaden response services to those struggling with housing, mental health, and other issues.
On Thursday night, Deigan and Burke were on their way to the MHA Dutchess Spotlight Gala honoring police officers including Deigan. Before arriving, the two noticed a homeless man with whom they are familiar, who appeared to be in distress.
The man, known to be “somewhat combative” according to Deigan stays under the Route 9 overpass on Main Street, and the B.E.A.T. members interact with him on a regular basis, offering him services. When they noticed his distress, the two pulled over to check on him. “His breathing was very labored and he was grasping his chest,” Deigan said. Burke immediately called 911 and the two waited with the man until an ambulance arrived within minutes. They turned the man over to the ambulance crew and proceeded to the gala, without fanfare.
“I am glad we saw him when we did,” the sergeant said. “We have interacted with him on a few occasions recently to check on him and make him aware of the numerous services that are available to him including housing and medical care. Because of his mental health issues, he is reluctant to accept the help but we will continue to interact with him for his safety,” Deigan said. “The B.E.A.T. program is in place to help people like this and that is what we’re doing.”
Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison said, “Our BEAT program and mental health outreach with MHA Dutchess is difficult work that requires patience and time. We have had successful outcomes and will continue to enhance and grow this approach.”
