In an effort to combat mental health issues, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office has hired their first mental health deputy. This new position is dedicated to assisting in situations involving individuals experiencing a mental health crisis that require help. Last week, Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shavers swore in Deputy Greg Walker as the county’s first mental health deputy.
Deputy Walker brings over 30 years of experience as a licensed EMT and has worked with mental health patients at the federal level. He will be responsible for assessing the needs of individuals in crisis and determining the appropriate course of action, whether it be providing mental health care, treatment, or placing them under supervised watch while in custody. Deputy Walker emphasizes the importance of providing individuals in crisis with someone to talk to and listen.
The goal of this new position is to ensure that individuals in need receive the appropriate care and support, rather than automatically being sent to jail. Deputy Walker’s role involves responding to calls related to suicide threats and ensuring that the right questions are asked to assess the individual’s safety. The Sheriff’s Office is working on building a team and developing the program further, with the hope of adding more staff and securing grants to expand resources for mental health treatment.
As the first mental health deputy in Cherokee County, Deputy Walker is dedicated to making a positive impact on the community and providing critical support to those in need. The Sheriff’s Office is committed to addressing mental health issues and ensuring that individuals in crisis receive the care and assistance they require.