Sheriff’s department welcomes new Crisis Intervention Team coordinator

You may notice a new face up at the Ozark County Sheriff’s Department these days. Chris Bryant recently joined the department as its Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) coordinator, a position aimed at strengthening how law enforcement responds to individuals experiencing mental health and other types of crises. 

Sheriff Cass Martin says that having a CIT coordinator is a major asset for the sheriff’s department. 

“It is a major step forward in how we serve our community. His role is to help connect individuals with the proper resources when they need them most,” the sheriff explained. “This is a community resource for everyone. Anyone, and I mean anyone, who is struggling with mental health issues, substance abuse, homelessness or going through difficult times can reach out. Whatever the struggle, whatever the issue is, this is the resource here for you. You do not have to be in trouble to ask for help.”

It is important to explain that Bryant is not a law enforcement officer, but his position is a complementary one to local officers, extending the reach of services the sheriff’s department can now offer.

Martin says the position is grant funded, with the first year paid by a recent grant the department received. “Then we’ll reapply for it each year.” 

A non-typical background

Bryant, who began the role in mid-February, is now working to build the CIT program from the ground up while getting to know the community he serves. 

Originally from rural eastern Kansas, he earned a degree in journalism with a minor in criminal justice from Southern Illinois University–Carbondale. He and his wife, Sarah, have four children and live in Greene County, where Bryant commutes daily to Ozark County.

Before stepping into his new role, Bryant spent more than 25 years working in television news across several states. Most recently, he worked as a multimedia journalist for KY3 in Springfield and previously served as chief photographer at KMIZ in Columbia. Throughout his career, Bryant covered major national stories, including Hurricane Harvey, immigration issues along the southern border and professional sporting events such as the World Series and Super Bowl. His work earned recognition from multiple broadcasting associations as well as a Mid-America Regional Emmy Award.

Despite those accomplishments, Bryant said his greatest pride came from telling stories that made a difference.

“One of the most important aspects for me being in news was to educate and inform the public,” he said. “It was a successful story if my work convinced one person to reach out for help.”

After deciding to pursue opportunities outside of journalism, Bryant learned about the CIT coordinator position and applied. Following conversations with Ozark County Sheriff Cass Martin and discussions with his family, he accepted the role and began building the program from the ground up in mid-February.

A new position aimed at helping the community and law enforcement

As CIT coordinator, Bryant is responsible for developing and expanding crisis intervention strategies within the sheriff’s department and throughout the community. He has already completed both the 40-hour Crisis Intervention Team training and an additional eight-hour advanced course, with more training planned throughout the year.

The program focuses on equipping law enforcement officers with de-escalation techniques, trauma-informed response strategies and stronger coordination with behavioral health providers. It also emphasizes building partnerships with local mental health agencies, regional providers and groups such as substance abuse task forces to improve access to care and ensure follow-up support after a crisis.

A real need for these services

Bryant said the need for these services is especially important in rural areas like Ozark County, where access to mental health resources can be limited.

“Missouri ranks in the top 15 for need when it comes to mental health resources but 31st in access,” Bryant said. “Here in Ozark County, the distance required to receive treatment can be a challenge, and facilities in surrounding areas are often overwhelmed.”

Crisis Intervention Team programs are designed to help bridge that gap by training officers to recognize and respond appropriately to individuals experiencing a crisis. Rather than defaulting to arrest, CIT-trained officers work to connect individuals with mental health services and other support systems.

“CIT plays a critical role in improving safety,” he said. “It helps reduce injuries, saves lives and strengthens trust between law enforcement and the community.”

Bryant emphasized that crisis intervention extends beyond mental health alone. Situations such as domestic violence, sudden loss, natural disasters, or even extreme stress and burnout can all constitute a crisis.

“A crisis is different for everyone,” he said. “Being unhoused can be a crisis. A child walking to school without a coat can be a crisis.”

Since starting his new role, Bryant said he has enjoyed getting to know Ozark County and its residents, describing the area as a place with strong communities and natural beauty.

While the program is still in its early stages, Bryant acknowledged there will be a learning curve as he works to establish and expand services. However, his goal remains clear. “To make sure people in need get help and resources,” he said. “Having access to information is a giant first step when it comes to getting help.”

Bryant encourages community members to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

“As the saying goes, it is OK to not be OK,” he said. “And a stronger Ozark County benefits everyone.”

How to take advantage of this help

“If you are suffering from mental health challenges or facing a difficult situation, Chris Bryant, C.I.T. Liaison, is here to help guide you to the appropriate support and services,” the sheriff said. “He is also connected with V.I.T., a resource dedicated solely to veterans who may be struggling. Individuals can call or come in person to the Sheriff’s Office to speak with a professional and get connected to the services they need.”

The sheriff’s department is located at County Road 806, located west of Gainesville. To find out more, call OCSD at 417-679-4633.