Legislation would address gaping holes in how law enforcement and the mental health system handle suicide attempts or threats
OLYMPIA—Today, in response to a tragic murder-suicide that left two dead in Spokane last July, State Representative Marcus Riccelli introduced HB 1448, “Sheena’s Law.” The bill is named after Sheena Henderson, who was murdered on July 8, 2014 by her estranged husband, Chris Henderson.
“Mental health is something we take for granted. But like cancer, a mental health crisis can affect anyone, at any time,” said Rep. Riccelli. “When a loved one is suffering from mental health problems, friends and family are often powerless to ensure that person is getting the care they need. The system failed the Hendersons, and we can’t let this happen again.”
Chris Henderson had made suicidal threats in May 2014 and was taken to the emergency room by law enforcement but, due to inadequacies in the law, he was released only a few hours later after signing a form saying he was not a threat to himself.
“Sheena’s Law” would require law enforcement officers to take into custody anyone who, if there was probable cause, was a threat to themselves. The officer would deliver the person to an emergency room or other facility designated to handle mental health crises. If there is not probable cause to require detention, the officer would be able to report the incident to a designated mental health professional, who would then make a determination for detention under the Involuntary Treatment Act and attempt to interview the person who is the subject of the report, the person making the report, and any family members with information regarding the incident leading to the report.
Under current law, law enforcement officers can either detain a person for suspected mental health crisis under the designated criteria or not detain, without the option to report. “Sheena’s Law” would provide that reporting tool to officers, as well as give family members the opportunity to provide information to mental health providers to best determine whether someone is a danger to themselves.
“Law enforcement officers are a vital part of our community, but mental health emergencies need to be treated by mental health professionals. Family needs to have input in these decisions, to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.”