Officer Shurick was chosen over multiple other nominees for his vast array of work in establishing a Crisis Intervention Team in Kitsap County. He led the effort, during the past several years, to bring crisis intervention training to officers in Kitsap County, both as an advocate and as an instructor. David helped establish the position of Crisis Intervention Officer (CIO) in each of our local police departments, began an ongoing series of meetings to connect these CIO's with community members and providers of mental health care services, and incredibly, worked with colleagues to obtain funding to provide every commissioned law enforcement officer in the county with CIT instruction. In addition, Officer Shurick's efforts helped to secure funding of a county Crisis Triage Center which will provide desperately needed services for people in behavioral/mental health crisis.

"Dave has been a leader in how law enforcement interacts with persons in mental crisis. I have been able to count on him to work tirelessly on this very important initiative and know that he would ensure its success. I'm proud to work beside Officer Shurick and I'm extremely pleased to see him recognized statewide for his efforts", said Chief Al Townsend.

Against the backdrop of ongoing violent encounters nationwide involving the mentally ill, as well as our county's decision to fund and develop programs to address mental health problems through a 1/10 of one cent sales tax; the CIO program is an innovative approach to helping law enforcement handle calls involving crisis situations. It will provide greater safety for the officer, the person involved, and the public.

Congratulations Officer Shurick!!!