Behavioral Intervention Unit

The Bedford Police Department takes a proactive approach to improve the quality of life for our citizens. Furthermore, the Behavioral Intervention Unit (BIU) places tremendous emphasis on proactively addressing the symptoms and causes that lead to domestic violence assaults. In addition, the BIU works closely with the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Mental Health Coordinator to help find treatment and preventative measures to address the adverse effects experienced by those persons with untreated or undiagnosed mental illness.

The BIU is innovatively working with victims to address the underlying issues surrounding these types of repetitive cases. The BIU offers education, support, and community resources for those affected by domestic violence and/or those suffering from mental illness.

In our efforts to assist those who are victimized, we have partnered with Victim Advocacy groups, My Health My Resources of Tarrant County (MHMR), and various other community resources to bring about a future without violence.

Domestic Violence National Statistics

  • 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experience some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. 
  • 1 in 7 women and 1 in 25 men have been injured by an intimate partner. 
  • 1 in 10 women have been sexually assaulted by an intimate partner. Data is unavailable on male victims. (CDC)
  • 1 in 5 children are exposed to intimate partner violence and 90% of these children are eyewitnesses to this violence. (CDC)

Mental Health National Statistics

  • 44 million adults suffer from Mental Illness. 24.6 million do not receive mental health treatment (NIMH).
  • Suicide is the second leading cause of death from 10-14 years and 25-34 years (NIMH).

Juvenile Assistance National Statistics

  • As many as 2.8 million teens run away each year. Many runaways are between the ages of 10-14, ages where they have not learned to take care of themselves. (Family-resources.com)
  • 47% of children experience conflicts with parents or guardians at home. (https://familyresources.org/)
  • 37% of runaway’s experiences sexual abuse at home (80% are girls). (https://familyresources.org/)
  • 43% of teens reported physical abuse as one of the main reasons they left home. (https://familyresources.org/)

Through a collaborative effort between the Police Department, community resources, and the parents of runaway children, our goal is to help determine the source of the families’ difficulties and communication break downs. Once determined, we will work with the family to deter any future occurrences, while at the same time helping to improve their family unit.

Our Approach

With the assistance of the HEB Mental Health Coordinator, the Bedford Police Department responds to the needs of its citizens who suffer from untreated or undiagnosed mental illness.

With our community outreach program, we are making every effort to assist our citizens with locating treatment options that best serve their needs. We help coordinate community resources, counseling services, and local mental health treatment centers to facilitate a speedy and healthy recovery.

Where We Come In

The Bedford Police Department provides officer interaction and services through the Behavioral Intervention Unit that are typically not available to domestic violence victims. Through support, guidance, understanding, and resource networking, the Behavioral Intervention Unit is prepared to make every effort to break the cycle of violence and restore peace and livelihood into the lives of domestic violence victims.