Calls to the Lenexa Police Department that involve behavioral health concerns will continue to receive support from licensed mental health professionals through Johnson County Mental Health Center’s Co-Responder Program. 

On Thursday, the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners updated its agreement with the City of Lenexa to continue embedding mental health professionals alongside Lenexa’s police officers. This program allows co-responders from Johnson County Mental Health Center to assist officers during calls involving behavioral health concerns. 

In situations involving mental illness, emotional distress and/or substance use, co-responders can de-escalate crises, connect individuals to appropriate services and provide follow-up support. 

JCMHC’s Co-Responder Program began in 2011 with the Olathe Police Department. The program has since expanded to serve most communities in Johnson County, with 21 co-responders currently embedded in local police departments and the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office. The program is funded by the participating cities, which cover the cost of co-responder services within their police departments. 

In Lenexa, two co-responders are embedded with the Lenexa Police Department. The agreement approved Thursday continues the Co-Responder Program in the city with no changes to current service levels. Co-responders joined law enforcement on 321 calls in Lenexa in 2025, while also providing over 1,400 follow-up calls and in-person visits. 

“In Lenexa and throughout Johnson County, our co-responders are helping us achieve our goal of providing the right service at the right time to people experiencing mental health crises in our community,” said Tim DeWeese, Director of Johnson County Mental Health Center. “Having mental health professionals working alongside law enforcement ensures people are receiving appropriate care and support, while also avoiding unnecessary and costly stays in jails or emergency rooms.” 

Last year, Johnson County Mental Health Center’s co-responders assisted law enforcement on over 4,000 calls to 911 throughout Johnson County. 

“Our partnerships with Johnson County’s cities, including Lenexa, reflect our shared commitment to providing compassionate, effective responses to mental health crises. When we work together, we help people stabilize, connect with care and reduce unnecessary involvement with the criminal justice system,” said DeWeese. 

For more information about Johnson County Mental Health Center and the Co-Responder Program, please visit jocogov.org/mentalhealth.