Torrance Mental Evaluation Team (TMET)

The Torrance Police Department proudly operates several specialized details that support our mission of effective, community-focused public safety. One of these units is the Torrance Mental Evaluation Team (TMET)—established in 2015 to improve outcomes during law enforcement interactions with individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.

What is TMET?

TMET is a field-based, co-response team in partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH). The team includes one clinical psychologist and two Torrance Police Detectives, all trained in mental health crisis response.

The team responds to calls involving individuals in psychiatric distress, with a focus on de-escalation, immediate support, and referral to appropriate care. When necessary, TMET facilitates voluntary or involuntary placement in mental health facilities for individuals requiring acute intervention.

Mission and Impact

TMET’s mission is to:

  • Reduce the risk of violence during law enforcement encounters with individuals experiencing mental illness
  • Connect individuals to appropriate, long-term mental health resources
  • Serve as a compassionate, informed response to crisis situations in the field

Additional Responsibilities

Beyond their response role, TMET also:

  • Keeps the department informed on current mental health-related case law
  • Advises on and develops strategies to improve response to mental health-related calls
  • Provides ongoing training and support to patrol officers to enhance awareness, safety, and effectiveness when handling incidents involving mental illness

 

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