On June 17, Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard addressed the community regarding the Rochester Hills mass shooting. The sheriff emphasized the importance of mental health and its impact on public safety and well-being. He noted that the suspected shooter had exhibited concerning behaviors related to mental health, such as paranoia and delusions.
The sheriff highlighted the need for increased mental health resources and a wider continuum of care to support individuals dealing with mental health challenges. He also called for more mental health support for law enforcement and public safety personnel, acknowledging the toll that such incidents take on officers.
Sheriff Bouchard expressed his concern for the emotional well-being of responding officers in light of the recent mass shooting. In response, he announced that the Sheriff’s Office would provide debrief sessions with mental health professionals for officers involved in the incident. These sessions aim to help officers process their trauma and navigate their emotional journey after such incidents.
To address broader community-based interventions and resources, Sheriff Bouchard emphasized the importance of addressing mental health as a serious issue not only in Metro Detroit but across communities nationwide. He encouraged individuals seeking mental health resources to reach out to his office, which offers a list of available support services.
