If a deputy contacts a mentally ill inmate while in custody, who should they call for assistance?

The correct choice, the Jail Mental Evaluation Team (JMET), is specifically designed to address situations involving mentally ill inmates. The JMET comprises trained professionals who have expertise in dealing with mental health crises within the jail environment. When a deputy encounters a mentally ill inmate, the JMET can provide targeted assistance, including assessment and intervention, ensuring that the inmate receives appropriate care and management. Their specialized training in mental health issues allows them to effectively de-escalate situations that could otherwise become problematic.

In contrast, while contacting a mental health expert, the behavioral health unit, or emergency services may be appropriate in certain contexts, the JMET's direct focus and specialized training make them the most suitable option for handling mental health issues within a correctional facility. These other options, while valuable, do not specifically cater to the nuances of handling mental illness in a jail setting, making JMET the best resource for the deputy in this situation.