Las Vegas Officers Embrace Mental Wellness with New Bureau Initiative

Las Vegas Officers Embrace Mental Wellness with New Bureau Initiative

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has recently launched a Mental Wellness Bureau, aimed at supporting officers in addressing the mental strain incurred from their duties. As first responders, officers often confront traumatic events, leaving psychological impacts that they must carry.

Traffic Officer Michael Lemley, a 27-year veteran, shared his experiences, stating, ‘I’ve seen everything from drowned kids, to husband take his last breath after getting shot by his wife, to countless fatal accidents.’ The emotional toll, however, is often overlooked. Lemley explained, ‘There was no decompression, no dealing with the facts, you just carried on.’

The new bureau includes five clinicians, a support dog named Jimmy, massage chairs, and a physical rehabilitation center, known as ProTeam Tactical. Lemley noted, ‘They got me the resources I needed and got to a place where I can work through all the trauma I was going through.’

Chief James Kilber emphasized the necessity of this initiative, advocating for first responders’ mental health. ‘Society has forgotten about our first responders. They are the heroes of this community, and we have kind of brushed them aside,’ Kilber stated. The Wellness Bureau currently receives 415 appointments a month, showcasing the prevailing demand for such services.

Notably, Kilber highlighted the increasing urgency of this initiative, referencing the suicide of four officers between 2022 and 2023. He proudly mentioned, ‘In 2024 we had no suicides, so this program is working; it is paying off.’

As the dialogue around mental health in law enforcement gains traction, Officer Lemley’s openness about seeking help serves as an encouraging message. ‘Me being able to talk about it lets the younger officers know it’s OK,’ he said. The Wellness Bureau not only serves current officers but extends its support to families and retired officers, further emphasizing the commitment to overall mental health within the department.