Wyoming law enforcement officers face mounting mental health challenges, highlighted by several recent suicides and crises among first responders in the state. Casper Police Lt. Danny Dundas, known for his community engagement videos, died by suicide on Sept. 27, 2021, after acknowledging in a 2020 interview that police work exposed officers to “the darkest side of humanity, day in and day out.” His death prompted the department to recognize that officers endure repeated traumatic events throughout their careers.
The crisis extends beyond Dundas. Deputy Jesse Adams in Sublette County died by suicide on Aug. 19, and three days later authorities responded to a standoff involving a suicidal police officer in east Casper. Michael Hughes is accused of firing several shots during that incident, which occurred after an argument with his ex-wife. He faces charges of aggravated assault and battery, reckless endangerment with a firearm, and property destruction of over $1,000. He had been drinking and was prescribed ketamine, though he said he hadn’t taken it that day.
Limited Data, Significant Toll
Wyoming has “one of the nation’s highest suicide rates” and police have higher-than-average suicide rates, according to the article. The Wyoming police officer suicide rate documented in the 1960s was the highest in the country. Suicides surpass officer deaths occurring in the line of duty. However, there is little comprehensive data on law enforcement suicide in Wyoming, with officials suggesting available counts likely undercount the true toll.
Support Systems Expanding
Casper police now offer confidential wellness apps, peer support teams, free mental health appointments with first responder-trained professionals, and four chaplains. The Rocky Mountain Information Network, under the U.S. Department of Justice, is bringing three-day seminars to Wyoming law enforcement and families, with each seminar costing between $20,000 and $30,000. A July 2023 law protects confidentiality of peer support conversations. The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation recently developed its own peer support program after someone advocated for it internally, with Director Ronnie Jones noting they’ve been “a little bit behind the eight ball” but have “the framework put together” within the last eight to 10 months.
Police psychologist Jack Digliani recommends departments develop specific suicide prevention policies and create climates where officers feel safe requesting mental health assistance without career consequences.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://oilcity.news/community/health/mental-health/2024/09/05/suicide-standoff-highlight-police-works-strain-on-mental-health-in-wyoming/