The Hemet Police Department has added a new licensed clinical social worker to its Community Behavioral Assessment Team (CBAT), continuing its efforts to pair law enforcement with mental health professionals in responding to residents in crisis.
Alexis Hoffman, who holds a Master of Social Work degree, recently joined the department as a clinical therapist assigned to the co-response team. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of California, Riverside, where she worked with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She later completed her graduate studies at the University of Southern California and previously served on a campus-based co-response team alongside college police officers.
In Hemet, Hoffman will partner with Officer Martinez as part of the city’s CBAT program.
Launched in late 2017, the Community Behavioral Assessment Team was designed to provide specialized mental health support beyond traditional patrol responses. Each team consists of a sworn Hemet police officer and a Riverside County behavioral health professional working side by side.
The program focuses on early intervention and crisis stabilization. Rather than responding only after a situation escalates, the team proactively reaches out to individuals who may be at risk of experiencing a mental health emergency.
CBAT members can assist with referrals to urgent care facilities, coordinate transportation to medical providers, connect families to local services, and provide follow-up visits to ensure individuals receive ongoing support.
According to department data, the program has contributed to a decline in mental health-related calls for service and fewer involuntary detentions. Officials also report that the initiative has saved an estimated 200 to 300 patrol hours annually by diverting specialized cases away from standard police response.
By integrating clinical expertise directly into field operations, the department aims to strengthen its response to behavioral health challenges while maintaining public safety.
