Social worker Mariah Cox has been hired by the Countryside Police Department.
Police Chief Paul Klimek looks forward to having Cox on board, saying that she offers expertise that is not now available.
“The police department has recognized that many of the situations we deal with such as mental health crises, substance abuse issues and homelessness require a specialized response and follow-up,” Klimek told the city council during its March 12 meeting.
Cox has experience working with law enforcement, Klimek said, and will provide follow-up and mental health support services for officers, city staff and the community at large.
The city council unanimously approved the hiring of Cox.
Mayor Sean McDermott spoke highly of the idea: “We look forward to working with Mariah. Thank you for joining us.”
As a police social worker, Cox said she’ll be on hand to help with any issues that may arise like substance abuse or disagreements between neighbors. The plan calls for her to work on weekends at the police department.
“Mariah was referred to me by another police department (in Western Springs) that had a good experience with her boss,” Klimek said.
There’s a need, Klimek said.
“Our officers have a lot of crisis intervention training, mental health training. They do a lot of great stuff for the community, but we recognize there’s a need to go a step further,” Klimek said.
“Mariah will provide a higher level of service than we’re able to,” the chief added.
For example, if two neighbors have a dispute, Cox can step in to assist
“I can go in and try to mediate between the two, figure out the bottom line of the issue. I’ve done this type of work before,” she said.
Cox has a degree in forensic psychology.
Prior to joining Countryside, she worked with the Glendale Heights Police Department.
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