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La France. Photo: EPD.

Press release from CIT International:

Leonard LaFrance, Commander of Eureka Police Department, was recently awarded the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Law Enforcement Executive of the Year Award by CIT International for their upcoming annual conference which will be held in Anaheim, CA from Aug. 11-13, 2025. It is anticipated there will be over 1,600 attendees representing law enforcement professionals, behavioral healthcare providers and advocates.

The CIT Law Enforcement Executive Award recognizes a Sheriff, Chief or a member of the Law Enforcement Executive Staff who actively supports the CIT program in their community. This person must demonstrate their support of the Core Elements of the CIT program as well as a commitment to community partnerships. This person may be instrumental in driving the creation of a new program or in maintaining a vibrant existing program that incorporates refresher training and other advanced efforts.

Commander Leonard LaFrance exemplifies what it means to be a law enforcement executive who fully embraces the principles and goals of Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) programs. Since becoming involved with the Humboldt County CIT Program, he has served as a Co-Coordinator, lead law enforcement instructor, and champion for expanding mental health crisis response services. He has taken an active role in program development by launching the Community Safety Engagement Team and supporting the creation of the CARE alternate response team in Eureka. A committed educator, he teaches multiple segments of the 40-hour CIT training course and leads monthly steering committee meetings, demonstrating his belief in the power of training and collaboration. His dedication extends beyond law enforcement as he co-hosts community block parties that bring together service providers, politicians, and unhoused residents to build trust and share resources. Commander LaFrance is also engaged in expanding regional CIT efforts and contributes to statewide POST training initiatives. He partners closely with Tribal law enforcement, schools, and service agencies to ensure CIT serves all community members equitably. Known for his kindness, accessibility, and unwavering support of his community, Commander LaFrance is a tireless advocate for a more compassionate and effective approach to crisis response.

The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program is a community partnership of law enforcement, mental health and substance use professionals, individuals who live with mental illness and/or substance use disorders, their families, and other advocates. More information is available at www.citinternational.org

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From the Eureka Police Department:

The Eureka Police Department is proud to announce that Commander Leonard LaFrance has been named the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Law Enforcement Executive of the Year by CIT International. This prestigious award recognizes Commander LaFrance’s outstanding leadership, dedication, and lasting contributions to improving crisis response and community safety.

With nearly 18 years of service at EPD, Commander LaFrance has been a driving force behind several key initiatives, including the formation and success of the Community Safety Engagement Team (CSET) and the development and implementation of the Crisis Alternative Response Eureka (CARE) program. His efforts have helped shape a more compassionate, effective approach to mental health and crisis response in Eureka.

Commander LaFrance is deeply committed to building strong partnerships with community organizations and advancing a wraparound approach to addressing mental health challenges. He has also developed and teaches de-escalation courses tailored for law enforcement, business owners, and community members—ensuring that everyone is equipped with the tools needed to handle difficult situations safely and effectively.

Chief Stephens shared his praise:

“I am extremely proud of Commander LaFrance and this international recognition for his dedication to our community. His hard work, global thinking, and desire to continue pushing forward innovative solutions to the issues we face is both commendable and well-deserving of this honor.”

Please join us in congratulating Commander LaFrance on this well-earned recognition and in celebrating his ongoing contributions to a safer, stronger Eureka.