Lincoln County launches behavioral health liaison to steer mental-health follow-up away from deputies

Sheriff Todd Brackett introduced Danielle Pierce, the Lincoln County Behavioral Health Liaison contracted through Sweetser, and described the position as part of an initiative to strengthen the county’s response to mental-health and substance-use crises while supplementing — not replacing — traditional law enforcement.

Pierce said she meets people in their homes and communities, including evenings, and that since beginning formal data collection in October she has "seen an average of 16 new individuals per month," in addition to maintaining ongoing contact with people previously served. She emphasized confidentiality, noting that she "does not report information back to law enforcement unless an individual signs a release." The distinction from police, she said, helps build rapport with clients who might otherwise avoid services.

Commissioners discussed data the office shares with NAMI Maine and expressed hope the liaison will shift follow-up and case-management responsibilities from deputies to behavioral-health professionals, improving outcomes while reducing deputy workload. Sheriff Brackett said opioid settlement funds helped launch the position and that expanding community awareness may eventually require additional staff and funding.

The board did not take an immediate funding vote for additional hires; Commissioners said they will monitor program demand and budget implications as the Sheriff refines the model.