Special to The News

The Port Arthur Police Department announced Thursday the creation of its Mental Health Unit, supervised by Sgt. Heather Rowe.

It includes officers that have received specialized training. The main objective is to bridge the gap between law enforcement and those suffering from a mental illness, Port Arthur police said in an issued statement.

“Our hope is to assist family members and consumers alike in identifying and obtaining the resources accessible to them. The Port Arthur Police Department Mental Health Unit will work together with local hospitals and mental health authorities to provide the best available services,” the department said.