CHICAGO — In the wake of Officer Krystal Rivera’s tragic death, the Chicago Police Department (CPD) is launching a new mental health initiative aimed at offering faster and more personalized support to its officers.
A System Overhaul Prompted by Loss
Earlier this month, 30-year-old Officer Rivera was reported to have died by suicide, according to initial police statements. However, some individuals close to the incident have raised questions about the exact circumstances surrounding her death.
Rivera’s passing has reignited concerns about mental health care access within the CPD, adding to a troubling pattern of suicides among officers in recent years. In response, CPD announced plans to roll out a new digital intake system that allows officers to submit mental health requests and schedule counseling without needing to speak with anyone directly — a move designed to lower barriers for those in crisis.
‘It’s About Making It Easier to Ask for Help’
Chief of the CPD Bureau of Employee Wellness, Robert Sobo, emphasized the department’s goal of making the help-seeking process more compassionate and accessible.
“You don’t want to tell your story to five different people. You just want to talk to one and get the help you need,” Sobo said.
The department’s mental health team — made up of licensed psychologists and trauma professionals — will now triage support requests based on urgency. Officers who request help within 24 hours will be prioritized and connected with a clinician in that time frame.
Mental Health Crisis in Law Enforcement
Rivera’s death has drawn public responses and fresh calls for transparency, especially as the CPD continues to grapple with officer wellness. At least 15 Chicago officers have died by suicide since 2018. Union officials and families have long pushed for stronger mental health resources and trauma-informed practices within the department.
Experts say officers often hesitate to seek care due to stigma, workplace culture, or concerns about confidentiality. The new system aims to remove those obstacles by offering more privacy and user control.
Streamlining Access Through Technology
In addition to the online form, CPD is developing a mobile app that will allow officers to file requests for mental health support on the go. Officers will also be able to choose their preferred counselor and specify whether they want in-person or virtual sessions.
Dr. Rebecca Boyd, a CPD psychologist, said the new system is designed to meet officers where they are — both emotionally and logistically.
“If we want to save lives, we have to meet people where they are — sometimes that’s digitally, and sometimes that’s emotionally,” Boyd said.
A Culture Shift in Progress
The department said these changes are part of a broader effort to shift the culture around mental health in law enforcement. Sources inside CPD acknowledged that Rivera’s death served as a powerful wake-up call.
“Officer Rivera’s death should never have happened,” said one CPD source who asked not to be named. “We owe it to her — and to every officer — to make sure no one ever feels that alone again.”
Do you believe police departments are doing enough to support the mental health of their officers? Share your thoughts in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
Your story is wrong. Ofc. Krystal Rivera, did not die by suicide. She died by her officers lack of training. He first mistakenly shot her and the. Proceeded to move her not once but twice to get aid. If the initial action of shooting her didn’t kill her, him trying to rush her to the hospital most certainly did. Please cha he your story, it is wrong and disrespectful to her name. She died with honor and pride by her partners hands.
Thank you for sharing your perspective and concerns. We understand how deeply emotional and important this topic is. Our article reflects the information officially released by the Chicago Police Department at the time of publication. However, we fully acknowledge that ongoing developments or alternative accounts may offer additional context.
If you have firsthand information or would like to provide clarity, feel free to reach out to our editorial team directly. We are committed to responsible reporting and honoring the memory of Officer Rivera with accuracy and respect.
— Chicago Suburban Family Editorial Team