Police are exposed to stressful and traumatic events more than the average citizen.  

To help them work through any challenges they face, there’s a dedicated hotline for officers who need a little assistance.

“There’s always been a stigma among law enforcement that you’re supposed to keep everything inside,” said Amherst Detective Mark Pitirri. 

The helpline was established in February 2008 and serves active and retired Erie County law enforcement and their families. 

Officers can call 716-858-COPS to talk to other law enforcement who are trained in crisis management. 

Up to 45 volunteers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help, and it’s completely confidential.  

“There’s always been a stigma among law enforcement that you’re supposed to keep everything inside,” Pitirri said. 

It's a critical resource, now more than ever. 

“The level of crimes, the mass shootings have definitely grown over the years," he said. "I think the scrutiny that officers are under now is tenfold.”

The New York State Department of Criminal Justice is using the helpline as a model to train volunteers and develop the program in other parts of the state. 

“The stuff that law enforcement deals with is not the norm," added Pitirri. "We almost become desensitized. Over the course of a career, it just kind of layers and there’s only so much you can do without emptying your bucket."