Mediation Response Unit
The Mediation Response Unit (MRU) is an alternative response team, responding to non-violent 911 calls within the City of Dayton. The MRU is a team of trained responders with a wealth of experience and certification in areas such as communication, conflict resolution, mediation, crisis response, community development, and relationship building.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is our purpose?
The Mediation Response Unit provides an alternative to police response in our community, supporting people in non-violent situations to address conflict. The work of the MRU also reduces the number of 911, allowing officers more time to take higher level calls.
What do you respond to?
We respond to neighbor conflicts, roommate disputes, barking dogs, noise complaints, loitering, unruly juvenile complaints, welfare checks, and other nonviolent calls where people are in conflict or crisis.
How do you take calls?
We have a direct line that anyone can call for service in the City of Dayton Monday to Friday 9am- 6pm – 937-333-2333. In addition, if a 911 call comes in that is appropriate for MRU, we will dispatch ourselves. Sometimes, law enforcement, fire, or EMS calls us for support.
Is this safe?
We don’t carry weapons because we don’t need them. Our team does not do any enforcement activities. We have police radios, and if we feel there is a need (for instance, if the people we are responding to start physically fighting, or if we are threatened), we can call for police. We are trained in situational awareness. The Mediation Response Unit responds in teams of two.
What happens after you leave?
If the person/people we are responding to want follow-up services, we are happy to connect them to resources, or short-term case management. The Mediation Response Unit does not provide long-term services.
What are the hours?
The MRU responds Monday through Friday from 10am to 6pm.
Will the MRU respond to mental health calls?
Mental health concerns are not the focus of the MRU. If a call MRU responds to a mental health concern, the team will offer appropriate referrals. For mental health concerns you may contact the Crisis Lifeline at 988. The Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
If you have questions, concerns or would like to provide feedback about the MRU, you may reach out to the Acting Coordinator, Aaron Primm, via email at aaron.primm@daytonohio.gov or by phone at 937-333-2349.
