A Rough Arrest Raises Questions About Mental‑Health Care

The incident began when officers arrived at a Southeast Monterey address to help someone in distress. The man, 30‑year‑old Dakota John Hadley, was not violent but was in a severe mental health crisis, according to his relatives. He has bipolar disorder and had been experiencing psychosis after using methamphetamine. The family says the call to police was made by Hadley’s mother, who wanted help for her son. She explained that the sheriff’s department had previously managed similar situations without incident, but those efforts never led to lasting support for Hadley. She noted that he often denies needing help, which makes progress difficult. When the officers reached the scene, Hadley was found banging on the door. He was then detained and taken to jail. His aunt, Debi Olsen, expressed hope that the arrest would finally bring him the assistance he required. However, she was shocked by a video released online that showed deputies pushing him to the ground and striking him several times.Olsen believes the force used was excessive. She said that while Hadley should have complied, the number of blows he received was unnecessary and warranted an investigation. She described him as a good person who had struggled with substance use to cope with his illness, and she found it painful to see him deteriorate over the years. Hadley remained in custody as of Thursday. Olsen was able to speak with him that morning; he appeared frightened and sore, having been given medication for pain. It is unclear whether he has received any mental‑health treatment while jailed. The sheriff’s office has not responded to the family’s claim that the situation was a mental‑health emergency rather than a domestic disturbance.