Authorities are taking a new approach to policing in Middletown. 

Officials held a news conference Tuesday about a $75,000 state grant the department will receive to add a social worker on staff. 

Leaders say the new position will help when mental health assistance is needed – including calls for homelessness and domestic violence. 

State Sen. James Skoufis (D) said it’s a first-of-a-kind position in Orange County and possibly the state. 

“This is going to be a huge, and I think it’s really going to clearly demonstrate that this is the cutting edge in the next frontier in what police departments ought to be employing in their communities.” 

News 12 is told the Middletown Police Department is looking to fill the social worker position immediately.