SCSU, Middletown Cops Teaming Up To Help Autism Community

MIDDLETOWN, CT — The Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders at Southern Connecticut State University is teaming up with the Middletown Police Department for an event designed to foster positive interactions between individuals with ASD and the police by way of a mock traffic stop.

The event is scheduled for Middletown High School on April 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

During the event, participants will review and practice the process of a routine traffic stop with local police.

"This can help create comfortability and knowledge if individuals are in that situation," said Bella Cassin, a student worker at the Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Participants will also learn how to use the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles Blue Envelope, which is used to store key documents police need to review.

"Police officers are also being briefed on Autism, so this event truly helps everyone gain more knowledge. For this event individuals with ASD may either be passengers or drivers in this activity, and we have had individuals ages from 5 to 60, so there is no age requirement," Cassin said.

Registration is required but is limited. Participants can sign up through the QR code at the folliwing link — bit.ly/ASD-CenterStore, or reach out to SCSU at ASD-Center@southernct.edu.