East Brunswick PD Joins Blue Envelope Program For Drivers With Autism

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — The East Brunswick Police Department announced it has partnered with the Middlesex County Association of Chiefs of Police in its “Blue Envelope Program” initiative.

The Blue Envelope Program is designed to create safer and more positive interactions between law enforcement officers and individuals with autism during traffic stops.

The program provides autistic drivers with a distinct blue envelope to store essential documents such as their driver’s license, registration, and insurance information. The envelope also includes instructions to inform officers that the driver is on the autism spectrum, providing specific communication tips to reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings or escalations.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to serving every member of our community with compassion and respect,” Police Chief Frank LoSacco said.

“By providing a simple tool for drivers with conditions like autism to communicate with officers during traffic stops, we’re fostering safer, more positive interactions. I encourage residents to pick up a free Blue Envelope at the East Brunswick Police Headquarters located at 1 Jean Walling Civic Center Drive in East Brunswick.”

Here are the key objectives of the program:

Enhancing Understanding: The program will provide officers with immediate, accessible information about autism. The Blue Envelope aims to promote empathy and patience, leading to more positive interactions.

Reducing Anxiety: Traffic stops can be particularly stressful for individuals with autism. The Blue Envelope serves as a visual cue that helps officers adjust their communication style, thereby reducing anxiety for the driver.

Streamlining Communication: The guidelines on the envelope offer practical tips for officers, making it easier for them to communicate effectively with individuals with autism, even in high-stress situations like traffic stops.

Encouraging Preparedness: For individuals with autism and their families, the Blue Envelope is a tool that encourages preparedness. By keeping their important documents in the envelope and understanding how to present them during a stop, drivers can feel more confident and secure.

Heres what the blue envelope looks like:

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