Local law enforcement agencies promote autism awareness and safety resources

April is Autism Awareness Month, and local law enforcement agencies in Washington and Holmes counties are highlighting ways they are working to support families and individuals with autism.

Holmes County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) recently shared a message of support for families, caregivers, and advocates, emphasizing compassion, patience, and acceptance. The agency also encouraged families with loved ones on the autism spectrum to contact HCSO to have their address entered into the CAD system, ensuring deputies are alerted when responding to those locations. In a social media post, HCSO stated their ongoing commitment to serving all members of the community and continuing to build relationships that help them better understand and assist those with special needs.

The Bonifay Police Department is also participating in Autism Awareness Month by informing the community that they offer autism awareness stickers that can be placed on vehicles, homes, or personal items to help first responders recognize and respond appropriately. The department also shared that it plans to join the Blue Envelope Project, which promotes understanding and communication between law enforcement and individuals with autism.

In Washington County, Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) Community Outreach Coordinator Justin Taylor shared that WCSO can flag residences in its system that are home to individuals with special needs, including autism. He explained that families can contact the sheriff’s office to let them know if they have a loved one with autism or other special needs so that a note can be added to their file in case deputies need to respond to their home in the future. This proactive measure helps deputies know ahead of time when responding to a call, allowing them to approach with added awareness and, if necessary, request additional resources. Taylor also shared that WCSO is working to become a part of Project Lifesaver, a public-safety nonprofit organization that provides law enforcement and other agencies with a program designed to protect and, when necessary, quickly locate individuals with cognitive disorders who are prone to the life-threatening behavior of wandering.

In both counties, vehicles associated with someone with autism can also be flagged through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV), providing deputies with important information during traffic stops or other interactions. 

Together, these agencies are working to create safer, more informed, and compassionate interactions with residents, reinforcing their shared commitment to inclusion and community awareness.