Stoughton Police to Commemorate World Autism Month with Several Initiatives

Stoughton Chief of Police Donna McNamara has announced several initiatives that the police department will launch during April to commemorate World Autism Month.

“Over two years ago, the Stoughton Police Department began a program to register at-risk individuals to help our first responders in the event of emergencies,” McNamara said in a media release. “Thanks to School Resource Officer Lindsay Bonda, we are proud to expand this important program to include at-risk children, ensuring that our most vulnerable community members receive the support and resources they need.”

Stoughton residents can visit the Stoughton Police Department website to complete an At-Risk Emergency Biographical Information Form. The form will be kept and distributed to first responders to help identify and assist a person at risk in an emergency situation. Residents can complete the form on the police department's website or print and email it to SPDatriskinfo@stoughton-ma.gov.

The Blue Envelope Program aims to ease communication between individuals on the autism spectrum and law enforcement during motor vehicle interactions. Officers with the Stoughton Police Department have partnered with the Norfolk County Sheriff's Office to hand out seat belt covers that allow officers and first responders to immediately identify people on the autism spectrum during an emergency call. To receive a seat belt cover, email SPDatriskinfo@stoughton-ma.gov.

Throughout April, members of the Stoughton Police Department will wear a commemorative patch on their uniforms to show support for those on the autism spectrum. The patch is also available for purchase by members of the community. All funds raised will be donated to the Best Buddies program at Stoughton High School.

Patches can be bought for $10 each at the Stoughton Police Station, 26 Rose St. in Stoughton, with cash or through Venmo, @stoughtonpolicerelief.