Swampscott Police Introduce Autism Registration Program

Det. Ted Delano reports that he, Det. Rose Cheever and Sgt. Kable recently received training on autism. 

One suggestion recommended at the training was that the department establish an autism registration process, he said.

Swampscott police now has a voluntary registration form for families to fill out if they want. It is free and families are invited to contact Sgt. Joe Kable, Det. Cheever or Det. Delano with any questions at 781-595-1111.

Information on the Swampscott Police Autism Registration Program

Everyday police officers encounter a multitude of individuals in emergency situations.  Each call differs from the next, so does the individual involved, especially in regards to individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).  Because police are usually the first to respond to an emergency, it is critical that these officers have a working knowledge of ASD, and the wide variety of behaviors individuals with ASD can exhibit in emergency situations.

The Swampscott Police Department recognizes that there are individuals in our community that do suffer from ASD. In an attempt to assist a family in crisis, the department has created a Autism registration form. The form is very easy to complete and we ask for a picture of the registrant to attach to the file. It is the departments hope that officers become familiar with the person prior to a call for service. It would also be used if an autistic child becomes missing in the community. The forms are at Swampscott PD. Feel free to stop by and complete the form. There is no cost associated with this procedure.

Some information about police and a child with autism.

Officers will come in contact with a person with a hidden disability in 10-20% of their calls

Individuals with autism are 7 times more likely to interact with police then their typical peers.

Individuals with autism are strongly attracted to water.

These children have a weak understanding of cause and effect.

Individuals with autism can’t be identified by their appearance. They look the same as everyone else.

If you should have any questions feel free to call Det Ted Delano,Det Rose Cheever or Sgt Joe Kable 781-595-1111.