El fiscal del condado de Ocean, Bradley D.. Billhimer, Sheriff del condado de Ocean, Michael G.. Mastronardy, and Ocean County Police Chiefs Association President Michal Rogalski are proud to announce the launch of the Blue Envelope Program, a community initiative designed to improve interactions between law enforcement officers and drivers with autism spectrum disorder. This program aims to promote understanding, safety, and effective communication during traffic stops and other encounters.
The Blue Envelope Program is a safety initiative designed to assist individuals with autism spectrum disorder during interactions with law enforcement. The program provides a blue envelope that contains essential documents, such as a driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance, along with information about the driver’s condition. The envelope is meant to be handed to officers during a traffic stop or other encounters, helping them recognize that the individual may have communication difficulties, sensory sensitivities, or anxiety.
The goal of the program is to improve understanding between officers and drivers with autism, thereby reducing the risk of misunderstandings and ensuring a safer, more positive interaction between the parties. The program also includes training for law enforcement on how to best communicate with individuals on the spectrum.
The Blue Envelope Program will supplement the efforts of the Ocean County Special Needs Registry. In March of 2022, la Oficina del Fiscal del Condado de Ocean, Oficina del Sheriff del condado de Ocean, and Ocean County Police Chiefs Association launched the Ocean County Special Needs Registry. The registry provides first responders with vital information regarding a registrant’s special needs, Información de Contacto en caso de Emergencia, Descripción física, y fotografía actual. Information provided through registration is confidential and will only be shared with law enforcement and first responders during an emergency, or for the purpose of planning an emergency response.
“Ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of our community is our top priority,” said Prosecutor Billhimer. “The Blue Envelope Program is an important step in fostering positive and informed interactions between law enforcement and drivers who face communication challenges. It allows officers to quickly recognize the needs of the driver and adjust their approach accordingly.”
Participating individuals may obtain a Blue Envelope at their local police stations. Family members and caregivers are encouraged to help introduce the envelope and its purpose to individuals who may benefit from it.
For more information about the Blue Envelope Program, including how to obtain an envelope, please contact the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-929-2027, extensión 2209.