August 30, 2024 – Charlotte County, FLAutism awareness is about increasing understanding and acceptance of individuals on the autism spectrum. It aims to educate the public about the characteristics of autism, the challenges faced by those with autism, and how to support them effectively. Awareness initiatives often include campaigns, educational programs, and events designed to promote inclusivity and reduce stigma. By fostering a better understanding of autism, society can create more supportive environments where individuals on the spectrum can thrive.
Community Policing Officers of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office will now be driving in brightly wrapped vehicles to promote Autism awareness.
Earlier today, Sheriff Bill Prummell spoke to media members and attendees during a special presentation in which the new Community Policing Officer (CPO) vehicle wraps were unveiled. These wraps feature colorful puzzle pieces and the words “Autism Awareness” – a cause that Sheriff Prummell says is personal to him.
“This isn’t just important to me as Sheriff in protecting everybody in our community, but it’s also personal… I want all of my deputies to be trained in recognizing intellectual and developmental disabilities. It’s very important that when we’re out there interacting with our community, that we can quickly identify what their disability is and how to keep everyone safe.”
Sheriff Bill Prummell
The Sheriff went on to add that the agency has upgraded their “Handle with Care” program, including new window clings for caregivers to add to their vehicles if there is an individual with one of these disorders on board. These clings alert deputies of the individual, helping them to cater their response to ensure a more positive outcome. Identifying these challenges before engaging with the individual can help to alleviate confusion and misunderstanding if they are uncooperative. Recognizing that one-in-six individuals are diagnosed with some form of intellectual or developmental disability, it is crucial to increase awareness and prepare deputies for these encounters.
Lastly, Sheriff Prummell recognized the representatives from the Loveland Center, emphasizing how their partnership with CCSO is invaluable. They provide Crisis Intervention Training to deputies and invite those deputies to spend a day at their facility to engage with their participants. This critical real-life experience helps to ensure the deputies have a better understanding of these individuals and their communication needs. The Sheriff noted that there was another group of roughly 20 CCSO deputies graduating from a CIT course this afternoon.
To learn more about the Handle with Care program, or to request a window cling for your own loved one, email [email protected]. Window clings will also be available at all CCSO district offices.