2023 Police Annual Report

OCCUPANT WITH AUTISM PROGRAM

In 2023, the Orland Park Police initiated a process in which residents may register people with autism living in their home. They may also include registration for their vehicles for people with autism as drivers or passengers. Decals are offered as part of the program, which can be adhered near the front door of the home or in the rear window of their vehicle. The decals are optional for display, but the specific information will be logged in the computer-aided dispatch system at the department. An alert will pop up if a call is created at a registered address or if someone’s personal information is run through the system. The program is also available to non-residents who are employed or attend school within the Village. Officers recognizing this decal can rely on their autism training and adjust their apprach to the situation. Understanding that the individual may not communicate, respond to verbal commands or be aware of potential dangers are all part of their training. This training also makes them aware of the difference between someone with autism and someone having a mental health crisis. This is just one more step for the Police Department in their ongoing efforts for community caretaking and remaining at the forefront of modern policing.

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