SUFFOLK SHERIFF LAUNCHES NEW PROGRAM TO AID DRIVERS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 9, 2025

SUFFOLK SHERIFF LAUNCHES NEW PROGRAM TO AID DRIVERS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

In Recognition of Autism Acceptance Month, Sheriff Toulon Announces Second Program to Improve Interactions with Law Enforcement

(YAPHANK, NY) In recognition of Autism Acceptance Month, Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr, was joined by the New York State Sheriffs’ Association and autism advocates to announce the launch of the Blue Envelope Program, a new initiative aimed at improving communication between law enforcement officers and drivers with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The new Blue Envelope Program is designed to facilitate smoother, safer traffic stops by providing individuals on the autism spectrum with an easily identifiable envelope to store essential documents such as a driver’s license, registration, and insurance. The envelope serves as a visual cue for officers, indicating that the driver may have specific communication needs and allowing for more mindful, less stressful interactions.

“Across New York, nearly 350,000 adults live with Autism Spectrum Disorder. They are our neighbors, our friends, and valued members of our communities,” said Sheriff Toulon. “Simple tools like these can be life-saving in emergencies and everyday encounters. The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office is committed to continuing to adapt to be inclusive to all the residents we serve.”

The Executive Director of the New York State Sheriffs’ Association, Peter R. Kehoe added,  “The Sheriffs of New York adopted the Blue Envelope Program, to enhance the safety of the driver and the officer during the traffic stop of an autistic driver.  When a Deputy Sheriff approaches a vehicle after a traffic stop, it is a tense time for both the Deputy and for the driver, neither knowing exactly what they are about to encounter.  When a driver displays the Blue Envelope upon being stopped, the officer knows immediately that they are dealing with a special situation and can react accordingly.  Sheriffs do not want a simple traffic stop to turn into something much worse, and the Blue Envelope Program helps assure that.”

This initiative builds upon the success of the visual Autism Emergency Aid Card Sheriff Toulon introduced last year. The card uses visual symbols and prompts to help individuals with autism communicate during emergencies or routine interactions with deputies. Every Suffolk County Deputy Sheriff is trained in the card and carries the card in their vehicle. Copies are available to residents who request them.

For more information about the Blue Envelope Program, the Autism Emergency Aid Card, or how to receive one visit: www.SuffolkSheriff.com