Law Enforcement Autism New Jersey’s Law Enforcement Initiative continued to build momentum this year by expanding partnerships with law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, the Office of the Attorney General, and community organizations to advance
autism-friendly practices across New Jersey. Through statewide training, planning sessions, presentations, and updated resources, we equipped agencies with practical strategies to improve interactions with autistic individuals. We also continued to grow the SAFE (Supporting Autism-Friendly Enforcement) network, reached communities through more than 25 events, and advanced the development of mandatory statewide autism training for law enforcement. These efforts have laid the groundwork for lasting systems change.
EXPANDED STATEWIDE ADOPTION OF AUTISM- FRIENDLY PRACTICES • Blue Envelope • Registries • Real-Time Locative Technology • Safe Simulated Vehicle Stops
PROGRESS SHOWN FROM: January 2024 g July 2026
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“I have been a police officer for over 28 years, and I have never seen a greater impact than I have with Autism New Jersey’s Law Enforcement Initiative. Their Law Enforcement
Advisory Committee (LEAC) has successfully identified and addressed the most pressing needs of individuals with autism during an emergency response.”
Edison Township Police Captain Jason Gerba g
Doreen Yanik, Esq., a former county prosecutor, has a demonstrated history of success. As our law enforcement initiative director, she has made great strides in helping law enforcement in New Jersey to be among the most autism-friendly in the nation.
NUMBER OF PRACTICES IMPLEMENTED IN THE COUNTY ZERO
ONE TWO THREE FOUR
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