SC New York News

U.S. Representative Marc Molinaro has commended Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar for launching a new initiative aimed at improving interactions between law enforcement and individuals with autism. The "Blue Envelope Program," announced by the Broome County Sheriff’s Office, is the first of its kind in New York State and seeks to foster better communication and understanding during police encounters.

The announcement was made in Dickinson, NY, with Congressman Molinaro and representatives from several organizations including Alive With Autism, ACHIEVE, Southern Tier Independence Center, GiGi’s Playhouse, and Helping Celebrate Abilities in attendance.

"I started the Think DIFFERENTLY initiative in 2015 to encourage our community to rethink how we interact with people with disabilities," said Congressman Molinaro. "I'm grateful to Sheriff Fred Akshar for taking this step to make sure every interaction between law enforcement and a person with a disability is a safe one. The Broome County Sheriff's Office is setting a new standard for New York State."

Sheriff Akshar emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive community: “We work every day to create a safer, more inclusive community for all our residents of Broome County. No matter where you are in our community, you deserve to feel safe.”

The Blue Envelope Program draws inspiration from similar initiatives in neighboring states and focuses on four main points:

1. Enhancing Awareness and Understanding: Officers receive quick access to essential information about autism through the blue envelope.

2. Alleviating Stress and Reducing Anxiety: The envelope acts as a visual signal that helps officers adjust their communication approach.

3. Facilitating Communication: Practical guidelines within the envelope enable effective communication even under high-pressure situations.

4. Promoting Preparedness: The program encourages individuals with autism and their families to organize important documents for easier presentation during stops.

Participants receive a blue envelope containing instructions for both drivers and officers, an insert card with emergency contact information, and a vehicle sticker indicating that someone inside may have autism.

Sheriff Akshar highlighted Deputy Ed Hlebica's role in initiating this program: “Any tool that can help us better communicate and interact with the people we serve can help make all the difference... I’d like to recognize Deputy Ed Hlebica...for making it the first of its kind in New York.”

The program shares similarities with the Yellow Dot Program which helps first responders provide medical attention after emergencies by alerting them via yellow stickers on car windows.

For more information or to request an envelope or sticker, contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office Community Engagement Team at 607-778-1168 or email Deputy Ed Hlebica at Edward.Hlebica@broomecountyny.gov.