Cambridge Police Department Announces Autism-Related Initiatives

The Cambridge Police Department today announced two initiatives as part of National Autism Awareness Month, which occurs annually during the month of April. Police Commissioner Branville G. Bard, Jr. is pleased to announce that in partnership with the Cambridge Police Patrol Officers Association and the Cambridge Police Superior Officers Association, the Cambridge Police Department will once again be participating in the Autism Police Patch Program throughout April. The Cambridge Police Department has also announced the recent deployment of sensory “On The Go Bags” to facilitate officers interactions with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Through the Autism Police Patch program, the Cambridge Police Patrol Officers Association will be selling limited edition autism awareness-themed Cambridge Police patches, stickers and face coverings. Prices range from $5 (each sticker) to $10 (each patch and face covering). Proceeds will be donated to programs and charities that support individuals living with autism. Orders are being accepted by e-mail to CharityPatches@CPPOA1969.org (PayPal is accepted) or mail (please include a check and self-addressed stamped envelope).

CPPOA
Attn: Autism Awareness
PO Box 410155
Cambridge, MA 02141

All order requests should specify the products and quantity requested.

Also, the Cambridge Police Department (CPD) has announced the recent addition of new resources designed to help officers better serve and interact with residents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. In 2020, the department purchased and deployed sensory “On The Go Bags,” which contain items such as hearing safe noise protectors and squeezers, to marked patrols cruisers in its fleet.

The Cambridge Police has long recognized the need for ASD support services and has taken numerous steps to include this in its most recent training initiatives and community outreach. Cambridge Police officers have received training on ASD through the Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) program. Additionally, autism awareness was included as a primary component of the Department’s mandatory annual in-service training program in 2019. Student officers participating in the Cambridge-Northeastern Police Academy are also required to participate in a Autism Spectrum Disorder and Law Enforcement training. In 2020, officers received the new “On The Go” sensory bags.

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