What Sheriff's Offices have implemented the Blue Envelope Program?
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- As the New York State Sheriffs' Association unveiled its new statewide initiative to protect those on the autism spectrum with the Blue Envelope Program, many Sheriff's Offices around the Capital Region are beginning to implement it. The Blue Envelope Program aims to make routine traffic stops safer for drivers on the autism spectrum.
Drivers are expected to place their driver's license, car registration and insurance card inside the envelope. Then when stopped by a police officer, the officer would immediately be alerted to the driver's autism or disability and can adjust their actions and reactions to fit the situation.
The President of the New York State Sheriffs' Association and the Delaware County Sheriff, Craig DuMond, said the program was created to streamline communication between the driver and officer during a traffic stop.
"We all know that traffic stops can be a nervous situation for any of us," Sheriff DuMond said. "But for people with autism, there are special concerns with those individuals. The bright flashing lights, the sirens, and the sudden sounds they can create stressful situations for people with autism. It’s also a stressful situation for the police officer making that traffic stop; they don’t know what to expect when these traffic stops are happening."
Each envelope outlines directions for both drivers and officers if there is a traffic stop. There is also a section for an emergency contact, if someone does need to be called for the driver.
Albany County
According to Sheriff Craig Apple, the program is about fostering positive interactions.
"This is a great program," Sheriff Apple said. "It's led by the (NYS) Sheriff's Association, if you're interested in it contact the (NYS) Sheriff's Association, if you're local to the Albany area we will bring them to you."
Those interested can also reach out to the Albany County Sheriff's Office at 518-487-5400 or by contactsheriff@albanycounty.com.
Columbia County
According to Columbia County Sheriff Don Krapf, the Sheriff's Office hopes to roll out the program in Columbia County starting in February. Stay with NEWS10 for updates.
Greene County
The Greene County Sheriff's Office told NEWS10, the office is in the process of implementing the program. Stay with NEWS10 for updates.
Montgomery County
The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office has also implemented the program. According to Sheriff Jeffery Smith, the program will help make Montgomery County a safer and more inclusive community.
Those interested in obtaining an envelope or just looking for more information can contact Lieutenant Justin Smith at 518-853-5500.
Rensselaer County
"There are many adult drivers who are living with autism. A driver’s physical movements or verbal responses which would normally be appropriate during a traffic stop may be beyond an autistic driver’s control," Sheriff Kyle Bourgault said. "There have been some unfortunate incidents where, during a traffic stop of a person with autism, the officer has misinterpreted the driver’s movements, or the driver’s failure to appropriately respond to requests or to directions. This has the potential to lead to a negative interaction with Law Enforcement, which is why I feel this program will be a positive addition for both our Deputies and the community."
Anyone in Rensselaer County looking for more information or to obtain an envelope is asked to contact Kristine Cauwenberghs at 518-266-1903 or kcauwenberghs@rensco.com.
Saratoga County
In Saratoga County, the envelope can be requested by emailing the Sheriff's Office, sheriff@saratogacountyny.gov, with "Blue Envelope Program" listed in the subject line. According to the Sheriff's Office, the envelopes are free for those who need it.
Schenectady County
The Blue Envelope can be picked up at the Schenectady County Sheriff's substation, 130 Princetown Plaza, in Princetown. Those interested in the program can also visit the Sheriff's Office website or contact Sergeant Jeffrey Iovinelli through email, Jeffrey.iovinelli@schenectadycountyny.gov.
Ulster County
According to the Ulster County Sheriff's Office, the agency will be implementing the program in collaboration with the Ulster County Department of Health. Stay with NEWS10 for updates.
Washington County
"This program helps reduce misunderstandings, lowers anxiety, and fosters a less stressful and safer environment for everyone," Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said. "Together, we can promote understanding and safety on the road."
In Washington County, those who are interested in joining the program can pick up an envelope at the Law Enforcement Center, 399 Broadway, in Fort Edward, or one can be sent to you. If you'd like one sent, call 518-746-2475 or email the Sheriff's Office, contactsheriff@washingtoncountyny.gov.
The program is also available in Cayuga, Cortland and Seneca Counties but the New York State Sheriffs' Association is working to get it into every county, statewide. Those who would like a blue envelope should visit their local sheriff’s office.