WINTER HAVEN, Fla. – The Winter Haven Police Department is rolling out a new tool designed to bridge the communication gap between law enforcement and residents with intellectual disabilities.
Through a partnership with the Wallet Card Project, the department is introducing a free, voluntary program aimed at de-escalating encounters and ensuring the safety of individuals on the autism spectrum.
The wallet card provides a quick, standardized way for teens and adults to inform officers of their diagnosis.
Beyond just identifying a disability, each card is personalized to list specific triggers—such as sensitivity to bright lights or loud noises—and common behaviors like rocking, pacing, or an inability to speak when under pressure.
“We could get a call of a suspicious person or somebody acting unusual and when approached, that person may react in a way that the officer is not prepared for,” said Police Chief Vance Monroe. “The officers’ training is vital to help understand what to look for, but also important for the citizen to be able to communicate with the officers and have vital information ready so officers can help and not add to the stress of the situation.”
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In tandem with the card’s distribution, Winter Haven officers are undergoing specialized training. This curriculum focuses on recognizing the mannerisms detailed on the cards and understanding why an individual might not respond to traditional police commands.
By identifying if a person is non-verbal or sensitive to physical touch, officers can adjust their tactical approach to fit the individual’s needs.
The cards are available to anyone who navigates the community independently or with a caregiver. To receive a free card, residents must register online at www.justdigit.org by clicking the “Wallet Card” link.
The registration process requires a name, email, mailing address, and emergency contact information. Once received, the card serves as a vital communication bridge, allowing officers to evaluate a situation and react with the appropriate level of care and understanding.
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