HOPATCONG BOROUGH, NJ (Sussex County) – In recognition of Autism Awareness Month, the Hopatcong Police Department has announced the launch of its new Blue Envelope Program, aimed at improving interactions between individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and police officers during traffic stops.
Being pulled over by a police officer can be a stressful experience for anyone, but for individuals with ASD, the situation can be even more overwhelming due to the flashing lights, sirens, and the many unfamiliar noises associated with a traffic stop. The Blue Envelope Program is designed to alleviate some of that anxiety by providing individuals with ASD a simple way to communicate their condition to officers in a non-confrontational way.
The program provides individuals with a blue envelope that contains important information and guidance for both the driver and the police officer.
Inside the envelope, participants will find their driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance, and an emergency contact card. The outside of the envelope includes instructions for the driver, such as keeping their hands on the steering wheel and being prepared for a police officer to shine a flashlight in the car or use flashing lights. On the reverse side, the instructions guide officers on how to communicate effectively, including simplifying their requests and contacting the emergency person listed if the driver becomes upset.
The envelope also features a checkbox indicating whether the driver is verbal or nonverbal, allowing officers to adjust their approach accordingly. The goal is to make traffic stops safer and less stressful for everyone involved, ensuring that individuals with ASD are treated with care and understanding.
The Blue Envelope Program is available exclusively to residents of the Borough of Hopatcong. To participate, individuals can visit the Hopatcong Police Department at 111 River Styx Road or contact the department at (973) 398-5000 for more information.
