Police Hosting Traffic Stop Drills In Farmington For Those With Autism

FARMINGTON, CT — Multiple area police departments will convene with members of the public in Farmington Saturday morning for a unique program dealing with traffic stops when an autistic person is present.

For anyone, a police traffic stop, even routine ones, can bring out increased levels of anxiety.

But for those with autism being in a vehicle that's stopped by police can create a more intense experience, one that could lead to adverse results should it escalate further.

Area police, though, want to make that experience less stressful for all involved and they're hosting "traffic stop practice" for individuals with ASD, or "autism spectrum disorders."

It will take place Saturday, March 18, from 8 a.m. to noon at Tunxis Community College, located at 271 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington.

The event is being hosted by the Connecticut State, Farmington, Avon, Simsbury and West Hartford police departments.

In addition to those police departments, the event is being presented by Southern Connecticut State University's Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders and SCSU police.

This event will allow folks which autistic individuals in their families or care to "practice the process of a routine traffic stop with the local police," reads an event notice.

Those participating must use their own vehicles and have a current driver's license/learners permit, registration and insurance.

Organizers said support personnel are welcome to attend the program as well.

To register for the program, email asd-center@southernct.edu and include "Traffic Stop Practice" in the subject line. Registrants should include a name, phone number, email and physical address or scan a QR code to register as seen on online promotional materials for the event.

For more information on the SCSU Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders, click on this link.