Conshohocken Police Receive Unique Training From Autism Center

A new autism center has opened in Blue Bell, and local police are reaping the benefits.

The Conshohocken Police Department will receive a special training courtesy of the new Ruttenberg Autism Center.

On Monday and Wednesday, the Ruttenberg Autism Center staff trained the officers on the force about Autism Spectrum Disorder, according to officials at the center.

The training provided an overview to include the challenges of deficits, communicating, and sensory processes, officials said.

The training also provided first responders with insight and strategies for successful and safer interaction with those who have intellectual disabilities.

“We have an opportunity to build lasting relationships with law enforcement and local disability advocacy organizations, being a more effective guardian of our community," says Conshohocken Police Chief Chief Michael Orler. "We are aiming to be more informed and prevent tragedy when first responders have interaction with those who have intellectual disabilities.”

Ruttenberg has a team of medical doctors, psychologists, and psychiatrists specially trained in autism.

They are located on 1740 Walton Road in Blue Bell.