Blue Envelope program helps lessen anxiety during police stops
A new Marion County Prosecutor’s Office program is designed to improve interactions between law enforcement professionals and community members with disabilities or conditions that may require additional accommodations.
The Blue Envelope program serves as an awareness tool for both law enforcement officers and individuals who may experience heightened anxiety or communication challenges during police interactions. This includes individuals with Down syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, dementia, anxiety disorders and other conditions.
Marion County residents can request a Blue Envelope to keep in their vehicles to contain essential documents along with clear guidance for best practices for communication and de-escalation for both the individual and the officer. Suggested documents include identification, vehicle registration and emergency contact information.
The envelope also will include information from The Arc of Indiana on area resources available to people with disabilities.
Participation in the Blue Envelope Program is voluntary and does not require individuals to register with any database. This program is a part of MCPO’s DifferentNotLess initiatives, which advocates for individuals with autism and other disabilities.
Learn more and request a Blue Envelope here.