Meeting With Franklin Police Department
Expanding Autism Safety: Our Meeting with Franklin Police
On March 12, 2025, we met with Franklin Police Chief Adam Colon and Police Captain Brian Pacifico to discuss an important initiative—our JagTag program. This tool is designed to assist in locating individuals with autism who may wander, helping first responders and families ensure their safety.
The Franklin Police Department has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting individuals with autism, and our discussion reinforced the importance of education, training, and resources that can improve interactions between law enforcement and the autism community.
Key Discussion Points
1. Implementing the JagTag Program
We introduced the JagTag, a wearable tracking device that can assist in quickly locating individuals with autism who may become lost or disoriented. Chief Colon and Captain Pacifico were very receptive to the program, and we discussed how to integrate JagTags into the department’s emergency response plans.
2. Officer Training & Awareness
Beyond the JagTag program, we talked about the importance of officer training to ensure positive interactions between law enforcement and individuals with autism. Chief Colon and Captain Pacifico reiterated their commitment to ongoing education so officers can respond with greater understanding, patience, and appropriate communication strategies.
3. Strengthening Community Engagement
A key part of our conversation was the need to build relationships between officers and the autism community outside of emergency situations. We discussed hosting community events where individuals with autism, caregivers, and officers can interact in a relaxed environment, helping foster trust and awareness.
4. Expanding Access to JagTags
We want to ensure that families who need a JagTag can access one, so we discussed ways to make the program more widely available. This includes exploring grant funding, community partnerships, and donation opportunities to reduce financial barriers for families.
5. Reviewing and Improving Policies
The Franklin Police Department is committed to enhancing its protocols to better serve individuals with autism. We discussed ways to incorporate autism-informed practices into department policies, ensuring that responses to situations involving autistic individuals are appropriate, effective, and respectful of their unique needs.
Looking Ahead
We are encouraged by the Franklin Police Department’s dedication to collaborating with us to enhance safety and awareness for the autism community. This meeting was just the start of an ongoing partnership, and we look forward to working together on training initiatives, awareness efforts, and ensuring individuals with autism and their families feel supported and understood.
As we move forward, we invite families, caregivers, and community members to learn more, get involved, and help spread awareness. Together, we can create a safer and more inclusive community.