The Fairview Park Police Department in Ohio has launched a local version of the national Blue Envelope program, aimed at assisting individuals with special needs in communicating effectively with law enforcement during traffic stops. This initiative follows a similar program established in nearby Lakewood and seeks to enhance understanding between officers and individuals who may experience communication challenges.
According to Fairview Park Police Chief Paul Shepard, the idea for the program was inspired by the successful implementation in Lakewood. “After Lakewood put their project into motion, we considered it,” he stated. Discussions about a regional approach among the West Shore communities had been held, but those efforts did not progress. The initiative gained traction when Officer Bethany Toth, who has family members on the autism spectrum, expressed a desire to develop the program locally. “She took the bull by the horns,” Chief Shepard noted, emphasizing that Officer Toth tailored the initiative to better fit Fairview Park’s community.
The program is designed to assist individuals on the autism spectrum or with other disabilities by providing them with a Blue Envelope containing important documents, such as a driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance information. Additionally, the envelope includes instructions for officers regarding any specific communication needs of the participant. This aims to alleviate potential misunderstandings during stressful encounters, particularly during traffic stops.
“Dealing with officers, especially on traffic stops, can be a really stressful time for anybody,” Chief Shepard mentioned. He emphasized that the program not only benefits the individuals involved but also aids officers in effectively performing their duties. “If we can make contact with the police officer less stressful for the people that we’re contacting, and we’re still able to get our job done, then it’s a win-win for both sides.”
To develop the Blue Envelope program, the Fairview Park Police Department collaborated with several local organizations, including Fairview Park City Schools, the Fairview Park Positive Education Program, the Cuyahoga County Library Fairview Park Branch, and the Fairview Park fire department. This partnership ensures that the program is comprehensive and accessible to those who may benefit from it.
The Blue Envelope serves as a proactive measure to prevent misunderstandings that might be perceived by law enforcement as defiance or resistance. Participants are encouraged to keep a copy of their identification and relevant documents inside the envelope, which also features their name and emergency contact information. Clear instructions for officers are printed on the exterior of the envelope, outlining the participant’s specific needs.
“There’s a lot of passion behind it to make this the best program that we can make it,” Chief Shepard stated, expressing gratitude for Officer Toth’s dedication. “I appreciate the effort and the TLC that Officer Toth put behind it to make sure that it was done as best as possible.”
Residents of Fairview Park can obtain Blue Envelopes at various locations, including the Fairview Park Gemini Center, Fairview Park Public Library, Fairview Park Positive Education Prentiss School, the Fairview Park fire department, and the Fairview Park police department. This initiative not only highlights the importance of inclusivity but also reinforces the commitment of local law enforcement to fostering a supportive environment for all community members.
