NJ police department's autism awareness project equips officers with sensory tool kits

A New Jersey police department is equipping its patrol cars with new “Emergency Sensory Tool Kits” and training for officers aimed at improving its response to situations involving people with autism or other special needs.

The idea emerged during Autism Awareness Month last week when Officer Jessica Diaz approached the chief with her proposal, McCaffery said. "She approached me and asked if she could look into it and move forward with it," he said.  "And once she gave me a presentation, I said absolutely."