The Marblehead Police Department has joined a statewide initiative designed to improve interactions between law enforcement and individuals on the autism spectrum during traffic stops.
Chief Dennis King announced the department’s participation in the Massachusetts Blue Envelope Program, which provides specially designed envelopes to help drivers with autism spectrum disorder communicate more effectively with police officers. The program aims to enhance understanding among police officers, reduce anxiety for drivers on the autism spectrum, streamline communications and encourage preparedness.
The blue envelope serves as both a storage solution and communication tool. Drivers can store their vehicle registration, driver’s license and a contact card inside the envelope, which features instructions on its exterior to guide officers during traffic encounters.
Instructions printed on the envelope inform officers that the driver has autism spectrum disorder and may display repetitive body movements, fidgeting, unusual eye contact or high anxiety from lights and noises. The envelope advises officers to allow extra time for responses and to use simplistic explanations when communicating with the driver.
“We recognize that being stopped by the police can be an awkward experience for anybody,” King said. “This program benefits those on the autism spectrum and their families, as well as officers, ultimately making somewhat uncomfortable encounters a little less stressful. And, while this program enhances communications between the officer and the person involved, it is voluntary and confidential to those who participate.”
Jessica Brown, a speech therapist and owner of The Power of Speech in Marblehead which provides therapy to autistic children, praised the department’s implementation of the program.
“I was really encouraged to see the Marblehead Police Department implement the Blue Envelope Project,” Brown said. “In 2024 I worked with Chief King to update their badges for autism acceptance month, changing the design from the puzzle piece to the updated and more inclusive infinity symbol. It was clear in our conversations that Chief King’s goal for their department is to foster a sense of belonging and safety for autistic members of our community.”
Brown emphasized how the program addresses specific communication challenges.
“Autistic individuals often have a different communication style, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings with people who are more accustomed to neurotypical interactions,” she said. “For example, an autistic adult might be very direct and literal, which a police officer could misinterpret as rude, disrespectful or even aggressive. The Blue Envelope Project is a symbol to expect different.”
Brown noted that simple adjustments can significantly improve these interactions.
“Something as simple as turning off their sirens, flashing lights or using a non-threatening tone can help keep the situation calm instead of unintentionally leading to more escalation,” she said. “For autistic individuals with communication and sensory differences, programs like this will also provide them with step by step suggestions for navigating the interaction.”
The program represents a collaborative effort between the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, Massachusetts State Police, Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts and The Arc of Massachusetts, along with input from individuals with autism and their families.
The initiative addresses a significant population need. Massachusetts has one of the highest autism prevalence rates in the United States. According to the National Library of Medicine, an estimated 2.42 percent of adults in the state are on the autism spectrum. With a state adult population of approximately 5.5 million, this translates to roughly 133,000 adults. Among children, around one in 44, or 2.27 percent, are diagnosed with autism. With about 1.4 million children ages three to 17 in the state, this equals approximately 31,800 children living with autism in Massachusetts.
King clarified the department’s timeline for adopting the initiative. “We didn’t adopt it just now,” King stated. “When the MSP announced it last year, I put out a statement in support of it and that it was a great idea.”
This year, however, King took more direct action by ordering envelopes for distribution and involving the School Resource Officer to help raise awareness among students and staff at the high school.
Marblehead police officers already receive specialized training through ALEC (Autism & Law Enforcement Education Coalition) and the department has participated in the Flutie Foundation Police Patch program for several years.
Brown highlighted how the program represents a shift toward mutual accommodation.
“An aspect of this program that feels especially impactful for Marblehead is that it asks for support and understanding from both the police officer and the autistic individual,” she said. “Whereas in the past the full expectation would be for the autistic person to change and adapt to neurotypical/societal expectations, this program acknowledges that there are also small steps and accommodations police officers can take to create a community that acknowledges and welcomes differences as a normal part of our town.”
The Blue Envelope Program extends beyond traffic stops to all police encounters where communication plays a critical role. Since the program is sponsored and standardized by Massachusetts State Police, Marblehead residents who participate can expect continuity in future traffic stops, whether conducted by local or state police.
King emphasized the program’s accessibility and potential impact. “I would encourage anybody that thinks the blue envelope program may be helpful to stop by the station and pick up a packet,” King said. “The information that is shared during an encounter can make all the difference in the world.”
The blue envelopes are available free of charge at the Marblehead Police Station at 11 Gerry St. and at any Massachusetts State Police barracks. Residents can also request envelopes through an online form on the state’s website.
For more information about the Blue Envelope Program, residents can visit bit.ly/4mPOzcG or contact the Marblehead Police Department at 11 Gerry St., or call (781) 631-1212.
