Crime Stoppers NEEDS Program
(Neurodiversity, Educate, Empower, Deliver, Safety)

Mission Statement

The Crime Stoppers NEEDS (Neurodiversity, Educate, Empower, Deliver, Safety) Program’s mission is to champion the safety, well-being, and empowerment of the special needs community by proactively fostering knowledge of risks and safety solutions for individuals and those who live and serve them with the intention of preventing crimes against this vulnerable population.

What is Neurodiversity?

According to Harvard Health, “neurodiversity” describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways of thinking, learning, and behaving. The term is often used to describe autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADD, Tourette’s, and Dyslexia. Social and emotional difficulties associated with these developmental disorders often lead to unforeseen and unintended legal consequences:

Misunderstanding Social Cues: People with autism might act in ways law enforcement misunderstands, like not following verbal commands or avoiding eye contact, which can seem suspicious.

Sensitivity to Overstimulation: Emergencies can be too intense for individuals with autism, causing stress or panic and leading to responses that attract police attention.

Communication Challenges: Communication difficulties in people with autism can cause misunderstandings or conflicts with police, escalating situations.

Lack of Awareness: Police may not be trained in understanding autism, leading to inappropriate interactions with autistic individuals.

Vulnerability: People with autism can be more easily manipulated or exploited, sometimes resulting in their unintended involvement in illegal activities.