I am Crystal Taylor Mecartea, a transgender individual with high functioning autism. I am approaching you with a story that profoundly resonated with me due to my own experiences with autism. Isaiah Trammell, another young adult who also has autism, was belittled and threatened in Montgomery County Jail. During his time there, deputies were recorded on surveillance brutally mocking him and even physically restraining him. Which led to his death. These occurrences are not only gross violations of basic human rights but are also illustrative of the broader issue at hand - the lack of proper understanding, empathy, and resources for autistic individuals in detention centers.

According to The American Journal of Public Health, individuals with autism are seven times more likely to interact with the police than their neurotypical counterparts. These interactions can often lead to incarceration, especially due to communication difficulties and misunderstanding. Yet, our detention centers are overwhelmingly ill-equipped to provide safety and care to these individuals.

We cannot stand by and allow the mistreatment and disregard for individuals on the autism spectrum in our justice system. With Isaiah's story in mind, let's fight for a wider understanding and implementation of proper training and resources in detention centers across the country. To help assure justice, fairness, and dignity for Isaiah and others like him, please sign and share this petition. Let's make a difference together.