Differences in communication and behavior often make interactions between law enforcement and individuals with Autism or other mental health conditions particularly challenging, and sometimes even dangerous. In Concord, NC, the necessity of law enforcement officers being adequately trained to recognize and properly handle such encounters effectively is significant. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in every four to five encounters between law enforcement and the public involves an individual with a mental illness (National Alliance on Mental Illness report, 2015). Meanwhile, the Center for Disease Control approximates that one in 54 children in America is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (CDC report, 2020). Despite these statistics, police departments, including Concord's, often lack specialized training for these encounters. In order to ensure safer outcomes for all parties involved, we call upon Concord, NC municipal authorities to implement mandatory Autism and Mental Health training for all police officers. Your signature can contribute to this essential change. Please, sign the petition.