Livingston Police Receive Autism-Friendly Emergency Kits
Shown presenting the bags are Arnik Narang, Aaryaman Jha, Vikas Iyer and Michael Ileya. Receiving the bags on behalf of the department are Sgt. Nick Collins, Township Manager Barry Lewis, Officer Joy Klapal, Chief Gary Marshuetz, Captain Tom Smith and Captain John Drumm.
OPERATION S:4
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Michael Ileya supplied the Livingston New Jersey Police Department with 47 kits containing autism-friendly items through his Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout Project, Operation S4.
Research shows that people with autism are seven times more likely to have police encounters than their typical peers. The items in Michael’s kits were chosen to help aid officers’ response and interactions with individuals with autism and benefit anyone who displays signs of distress during an emergency.
Each bag includes a weighted blanket, sunglasses to decrease flashing lights, noise cancelling headphones to reduce loud sounds such as sirens, and fidget toys. Michael also included items to assist with anyone who may have difficulty communicating, such as dry erase boards, books, and a portable PECS communication system for nonverbal individuals.
Michael, along with a group of friends they call “The Livingston Super 6,” have been supporting the autism community as Autism New Jersey Ambassadors for the past 8 years. Having a peer on the spectrum in elementary school inspired the group of friends to commit to building more in-depth understanding and acceptance of individuals with autism and their families throughout their community.
To learn more about how you can help connect with your local law enforcement, read our article, Partnering with Law Enforcement to Raise Awareness.