The Wheat Ridge Police Department is constantly working to improve service to the residents of the community. A core part of service is communication.
Police officers regularly encounter people on their worst days. The department recognizes that coming into contact with an officer can be stressful, especially for people who may be dealing with an invisible issue under the surface that can impact how effectively people communicate.
That’s why Wheat Ridge police is proud to partner with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office to launch a Blue Envelope Program county wide.
The program started in Connecticut in 2020 and was intended for people who are on the autism spectrum. Blue is often a color associated with autism awareness and represents calm communication. Since the launch of the program, it has spread to law enforcement agencies across the county and now here in Colorado. The Boulder Police Department was the first to introduce it in our state, followed by the effort here in Jefferson County. The program has expanded for people beyond those on the spectrum, and includes anyone who has a medical condition, disability or mental-health factor that may impede their ability to speak effectively with officers.
“This program will not only help us communicate and understand our community better but will provide better outcomes for our citizens and officers,” said new WRPD Division Chief Shawn Wray. Division Chief Wray was a fierce advocate for starting the program in Wheat Ridge after seeing the program’s success with his previous agency, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.
“The Blue Envelope Program also helps further our mission of Relationship-Based Policing, because it helps us identify if an individual needs a little extra time or patience to build that connection with,” Wray said.
The Wheat Ridge Police Department invites anyone from the community to come by the department’s lobby at 7500 W 29th Ave. and as the Records Team about the program. If you or a family member could benefit from the program, give it a try.
You will receive a blue envelope to put your registration and proof of insurance inside and are recommended to write down emergency contacts and conditions on the envelope. If you are pulled over, telling the officer “I have a Blue Envelope,” is a indicator for the officer to know the driver is dealing with something that may impact communication. People who participate will also receive an identifying item, like a pin, bumper sticker or seatbelt cover that is a visual cue for officers as well.
