About the Program

The Autism/Vulnerable Persons Registry (AVPR) is an East Lyme Police Department (ELPD) initiative in partnership with the community. This confidential registry promotes communication and gives police quick access to essential information about a registered person with autism and/or other disabilities who lives, works, or goes to school in our community. For those community members with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the registry can provide police with emergency contact information, detailed physical descriptions with photo, known routines, favorite attractions, likes/dislikes, communication techniques, and other information tailored to each individual to assist in interactions with law enforcement. The information voluntarily provided to ELPD will be used by officers in our response to calls for assistance that may include a missing person, a medical emergency, a crisis situation, or other interactions with our agency.

This initiative also affords the opportunity for seniors and other individuals with advanced medical needs and/or a diagnosed form of dementia (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease) to voluntarily provide crucial information to police. Confidential registry information provided to law enforcement could, for example, include serious medical conditions & history (e.g., seizures or diabetes), emergency contact information, and/or identify those at-risk during a power outage (e.g., prescribed oxygen therapy). For individuals with dementia, registry information could include location(s) that holds special interest to a missing individual, in which direction they tend to wander, a history of past interests or residences that may shine light on their behavior, whether or not they are verbal (and able to respond to questions), and/or a picture of the individual. Ultimately, the purpose of this initiative is to offer the vulnerable community a helpful service that not only enhances community safety, but also provides peace of mind to their families, friends, and caregivers.

How it Works

The voluntary registration can be completed by following the steps below, which includes filling out a form and including a current photograph of the person and submitting the requested documents. Once received, a member of ELPD will contact either the applicant or the first emergency contact to verify receipt of the registration. If we are unable to confirm with either the applicant or the first emergency contact, the information will not be entered. Upon verification, the information will be kept on file with ELPD. The information will then be provided to police personnel as needed in the performance of their duties. We encourage those registered to update us periodically as important information changes such as an address change, or a change in emergency contact information. We also ask if you can submit a new photo as the person registered ages.

How to Register

Click on the AUTISM/VULNERABLE PERSONS FORM link.

Fill out the electronic form with all the requested information.

Please be sure to:

  • Upload a recent photo of the person you are registering
  • Enter the email address for the person responsible for updating this information on an annual basis.

When your form is complete, click “Submit” at the bottom of the form.

Questions? Email: officer@EastLymePolice.org

If you need to speak to someone regarding this form, please contact the East Lyme Police Department
Autism/Vulnerable Persons Registry by phone at 860-739-5900.