Man With Autism Visits Police Depts, Teaches Cops How To Interact With Those On Spectrum

A Pennsylvania man is on a mission to teach police department’s all over the country how to interact with people with autism.

21-year-old Alex Mann was diagnosed with autism when he was just three years old.

1 in 56 kids are being diagnosed with some type of autism, so Mann thinks it’s crucial to educate others in the proper way to communicate with them.

Mann has a soft spot for law enforcement, and wanted to get out there to show his support and use his ‘disability’ to show others that to him, it’s a major ability.

Since 2018, Mann has been traveling to multiple states including New Jersey, California and many in between, where he has met with more than 150 police departments.

During these lessons, Mann teaches police the signs of someone with autism, what can upset them, and how police can de-escalate situations.

He teaches them that people on the spectrum can grow very uncomfortable when they are near lights and loud noises, which may cause them to act out. They may also have curiosity for and reach for shiny objects.

Mann also explains that people with autism may not react to their name, and some may be afraid during encounters with police.

He also created a disability disclosure card to help assist in police encounters.

Richland Township Police Chief Richard Ficco is grateful for Mann’s efforts in educating police all over the country and believes learning about people with autism and their needs is invaluable.

Learn more about Mann’s incredible efforts in the video below: