Exciting News from the Augusta Police Department!

Augusta Police Department Implements the Blue Envelope Program

Augusta, ME – The Augusta Police Department is pleased to announce the implementation of the Blue Envelope Program, a significant step towards enhancing community relations and ensuring safer interactions between law enforcement officers and individuals with disabilities or conditions requiring additional accommodations or awareness.

After receiving a constituent inquiry, the Augusta Police Department consulted with communities where it was currently being implemented, ultimately deciding to bring it to Augusta. We are pleased to share that the blue envelopes are now available at our front desk.

The Blue Envelope Program is designed to foster positive relationships between law enforcement professionals and community members who may have disabilities such as Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, dementia, anxiety, or other conditions. The initiative recognizes the potential anxiety and nervousness that can accompany police interactions and aims to provide tools to improve communication and understanding.

The program allows individuals to display the Blue Envelope logo or present a Blue Envelope during contact with law enforcement or community service personnel. The envelope helps identify whether the driver is verbal or nonverbal and provides essential guidance for both the individual and the officer.

For the driver, the front of envelope includes suggestions such as keeping hands on the steering wheel, understanding that a flashlight may be used, and expecting flashing lights and police radio sounds. The envelope can also hold important documents like identification, contact information, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.

For the officer, the backside of the envelope provides critical insights, noting that the driver may be anxious due to flashing lights, flashlights, and police radios. It also highlights potential behaviors like repetitive movements or unusual eye contact. The envelope suggests clear, simple communication and contains an emergency contact list for reaching out to relatives or others if needed. – (dsapmaine.org)

“We are committed to making Augusta a safer and more inclusive community for everyone,” said Chief Lully. “The Blue Envelope Program is an excellent tool that will help our officers better understand and accommodate individuals with disabilities, ultimately leading to more positive and effective interactions.”

The Augusta Police Department encourages community members, caregivers, and organizations to participate in the Blue Envelope Program. Together, we can ensure that everyone in our community feels safe, respected, and understood during their interactions with law enforcement.

For more information about Augusta’s Blue Envelope Program, please contact the Augusta Police Department – Patrol Division Commander Anthony Drouin at anthony.drouin@augustamaine.gov or 207-626-2370 ext. 3412.