When someone enrolls in the program, officers obtain their basic information, a current digital photograph, family emergency contact information, and other information that might help officers when encountering the individual. What may seem like a simple interaction with police could be a very traumatic situation for a person with special needs and confusing to officers. Officers may not understand why some individuals with special needs will not make eye contact with them, keep their fists clenched, or flap their hands. Flashing lights on an emergency vehicle, for example, might cause a person with special needs to become frightened and act out. Police often don’t know whether or not individuals they encounter have special needs because there aren’t any telltale physical signs. The program is a free, voluntary, and confidential database offered, managed, and maintained by Pasco Police for persons living within Pasco. The program is based on the Newport News, VA Police Department's Project Guardian.

Does someone in your home have special needs? The Pasco Police's Project Guardian is a program developed to help keep your loved one with special needs, including autism, safe.

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