Autism training for law enforcement aims to prevent tragic outcomes - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
by Corinne PurtillFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies are undergoing specialized training designed to improve interactions with autistic individuals and prevent tragic outcomes. The training, led by Kate Movius of Autism Interaction Solutions, involves simulating sensory overwhelm through activities like wearing vision-distorting glasses, writing with the non-dominant hand, and enduring sudden noise and light changes. This approach aims to help deputies understand the challenges faced by autistic people during high-stress situations.
The rising prevalence of autism in the U.S., now estimated at 1 in 31 children, has made such training increasingly critical. Autistic individuals are more likely to be stopped by law enforcement due to behaviors that may be misinterpreted as suspicious or defiant. For example, intense focus, repetitive actions, or communication difficulties can escalate situations, leading to potential misunderstandings or harmful outcomes.
The need for this training is underscored by tragic incidents, such as the 2021 shooting of Isaias Cervantes, a deaf autistic man who was handcuffed and injured after deputies responded to a family call for help. These events highlight the importance of law enforcement being equipped with tools like noise-damping headphones, communication cards, and fidget toys to de-escalate encounters.
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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/24/2026