We are pleased to announce that the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office is officially launching our Blue Envelope Program for the community in Chaffee County. The Blue Envelope program is a voluntary initiative that helps people with conditions like autism spectrum disorder, dementia, or seizure disorder communicate more effectively with law enforcement during traffic stops or other interactions. Participants use a blue envelope (and/or a blue envelope sticker) which can be a visible signal to officers that the individual may require additional patience and clear communication, or accommodations around lights and sirens. The envelope can also be used to store important documents like a driver’s license, registration, and insurance information.
When this envelope is presented to a law enforcement officer during an interaction the officer will know immediately that extra patience or specific communication methods may be needed. Officers will also know whom to get in touch with to assist people with dementia. Clear communication and understanding can help prevent misunderstandings and create a more positive outcome. Officers are instructed to recognize the blue envelope as a signal that the driver, or potentially a senior who is wandering, may have a condition that affects communication or behavior. This prompts the officer to use communication techniques such as speaking clearly, avoiding rush, and allowing extra time for the person to respond.
Community members can obtain a Blue Envelope and an associated sticker at the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office at 641 W. 3rd St., Salida, CO 81201, The Buena Vista Police Department Office, 28362 County Road 317, Buena Vista, CO 81211, or The Salida Police Department, 448 E. 1st St., Salida, CO 81201. During an interaction with law enforcement, community members can present the envelope to signal their participation in the program. While this program is designed to support positive interactions, please keep in mind that you are still responsible for following the law. Participation is voluntary, there is no registry component, and there is no cost to receive a Blue Envelope. Anyone with questions about the Blue Envelope Program can call the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office at 719-539-2814 and ask to speak with a member of the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office Co-Responder team.
“This was a program I was introduced to several months ago while we were in the beginning stages of trying to develop our Co-Responder program. When I investigated it, the program just made sense. This program is certain to create a safer and more positive interaction between someone suffering from a mental crisis (or medical disorder) and law enforcement. We encourage the community to participate if there is a need. Our Co-Response Case Manager, Will Devine, was instrumental in getting this program up and running. I am thankful for his hard work and the work of the rest of the Co-Response team making this a reality.” -Sheriff Andy Rohrich
