Navigating Police Encounters: A Guide for Individuals with FASD
If you have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), interacting with law enforcement can be challenging and stressful.
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Tips to help you stay safe and communicate effectively during a police encounter:
Stay Calm and Respectful
- Take deep breaths to remain as calm as possible
- Speak politely and avoid confrontational language or behavior
- Remember that staying calm can help de-escalate the situation
Disclose Your FASD Status
- Let the officer know that you have FASD as soon as possible
- Explain that you may need extra time to process information or questions
- Ask for accommodations if needed, like having a support person present
Communicate Clearly
- Speak slowly and clearly
- Use simple, concrete language
- If you don’t understand something, politely ask the officer to repeat or rephrase
Ask for Clarification
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure about what’s happening
- Request that instructions or rights be explained in simpler terms if needed
Know Your Rights
- Remember you have the right to remain silent
- You can politely decline to answer questions without a lawyer present
- Ask for a lawyer if you’re being arrested or questioned about a crime
Use Support Systems
- Request to call a trusted family member, friend, or support worker if possible
- Ask for an appropriate adult to be present during questioning if you’re a minor
Be Honest
- Tell the truth to the best of your ability
- If you’re not sure about something, it’s okay to say “I don’t know” or “I don’t remember”
Follow Instructions Carefully
- Listen closely to the officer’s instructions
- If you’re unsure about what to do, ask for clarification
- Comply with lawful orders to ensure your safety
Document the Encounter
- Try to remember details about the interaction
- Write down what happened as soon as you can afterwards
- If possible, get the officer’s name and badge number
Remember, your safety is the top priority. If you feel overwhelmed, it’s okay to tell the officer that you’re having difficulty understanding or processing the situation due to your FASD. Many officers are receiving training on how to interact with individuals with cognitive differences, so being upfront about your needs can lead to a better outcome. After any police encounter, reach out to your support network or FASD support services for help processing the experience and understanding any next steps you may need to take. Stay safe, know your rights, and don’t hesitate to advocate for your needs during law enforcement interactions.
TODAY’S NOTE: “My dad and I took a community safety police course together. I learned a lot and met officers in a helping way. It was fun to be with dad. – In Solidarity, Liz (1986-July 6, 2024)“
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