Redmond Police Renews Autism Certification

The Redmond Police Department renewed its Certified Autism Center designation, extending training focused on autistic and sensory-sensitive residents. The move builds on the department’s 2022 certification and its 2024 Take Me Home registry for people who may become missing or disoriented.

Why it matters: - The renewal keeps Redmond police trained to respond more safely and effectively to autistic and sensory-sensitive community members. - The certification is part of a broader shift toward policing that prioritizes trust, communication and crisis response for families with neurodivergent loved ones.

What happened: - The Redmond Police Department renewed its Certified Autism Center™ designation on July 6, 2026. - The department first earned the certification in 2022, becoming the first law enforcement agency in Washington to do so. - IBCCES awarded the certification and handles the training and renewal process. - At least 80% of community-facing department staff completed training to qualify for renewal.

The details: - The training covers best practices for communicating with, supporting and assisting autistic and sensory-sensitive community members. - Chief Darrell Lowe said the renewal and programs like Take Me Home are meant to help every Redmond resident feel seen and protected by the police department. - The Take Me Home registry launched in 2024. - Take Me Home is a voluntary registry for families of people with autism, Down syndrome, dementia or Alzheimer's. - The registry is designed to help first responders make contact safely, calmly and with care when someone goes missing or becomes disoriented. - IBCCES said its law enforcement autism training can increase staff confidence, create a foundation of excellence and strengthen a department’s standing in the community. - IBCCES board chairman Myron Pincomb said the renewal reflects the department’s commitment to trust and meaningful connections. - Redmond police is featured on the free IBCCES Accessibility App. - The app offers real-time guidance on certified destinations, sensory-friendly spaces and tailored recommendations for people with disabilities. - IBCCES also operates AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com, which list certified locations and professionals.

Between the lines: - The renewal signals that Redmond police is trying to move beyond a traditional enforcement role and toward a community-partner model. - For public safety agencies, autism-specific training can reduce confusion during emergencies and improve outcomes for families. - IBCCES is using certification programs and companion tools to build a wider accessibility network across public safety, travel and other sectors.

What's next: - Redmond police will need to maintain training standards to keep the certification current. - The department is likely to continue expanding programs aimed at accessibility and safer interactions for vulnerable residents. - IBCCES will keep promoting its certification, accessibility app and directory tools as part of its broader inclusion strategy.