Joliet police to recognize Autism Awareness Month with special patch

Joliet police officers plan to wear a specialized uniform patch throughout April in recognition of people with autism and their families.

The Joliet Police Department recognizes the challenges, stress and uncertainty “that individuals with autism and their families navigate on a daily basis,” Joliet police Sgt. Dwayne English said in a news release.

“It is our hope that this patch serves as a symbol of awareness, as well as a symbol of hope to our citizens that are affected by autism to any degree,” English said.

The latest estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that one in 44 children are affected by autism spectrum disorder, a developmental disability that causes a wide range of challenges in social interaction, communication and behavior, English said.

“Autism consists of a vast spectrum in which some need varying levels of support while others require near 24/7 care,” English said.