West NY News

The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office has unveiled a new program to aid deputies in handling situations with individuals with special needs more safely and effectively. Sheriff James B. Quattrone introduced the program, called “Friends of the Sheriff,” at a news conference in Mayville, New York.

“This initiative is about building trust and promoting safety,” said Sheriff Quattrone, emphasizing the importance of equipping deputies with tools to understand individuals before they arrive on a scene. He mentioned that this can help reduce anxiety and prevent escalation, ensuring interactions between law enforcement and the community are both safe and respectful.

The "Friends of the Sheriff" program encourages caregivers to voluntarily submit important information about individuals with special needs, such as sensory sensitivities or calming techniques. This data is securely entered into the Sheriff’s Office computer-aided dispatch system, sending alerts to responding deputies.

The Sheriff’s Office has introduced a special 4”x4” decal as part of the program, issued after caregivers submit a form. Up to three decals per household can be placed on vehicles, doors, or mailboxes to discreetly notify first responders of the presence of an individual with special needs.

Individuals can participate in the program by filling out a form either at the Sheriff’s Office or online through the Sheriff’s Office website and mobile app. Forms include details like the individual’s name, address, special needs, and vehicle information. Once submitted, decals can be mailed, picked up, or delivered, depending on the resident's choice.

Alongside the "Friends of the Sheriff" initiative, the office is also supporting the statewide Blue Envelope Program, which offers special needs drivers envelopes to organize vehicle and personal information for easy access during traffic stops.

Sheriff Quattrone stated, “Our hope is that this two-part system—a visible alert and a data-driven preparation—helps us approach each situation with compassion and understanding.”

For more details about the “Friends of the Sheriff” program, interested individuals are encouraged to contact the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office at (716) 753-4900 or visit sheriff.us.