Law enforcement officers from across the Volunteer State will gather in Franklin to undergo autism response training. The Effective Policing: Autism Response Conference is designed to enhance first responders’ ability to serve and protect individuals on the autism spectrum.
“The immersive training event will provide first responders with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to better recognize, communicate with, and safely de-escalate encounters involving community members with autism,” the University of Tennessee’s Law Enforcement Innovation Center (LEIC) Institute for Public Service said.
Tanner Smith, a star from the Netflix series Love on the Spectrum, will be the keynote speaker at the event. Smith will be sharing his personal experiences and insights with attendees. The training will feature interactive sessions, scenario-based exercises, and expert-led discussions to improve response outcomes and community relationships.
“This training is about more than policy and procedure; it’s about building understanding,” said Jeff Hundley, a training specialist with the University of Tennessee’s LEIC. “By equipping officers with practical skills and real-world perspective, we’re helping bridge the communication gap and strengthen trust between law enforcement and the autism community.”
