By Kirk McCracken
Tulsa Police Chief Dennis Larsen announced the launch of a community initiative at a press conference Wednesday that will make police interactions with residents safer.
Several area law enforcement agencies are joining Tulsa Police for the “Blue Envelope Program” which helps with police interactions and individuals that experience communication challenges.
“We want officers to know, from the earliest point of contact, that there’s something they need to be aware of, so they slow down and they take the necessary steps to have clear communication,” Larsen said.
The program involves a blue envelope that explains an individual’s condition and affirms their intent to cooperate with police. The envelope should include a copy of a driver’s license, insurance, and registration. This is beneficial for people with disabilities or neurodevelopmental conditions.
Tulsa County Sheriff Vic Regalado reiterated the importance of the program.
“This is a life-saving program. I think it’s a program that is going to be around for many, many years if not forever,” Regalado said.
Tulsa city councilperson Lori Decter-Wright was also at the press conference and said this program will affect her family.
“This is an added layer of assurance that they can stay independent, go about their day, and if they do get pulled over by one of our finest officers around Tulsa County, we know this tool is there. So, it immediately changes the dynamic to have a different interaction,” she said.
Decter-Wright said she has children that are neurodivergent and they are currently learning to drive.
The blue envelopes will be available at all participating agencies. Tulsa, Bixby, Broken Arrow, Glenpool, Jenks, Owasso, Sand Springs, Skiatook, and Sapulpa are participating in the program.
