The National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) has heard about recent incidents in which people with Down syndrome were treated harshly and in an undignified way during interactions with law enforcement. These situations are deeply concerning and underscore the urgent need for disability-informed training, policies, and practices nationwide. People with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) have the right to be treated with dignity and respect and to be safe in their communities. Communication differences, anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or slower processing time must never be mistaken for noncompliance or escalation.
NDSC urges law enforcement agencies to adopt approaches grounded in understanding and de-escalation and to use plain language, allowing extra time for responses, reducing sensory stressors, and involving trusted supports when appropriate. We also encourage departments to seek out training and resources from the Ethan Saylor Alliance, which provides practical guidance to help prevent tragedies and improve outcomes when first responders interact with people with disabilities. Every interaction should be guided by safety, respect, and the presumption of humanity.
Read more from the Ethan Saylor Alliance > https://www.ethansayloralliance.org/
