The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s “Safe Return” Program is a vital public safety initiative designed to assist law enforcement in safely returning home individuals with disabilities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Down syndrome, and other developmental or intellectual challenges. This voluntary, photo-based information system allows participants to register vital details about their loved ones, ensuring that law enforcement officers can access critical information during encounters with individuals who cannot communicate their personal details.
The Safe Return Program includes a confidential database accessible to law enforcement agencies across the county. This database contains detailed profiles of registered individuals, including behavioral considerations, medical conditions, special care instructions, physical descriptions, and photographs. Officers can quickly access this information from patrol cars or stations, allowing them to identify and assist lost individuals swiftly. This system is especially beneficial when individuals need help articulating their needs or providing contact information.
In addition to helping officers identify and assist individuals they encounter, the Safe Return Program also enables a proactive response if a registered person goes missing. Law enforcement can immediately access and distribute the individual’s photo and description, enhancing search efforts and minimizing response time. The program is designed to protect those at risk of wandering and becoming lost, ensuring their safe return to their families and caregivers. All information within the registry is kept strictly confidential, reflecting the program’s commitment to both public safety and the privacy of participants.
For more information, please visit https://wp.sbcounty.gov/sheriff/safe-return-program/