(Walworth County Sheriff’s Office press release) The Walworth County Sheriff’s Office has launched a new, innovative program to enhance communication between first responders and individuals with special needs such as autism, schizophrenia, dementia, hearing/vision impairments, or any disability that affects their communication. This is a part of our effort to ensure the safety of all Walworth County residents when they have interactions with law enforcement, fire, and EMS.

The Autism and Special Needs Registry is designed to assist police and fire departments during encounters with members of the community who have disabilities such as, but not limited to, dementia, Autism, Schizophrenia, or any other mental/developmental disorders.  The goal of this program is to give emergency personnel quick access to critical information about a registered individual with special needs in an emergency situation.  Walworth County will take all possible measure to assure this information is relayed to the proper personnel; however, completion of this form does not guarantee that this information will be readily accessible and shared with responding personnel.   

Residents of Walworth County that have friends or families with autism or other special
needs may go the Sheriff’s Office website www.co.walworth.wi.us/886/Autism-and-SpecialNeeds-Registry to electronically complete the form and submit it online. By clicking on the
link, an individual is able to provide addresses, emergency contact info and
other information for individuals with special needs. Information provided may include the
primary diagnosis/disability, certain conditions or behaviors the person has, as well as
suggestions on how to approach or communicate with that person. Photos of the individual
can also be downloaded through this form. This information will be entered into the
Records Management System through the Walworth County Sheriff’s Office
Communications Center, making it available to all Walworth County law enforcement and
first responders. Those first responders will be able to access this vital information in the
event of any emergency or call for service at the individual’s home. This will benefit
families and officers by reducing the possibility of misunderstandings or unnecessary stress
for children and adults with disabilities when they come in contact with first responders.

Participating in this registry is strictly voluntary. All questions in the form are confidential
and will only be used to improve the interaction between the listed person and public safety
first responders. You must live in Walworth County to participate in this program. (Banner note: we have attempted to confirm that those City of Whitewater residents who are in Jefferson County may also complete the form and have the information forwarded to the Whitewater Police Department. We have not been able to obtain a definite answer. Deputy Nelson indicates that he will be checking with Jefferson County to see if they have an interest in offering the service. Meanwhile, if this applies to your situation, you may wish to reach out to Deputy Nelson; alternatively you may fill out the form and later confirm with the Whitewater Police Department at 473-0555 that they have received the information.)

If you have any questions contact Deputy Dan Nelson at 262-903-9253 or via email at
dnelson@co.walworth.wi.us.