On July 31, 2025, Inland Regional Center (IRC) hosted the “Bridging the Gap: Law Enforcement and the Autism/IDD Community Summit” in San Bernadino.
The event brought together law enforcement agencies, and members of multiple communities, with two goals: to build understanding and strengthen collaboration.
Representatives from 18 local law enforcement agencies attended, including participants from as far away as Indio and Barstow.
The summit focused on practical initiatives, open discussions, and gathering ideas to improve officer trainings. Attendees also took part in interactive case study discussions with members of the IDD community and a virtual simulation experience exploring real-world scenarios.
Key recommendations from the summit included:
- Using shorter, more concise training formats
- Strengthening community policing efforts
- Expand collaborative outreach initiatives
- Creating a multi-disciplinary committee to keep the dialogue going and promote new approaches that build trust and inclusivity
Other highlights included an officer panel on inclusive programs, such as the Blue Envelope initiative and Safe Return protocols.
The summit was held in partnership with the Autism Society Inland Empire and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and was made possible with funding from the Department’s Language Access and Cultural Competency initiative.