This 4-hour training will focus on identification of individuals at varied independence levels
- recognition & disclosure of autism spectrum disorder (ASD);
- communication tips;
- sensory and scene management tips;
- search and rescue of missing & vulnerable children and adults;
- development of vulnerable/voluntary informational data bases;
- suspicious persons contacts;
- persons in crisis emergencies with aggression;
- use of force/custody;
- interview of an autistic victim, witness, or suspect;
- threat assessment;
- partnership opportunities with autism support organizations & related training policies.
ABOUT THE SPEAKERS
Dennis Debbaudt is a globally recognized expert in autism and law enforcement interactions, with over 30 years of experience training professionals across public safety, criminal justice, education, and emergency response. As both a former investigative journalist and father to a son diagnosed with autism in 1987, Debbaudt brings a unique blend of personal insight and professional expertise to his work. His engaging and practical training sessions are tailored for law enforcement, 911 dispatchers, correctional officers, educators, and behavioral health professionals.
Debbaudt has consulted and trained agencies including the FBI, NYPD, Homeland Security’s FLETC, Chicago PD, Detroit PD, Houston PD, and departments throughout the U.S., Canada, UK, Australia, and beyond. His contributions include curriculum development for the NYPD, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Maryland Police Training Commission, as well as numerous publications such as Autism, Advocates, and Law Enforcement Professionals and a 2024 Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders study. He has been featured by HBO, ABC 20/20, The New York Times, People Magazine, and WIRED, and his work is widely respected for improving safety, awareness, and communication between law enforcement and autistic individuals.
James Marble is a 26-year law enforcement veteran, who has served in capacities from patrolman through Chief of Police, and has been a certified law enforcement instructor in Montana for 16 years. James has specialized in various disciplines of instruction including firearms, use of force, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) recognition, communication strategies, and de-escalation techniques. Along with completing Dennis Debbaudt’s Autism Risk and Safety Management Law Enforcement Instructor Course, James brings a unique combination of law enforcement and personal experience. James was diagnosed with ASD in 2020. James’s unique experience of a law enforcement professional and an adult with ASD allows for him to speak intelligently from both perspectives. James is dedicated to advocating for law enforcement, and people with ASD and their families, in order to bridge the gap between both communities.
