MAYVILLE, N.Y. — The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the launch of a new initiative designed to help deputies more safely and effectively respond to calls involving individuals with special needs.
Sheriff James B. Quattrone introduced the program, titled “Friends of the Sheriff,” during a news conference Wednesday in Mayville, New York.
“This initiative is about building trust and promoting safety,” said Sheriff Quattrone. “By giving our deputies tools to better understand individuals with special needs before arriving on a scene, we can reduce anxiety and prevent situations from escalating. We want every interaction between law enforcement and the community to be as safe and respectful as possible.”
The “Friends of the Sheriff” program invites caregivers to voluntarily share key information about individuals in their household with special needs—such as sensory sensitivities, triggers, or calming techniques. This information is securely entered into the Sheriff’s Office computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system and flagged to alert responding deputies.
To visually support this program, the Sheriff’s Office has created a distinctive 4”x4” decal, which will be provided—up to three per household—only after a form is submitted. These decals can be placed on the rear driver-side window of a vehicle, front door, or mailbox to discreetly notify first responders that someone in the home or vehicle may have special needs.
(Kerri Smith and her son Garrett, who has autism, join Sheriff James B. Quattrone during the announcement of the “Friends of the Sheriff” program—a new initiative aimed at enhancing safety and communication between law enforcement and individuals with special needs.)
Residents can currently participate by filling out a physical form at the Sheriff’s Office, providing information such as the individual’s name, address, special needs, sensory issues, and vehicle details. A a digital form will also be available via the Sheriff’s Office website and mobile app, allowing for easier access and submission.
Once a form is received, decals will be distributed by mail, picked up at the Sheriff’s Office, or delivered by patrol—based on the resident’s preference. Information collected will be securely stored and accessible to dispatch and law enforcement for future calls to the location.
This initiative is being implemented in tandem with the statewide Blue Envelope Program of the New York State Sheriffs’ Association. Blue Envelopes are provided to drivers with special needs to keep important vehicle and personal information, and should be handed to officers during traffic stops or roadside interactions.
“Our hope is that this two-part system—a visible alert and a data-driven preparation—helps us approach each situation with compassion and understanding,” said Sheriff Quattrone. “This program is an invitation to partner with us in creating safer outcomes for everyone.”
For more information about the “Friends of the Sheriff” program or to request a form, please contact the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office at (716) 753-4900 or visit sheriff.us.
