FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Cumberland County District Attorney Seán M. McCormack, along with the Cumberland County Chiefs of Police, will hold a press conference at the Camp Hill Borough Police Department (Prosser Hall) on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11 AM to announce the launching of a new law enforcement initiative: The Cumberland County Autism, Special Needs, and Dementia Voluntary Registry.

This groundbreaking initiative is designed to enhance law enforcement’s ability to identify, locate, and assist community members diagnosed with Autism, Dementia, and other special needs.  The voluntary registry allows families to provide critical information about their loved ones, ensuring law enforcement officers have immediate access to essential details in emergency situations. The cloud-based registry will include a photograph, personal information, medical conditions, communication preferences, triggers, calming strategies, and emergency contacts.

The registry is integrated with the Simple Tracking System App, developed by ESGI Solutions. This technology allows officers to take a photo of an individual and conduct an instant image comparison to identify potential matches. If the person is registered, officers will have real-time access to critical information to help reunite them with their families quickly and safely.

Additionally, the registry streamlines the process of entering missing persons into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database and assists in the development of media releases for public assistance in locating individuals who have wandered away. The efficiency gained through this system could mean the difference between a safe recovery and a tragic outcome.

The inspiration for this initiative came from Sgt. Keith Stambaugh of the Silver Spring Township Police Department. Having successfully implemented a similar program in Silver Spring Township, Sgt. Stambaugh envisioned expanding it countywide to maximize its impact. His goal is to see the program grow even further, ultimately saving lives and increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of officers responding to incidents involving vulnerable populations.

“This registry is a game-changer for both law enforcement and families,” said Sgt. Stambaugh. “By providing officers with vital information ahead of time, we can improve interactions, reduce stress for individuals and their loved ones, and even decrease the need for use of force in certain situations.”

More information concerning this registry and how people can sign up for it will be discussed at the May 1, 2025, press conference.