Dear Representatives Buchanan and Barragan,
I am writing on behalf of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police to advise you of our support for H.R. 9119, the “Alzheimer’s Law Enforcement Education Act.” Alzheimer’s is a terrible disease that affects millions of Americans each day and puts a strain on families and loved ones who struggle to care for these individuals. Those with Alzheimer’s can become confused easily and are at increased risk of becoming lost. Unfortunately, half of those not located within 24 hours are found deceased.
It is important that our law enforcement officers receive proper training to recognize the signs of Alzheimer’s. Your legislation would create training programs through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), as well as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, to ensure that our officers are trained to recognize and interact with those suffering from Alzheimer’s. This would include the development of proper de-escalation tactics in preparation for their interactions, as well as recognizing the signs of elder abuse. These programs would be available for any law enforcement agency and allow our officers to work towards ending the needless suffering of those afflicted by this terrible disease.
On behalf of the more than 377,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, I thank you all for your leadership on this important issue. If I can provide any additional assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me or Executive Director Jim Pasco in our Washington, D.C. office.
Sincerely,
Patrick Yoes
National President