Pocatello Police to host free community autism awareness training Nov. 14
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POCATELLO — Understanding autism and knowing how to respond during stressful situations can make a difference for individuals on the autism spectrum, their families and first responders.
The Pocatello Police Department invites the public to a free community autism awareness training on Saturday, Nov. 14, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Pocatello City Council Chambers at 911 North Seventh Avenue.
The two-hour training will focus on improving communication, understanding sensory needs, and helping families and first responders navigate potentially challenging encounters.
Participants will learn practical strategies for preparing for emergencies, what information to share when calling 911, and ways to reduce misunderstandings and de-escalate stressful situations.
Sherri Coronado, owner of Boise-based Double C Consulting, will lead the training, bringing more than 25 years of law enforcement experience and a background in educating first responders and community organizations about autism and other developmental disabilities.
A Boise State University graduate with a degree in criminal justice, Coronado draws on both her professional experience and her personal experience as the mother of a son with autism.
Pocatello Police Lt. Akilah Lacey said Coronado has been working regularly with the department to provide autism training to officers and has agreed to expand that education to the community.
“There’s a sector of the community who has autism, and we wanted to provide this event for people to learn more about the diagnosis and what to do when they have an encounter with someone with autism,” Lacey said.
The Pocatello training is open to families, caregivers, advocates and anyone interested in learning more about autism and creating safer, more supportive interactions throughout the community.
The event comes amid increased attention to interactions between law enforcement and individuals with developmental disabilities following the April 2025 police shooting of 17-year-old Victor Perez, who had autism and cerebral palsy. Perez died from his injuries after being shot by Pocatello police officers, prompting community discussions about disability awareness and de-escalation training.
RELATED: Victor Project hopes to be a catalyst for change after the death of Victor Perez
Other local law enforcement agencies have also taken steps to improve interactions with individuals with special needs.
In April, Bingham County law enforcement agencies highlighted a voluntary program allowing families to share information about loved ones with autism, developmental disabilities, or mental health challenges before an emergency occurs. The information helps responding officers better understand an individual’s needs, behaviors and communication challenges.
RELATED: Bingham County proclaims Autism Awareness Month; law enforcement takes lead
No registration is required, and everyone is welcome to attend.