In this captivating episode of The Iglu, your host, Peter, delves into a truly inspiring story that brings together the worlds of law enforcement and autism. Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of a retired police captain turned autism advocate who is on a mission to train law enforcement personnel about the unique challenges and opportunities surrounding individuals on the Autism spectrum.
Our guest for today's episode is Jerry Turning, a retired police captain whose life took an unexpected turn when his son was diagnosed with autism. Faced with the challenges of raising a child with special needs, Jerry embarked on a mission to educate himself and others about autism, ultimately leading him to become a passionate advocate for police training and inclusion.
During this deeply insightful conversation, Peter and Captain Jerry Turning explore the transformative power of empathy and understanding within law enforcement. Jerry shares anecdotes about his own personal journey, from the initial discovery of his son's diagnosis to the challenges his family faced in navigating a world often ill-equipped to accommodate those with autism.
Drawing on his extensive experience in law enforcement, Jerry reveals how his personal connection to autism spurred him to develop groundbreaking training programs for police officers. Together, they explore the essential role that police officers play in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals on the Autism spectrum and how training can empower them to better handle encounters and forge meaningful connections with the autism community.
Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Jerry, a retired police captain who found purpose in advocating for autism awareness and fostering a more inclusive society. Through his experiences and expertise, we learn how compassion, knowledge, and open-mindedness can bridge the gap between law enforcement and the autism community, fostering a safer and more understanding society for all.