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Autistic Man's Death Spurs Call for Better Police Training
10 Apr
Summary
- Autistic man Alex LaMorie died after being shot by police.
- LaMorie was a victim of an extortion scam prior to the shooting.
- Ten organizations urge improved police training and community partnerships.
Following the fatal police shooting of Alex LaMorie, an autistic man, in Howard County, a coalition of ten autism and developmental disabilities organizations has issued a joint statement. They are calling for improved police training and stronger community partnerships to prevent similar tragedies.
LaMorie's death, which occurred over a month ago, has cast a spotlight on the challenges faced by vulnerable populations. Police revealed that LaMorie was targeted by an extortion scam, a situation that advocates note is more prevalent in communities with autism due to social challenges.
These scams can escalate into crises, highlighting the critical need for accessible support, preventive education, and responsive crisis systems. Organizations like the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) of Howard County stress the importance of awareness, as individuals may not readily identify scams.
Howard County Police leadership has committed to enhancing mental health call training and investing in non-lethal options. However, they acknowledge that even advanced training cannot always avert tragedy. The Office of the Attorney General is continuing its investigation into the police shooting, while police investigate the extortion scam.
