TPD Expands “Approach with Care” Initiative Through Sensory Bag Build

October 15, 2026

The Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) is expanding its “Approach with Care” initiative by equipping officers and community service technicians with sensory bags designed to support safer, more effective interactions with individuals with autism and other sensory needs.

On Wednesday, Oct. 14, TPD members joined community partners to assemble sensory bags that will be given to every officer and community service technician to assist during encounters with individuals who may become overwhelmed by lights, sounds, unfamiliar environments or other sensory stimuli.

For Deputy Chief Jeff Mahoney, who helped spearhead the initiative and is the father of a young autistic son, the effort is about turning greater understanding into meaningful action.

“Understanding is important, but what we do with that understanding matters even more,” Deputy Chief Mahoney said. “From the beginning, Chief Revell has supported our efforts to make sure officers have the training and resources they need to better serve individuals with autism and their families. These bags are another tool that can help create a calmer, safer interaction for someone who may experience the world differently, and another step in our commitment to meeting people where they are.”

“For families of individuals with autism, knowing that first responders are taking steps to better understand and prepare for these interactions matters,” said Catherine Zenko with the FSU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. “This initiative brings together training, practical resources and community collaboration in a way that can help officers feel more prepared and families feel more supported.”

The sensory bag build marks the next phase of the “Approach with Care” initiative launched earlier this year. Building on these efforts, TPD will also provide in-person training to strengthen officers’ understanding of autism and equip them with strategies to communicate and respond more effectively.

Through Approach with Care, TPD is putting awareness into action, recognizing that even small adjustments in how officers communicate and respond can make a meaningful difference for individuals with autism and their families.

TPD also extends its appreciation to locally owned community partners Midtown Print and Whataburger for their support of the sensory bag build. Their generosity reflects the important role local businesses play in supporting initiatives that make a meaningful difference for individuals and families throughout our community.