NCJ Number
99347
Date Published
1985
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This training pamphlet instructs police in recognizing, responding to, controlling, interrogating, and arresting mentally retarded persons.
Abstract
The pamphlet first reviews the likelihood that mentally retarded persons will have contact with police because such persons are often socially maladjusted. Brief guidance is then given for police response to mentally retarded persons in the following situations: aiding lost persons, aiding victims, responding to juvenile delinquency calls, responding to citizen complaints, and handling criminal offenders. After defining mental retardation, the pamphlet presents a checklist for recognizing mentally retarded persons by their physical appearance, educational level, and social maturity. This recognition becomes the basis for an appropriate police response. The vulnerability of mentally retarded persons to criminogenic influences from peers is discussed, followed by instruction in techniques for interrogating and arresting mentally retarded persons. Patience, clarity and repetition in communication, as well as protection of rights are emphasized. A discussion guide distinguishes between the characteristics of mental retardation and mental illness. Questions and answers based on the training material are provided.