RNC/Autistic Man Incident Troubling Justice Minister

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http://www.vocm.com/news-info.asp?id=35675

RNC/Autistic Man Incident Troubling Justice Minister

April 22, 2009

Justice Minister Tom Marshall says he is " troubled " over an incident involving

the RNC and a young autistic man in the St. 's area. The 18 year old was

arrested on the weekend and allegedly spent hours in custody because RNC

officers pegged him as a " drunk man, resisting arrest. " The young man's mother

called VOCM Nightline saying too many people do not understand autism. Marshall

says the department views such incidents very seriously and they will take steps

to make sure something like this never happens again. Marshall says training

will start immediately. Marshall says the RNC have spoken with the parent on a

number of occasions since the alleged incident.

The Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador doesn't recall any such

incidents of this nature previously, and is disappointed in the officers'

reaction. Executive director Trish says police officers need more

training.