The Lehi Police Department has announced a new program that lets families register loved ones who have autism, developmental disabilities or dementia so officers and firefighters know what they're responding to before they arrive.

The department unveiled the Inclusive Community Service Unit at its annual National Night Out event Aug. 4 at Wines Park. Registration has not yet opened but will be available online through the Lehi Police website and via paper forms at the department, according to Lehi Free Press.

"This will make us aware of what we may be responding to and hopefully prevent a dangerous misunderstanding," Officer Martin told attendees at the event, as reported by Lehi Free Press.

The registry allows families to share details about behaviors, special needs and emergency alerts with both police and fire personnel. Officer Ho, who also presented the program at National Night Out, said the information helps officers distinguish between someone with a mental health condition and someone under the influence of drugs, allowing them to adjust tactics and reduce sensory triggers.

The program builds on existing training. The department's 2025 annual report documents officers participating in autism awareness training, a practice documented in annual reports since at least 2020.

As of Aug. 13, the registration page on the city's website was not yet live. Residents can check lehi-ut.gov/departments/lehi-police for updates.

Motor Unit targets speeding, DUI enforcement

National Night Out also spotlighted the department's two-officer Motor Unit, which uses motorcycles for traffic enforcement. Officer Donley told attendees that speeding is a primary collision factor across Lehi and that the motorcycles help officers position themselves to observe potentially impaired drivers.

The numbers back that focus. Lehi PD recorded 131 DUI arrests in 2025, up from 115 in 2024 and 101 in 2023, according to the department's annual report. Total traffic accidents reached 2,664 last year, including two fatal crashes and 380 injury collisions.

Chief Paul emphasizes community ties

Lehi Police Chief Darren Paul framed the event as central to the department's approach.

"My favorite thing about Lehi and Lehi Police is the relationships we have developed within the community and the way that the community supports us in our efforts to serve them," Paul said at the Aug. 4 gathering. "A lot of this has been achieved through National Night Out events."

The free event at Wines Park, 600 N 100 E, also featured a K9 demonstration, booths covering the Special Victims Unit and the online task force that investigates predators, and a 911 education station for children. The department handled more than 44,000 calls for service in 2025 with 72 sworn officers.

Residents who want to register a family member for the Inclusive Community Service Unit can watch for the program's launch at lehi-ut.gov or contact the Lehi Police Department at 385-201-1005.