Should police officers be re-trained for awareness around autism patients and patients of mental health? Should they just be more aware about young Black males in general?
Ryan Gainer, a teen with autism, was a cross-country runner who worked out his frustrations with six-mile runs and dreamed of becoming an engineer.
On a Saturday afternoon earlier this month, the 15-year-old became upset that his parents had demanded he complete his household chores before he would be allowed to play video games or listen to music on his computer, according to DeWitt Lacy, a civil rights attorney representing Ryan’s family.
One of the core symptoms of autism is difficulty with social interaction and communication. This can manifest in various ways, such as difficulty understanding social cues, trouble with verbal and nonverbal communication, and challenges with empathy and perspective-taking. As a result, individuals with autism may struggle to express their emotions and needs effectively, leading to frustration and potential outbursts. These outbursts can be misinterpreted as violent behavior, when in reality, they are a result of the individual’s difficulty with communication and emotional regulation.
We got the video on Youtube from KTLA 5 and noticed the reporter called the child a suspect. Ryan’s parents are the ones who placed the call to 911 and is heard telling the officers upon approach that he has a tool in hand as a weapon. Trigger warning for those who not want to watch the dash camera footage is applied. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OipRWSG2A64&t=1s
Sensory processing issues are also common in individuals with autism. This means that they may have heightened or reduced sensitivity to certain sensory stimuli, such as loud noises, bright lights, or physical touch. When these stimuli become overwhelming, it can trigger a fight or flight response, leading to behaviors that may appear violent. For example, a child with autism may cover their ears and scream when exposed to a loud noise, which can be mistaken for aggressive behavior.
It is crucial to understand that individuals with autism are not inherently violent. In fact, they are more likely to be victims of violence rather than perpetrators. The misconception of autism as violence can have damaging consequences, such as increased stigma, discrimination, and barriers to accessing support and services. Instead of perpetuating this harmful myth, it is important to educate ourselves and others about autism and its characteristics.
Many individuals with autism face discrimination and exclusion from society due to their differences. This can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, and anger, which may manifest in behaviors that are perceived as violent. However, it is important to recognize that these behaviors are a result of societal barriers and not inherent traits of autism.
When: Saturday, March 9, 2024, at approximately 4:48 p.m.
Who: deputies from the Apple Valley Police Department responded to an emergency 9-1-1 call at a residence in the
Where: 13400 block of Iroquois Road.
Why: Family reported to Sheriff’s Dispatch Ryan Gainer was actively assaulting family members and damaging property at the residence.
Aftermath of Police involvement: At approximately 4:54 p.m., the first deputy arrived at the residence and was confronted by Gainer, who was armed with an approximate five-foot-long garden tool, with a sharp bladed end. Without provocation, Gainer raised the bladed end of the tool and ran toward the deputy. The deputy retreated and Gainer chased the deputy in an attempt to assault him with the bladed end of the tool. A lethal force encounter occurred, and Gainer was struck by gunfire. Deputies quickly rendered medical aid to Gainer and continued until paramedics arrived. Gainer was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. Detectives with the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division responded and assumed the investigation.
The Change organization has put out information regarding police use of force and mental health. You can reach out to Change.org to start your petition today.
