Autism Caregiver Group to host safety event Feb. 24 to encourage safe interactions with police

DeKalb Police Commander Steve Lekkas talks Friday at the department about the training the officers have received on the subject of determining whether there is probable cause to detain a driver who may be impaired after using marijuana. — DeKalb Police Cmdr. Steve Lekkas will participate in a safety event on Feb. 24 hosted by the Northern Illinois University Autism Caregiver Group.

February 17, 2022 at 4:00 pm CST

DeKALB - The Northern Illinois University Autism Caregiver Group will host what organizers are calling a fun safety event at the DeKalb Police Department to encourage positive interactions with police officers.

The event will take place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, at the police department, 700 W. Lincoln Highway.

DeKalb school resource officers, social workers and DeKalb Police Cmdr. Steve Lekkas will teach families about how children who have autism might interact with police officers at school, home or in the community.

Northern Illinois University undergraduate student volunteers also will be there to help provide child-friendly activities. Families can take a tour of the police station and meet with officers.

The presentation will be in English and Spanish language supports will be available. RSVP by Feb. 23 to Alison Gladfelter at agladfelter@niu.edu.