FRANKLIN, Tenn. (WSMV) - The number of children in Tennessee diagnosed with autism has doubled over the past decade, prompting law enforcement leaders to launch specialized training programs to better serve families impacted by the condition.

The University of Tennessee Law Enforcement Innovation Center is hosting a groundbreaking conference next week, bringing together around 150 police officers and people with autism for an immersive training designed to improve community engagement.

“Bring everyone together – the science together, members of the community together and law enforcement – just really for a conversation about how we can better improve community engagement with law enforcement,” training specialist Jeff Hundley said

The program addresses the growing need for officers to

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