May 1, 2025: Cumberland County District Attorney Seán M. McCormack, along with the Cumberland County Chiefs of Police, announced today the launching of a new law enforcement initiative: Cumberland County Autism, Special Needs, and Dementia Voluntary Registry.  

This groundbreaking initiative is designed to enhance law enforcement’s ability to identify, locate, and assist community members diagnosed with Autism, Dementia, and other special needs.  The voluntary registry allows families to provide critical information about their loved ones, ensuring law enforcement officers have immediate access to essential details in emergency situations. The cloud-based registry will include a photograph, personal information, medical conditions, communication preferences, triggers, calming strategies, and emergency contacts.

The registry is integrated with the Simple Tracking System App, developed by ESGI Solutions. This technology allows officers to take a photo of an individual and conduct an instant image comparison to identify potential matches. If the person is registered, officers will have real-time access to critical information to help reunite them with their families quickly and safely.

Additionally, the registry streamlines the process of entering missing persons into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database and assists in the development of media releases for public assistance in locating individuals who have wandered away. The efficiency gained through this system could mean the difference between a safe recovery and a tragic outcome.

Families who wish to register a loved one can do so voluntarily by submitting their information through the designated registration process. A QR code has been created for easy access to register a loved one. 

The inspiration for this initiative came from Sgt. Keith Stambaugh of the Silver Spring Township Police Department. Having successfully implemented a similar program in Silver Spring Township, Sgt. Stambaugh envisioned expanding it countywide to maximize its impact. His goal is to see the program grow even further, ultimately saving lives and increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of officers responding to incidents involving vulnerable populations.

“This registry is a game-changer for both law enforcement and families,” said Sgt. Stambaugh. “By providing officers with vital information ahead of time, we can improve interactions, reduce stress for individuals and their loved ones, and even decrease the need for use of force in certain situations.”

McCormack praised Sgt. Stambaugh and ESGI Solutions for their efforts. “It is such a simple idea. But even the simplest of ideas need people with vision and know-how to make that idea a reality.  Sgt. Stambaugh and ESGI Solutions brought what was just an idea into existence.  I believe this app will help a lot of people.” 

For more information on the Simple Tracking System, see https://simpletrackingsystem.com.