DOWNEY - The Downey Police Department has launched a "Return Home Registry," an opt-in program that will help detectives find lost family members who may wander off because of a mental condition or disease.Residents or caregivers who enroll in the program will be asked to provide personal information about the person they're caring for, including a physical description and photographs, which will be inputted into a searchable database. When a person enrolled in the program goes missing, police officers can use the database to gather important information. Police officers can also use the registry when they encounter people who appear lost or confused. The program is free. Relatives and caregivers can enroll persons who suffer from Alzheimer's, autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome or other debilitating diseases. Children with special needs are also eligible. The registry is not for people who voluntarily run away from home or have behavioral issues not related to a special need. To register for the program, or for more information, call Jane Guzman at (562) 904-2374. An online registration form is at downeypd.org under the "Neighborhood Watch" tab.

********** Published: July 26, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 15