We have recently added a new section to Policing and Parkinson’s Disease: Encounters, Training, and the Need for Awareness. This section invites individuals nationwide to submit media articles, television coverage, and emerging research to help build a centralized database on this critical topic. By increasing visibility and knowledge, we aim to promote safety within communities and strengthen partnerships among law enforcement, individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and their families. Policing and Parkinson’s Disease: Encounters, Training, and the Need for Awareness.
Media Coverage, Articles & News Updates
Following the book’s publication, continued media coverage, news reporting, and emerging research have contributed to increasing need for public awareness across the country.
*** If you see a news story or article, add to the research & please email togetherforsharon@gmail.com
Scholarly / Peer-Reviewed Research
Irvine, R. E., et al. (2025). Parkinson’s disease and routine traffic stops: An exploration of patient experiences and perceptions. Journal of Parkinson’s Disease. https://doi.org/10.1177/1877718X251356514
- (Study shows individuals with Parkinson’s report higher rates of perceived mistreatment and misidentification during police stops) (PubMed)
Media & News Coverage
Edinger, M. (2026, April 2). Man with Parkinson’s disease allegedly injured during arrest at family’s home in Orange City. FOX 35 Orlando. https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/man-parkinsons-disease-allegedly-injured-during-arrest-familys-home-orange-city
Henry, M. (2020, September 11). Researcher studying health effects of World Trade Center dust on 9/11 first responders. Police1. https://www.police1.com/treatment/articles/researcher-studying-health-effects-of-world-trade-center-dust-on-911-first-responders-cghhni26JTqhIdud/
- (Discusses links between law enforcement exposure and neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson’s) (Police1)
Koenig, A. (2026, January 5). Study finds police officers face higher long-term health risks. MedicalXpress. https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-01-police-officers-higher-term-health.html
- (Highlights occupational health risks among officers, relevant to neurological conditions research) (Medical Xpress)
Professional / Policy Commentary & Practice-Based Sources
Ackerman, G. (2025, December 11). Why police need Parkinson’s disease training. KevinMD. https://kevinmd.com/2025/12/why-police-need-parkinsons-disease-training.html
- (Discusses lack of police training and increasing encounters with Parkinson’s patients) (KevinMD.com)
Ackerman, G. (n.d.). Policing and Parkinson’s disease: Encounters, training, and the need for awareness. Together for Sharon. https://togetherforsharon.com/policing-and-parkinsons-disease-encounters-training-and-the-need-for-awareness/
- (Explores misinterpretation of symptoms and need for policy reform in policing) (Together For Sharon)
