BELTON, Texas — The Belton Police Department is launching the Take Me Home Program, a nationwide initiative aimed at helping individuals who need special assistance return home safely after getting lost.
The Belton Police Department began exploring the Take Me Home Program in March 2024 after searching for Rogelio Arias, an elderly man who wandered away from home and was found deceased in a remote area two weeks later. This tragedy prompted the department to find ways to assist people and families in similar situations.
The program is designed for individuals who may need additional aid, including those with dementia, autism, or specific mental health needs. It is free to register someone in the program, and all data is kept confidential, accessible only to first responders.
The program creates a local database with photos and personal information to aid police officers in locating individuals who have wandered away from home.
“We hope this program changes lives,” Belton Police Chief Larry Berg said. “It strengthens our ability as police officers to protect and serve with compassion, and ensures that every person, regardless of age or ability, feels safe and supported in our city.”
To register a loved one for the Take Me Home Program, visit Take Me Home website.