What is A Blue Alert?

A blue alert is an emergency notification system set up by law enforcement that is activated when a suspect has been identified in a violent encounter in which a law enforcement officer has been killed, injured, or is missing. It is also used if law enforcement has credible information that an imminent and credible threat of violence exists against a law enforcement officer. These alerts are used to spread the word and ask for the public’s help in apprehending the suspect(s).

The History of Blue Alerts

The blue alert was first established in the United States in 2008, following the assassination of Colorado State Patrol officer, Jayson Vanderberg. Congress soon passed the Hunter Webb Act, a bill that provides for a nationwide system of blue alerts when a law enforcement officer’s life is threatened. Since then, similar blue alert systems have become operational in states across the US.

Recently, the President signed a bill that makes it a federal offense to interfere with a blue alert or intentionally mislead the public in an effort to disrupt a blue alert investigation. It also provides for enhanced punishments for offenders found guilty of this crime.

How Do Blue Alerts Work?

Once activated, the blue alert sends out an urgent message to law enforcement officers and the public, notifying them of the suspect, the crime they’ve committed, and providing a description of them and their vehicle. Generally, blue alert messages are sent out via email, text, and wireless emergency alerts. Depending on the state, they may also use digital signage and broadcast on television and radio.

Blue alerts are intended to help law enforcement spread the word quickly and ask for the public’s help in apprehending the suspect(s). If a person sees someone who matches the description of the suspect, they are asked to immediately call their local law enforcement agency.

Conclusion

Blue alerts are a useful tool for law enforcement to quickly spread the word and ask for the public’s help in apprehending suspects in serious crimes. The recent federal legislation makes it a federal crime to interfere with or mislead in a blue alert investigation, and increases the punishments for those found guilty of it. If you ever see a blue alert message on your phone, email, or other media platform, it is important that you follow the instructions and contact your local law enforcement if you have any useful information.