DES MOINES – Recent AMBER Alert activations within the state, as well as two, high-profile kidnapping and murder investigations has prompted a review of Iowa’s AMBER Alert criteria. In the last month, the AMBER Alert Criteria Group met, and as a result of their review made a minor change in verbiage to AMBER Alert Criteria #4.
The stricken language is shown below:
1. There is enough descriptive information about the child, abductor, and/or suspect’s vehicle to believe an immediate broadcast alert will help.
Additionally, the group suggested law enforcement and Department of Public Safety (DPS) officials interpret the criteria more broadly. The goal is to ensure the safe recovery of all of Iowa’s abducted children.
Finally, the meeting discussion identified an increased need for training of all Iowa law enforcement on the AMBER Alert criteria. It is critical that local agencies notify DPS quickly to increase the chances of a successfully recovering Iowa’s abducted children. Training opportunities will be identified in the near future.
The AMBER Alert Criteria Group is made up of representatives from the Iowa Sheriff’s & Deputies Association, Iowa Police Chief’s Association, Iowa State Police Association, County Attorney’s Association, Iowa Attorney General’s Office, US Attorney’s Office – Northern District, US Attorney’s Office – Southern District, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa Department of Transportation, and Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
