FORT MYERS
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has launched a new alert system to help find missing adults with mental, cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities who do not meet the criteria for a nationwide Silver Alert.
The Purple Alert plan was created by the Florida Legislature and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, according to a press release from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
The criteria for a purple alert are as follows:
- The person is 18 years of age or older and is not eligible for a state or local silver alert.
- The person has an intellectual disability or developmental disability, traumatic brain injury, or other physical, mental, or emotional impairment that is not related to substance abuse, and has no Alzheimer’s disease or dementia-related disorders.
- An investigation by local law enforcement concluded that the disappearance posed a real threat of imminent danger or grievous bodily harm to the missing person, and they could be returned to safety only through law enforcement intervention.
- There is a detailed description of the missing, suitable for distribution.
- The missing person’s information was entered into the Florida Crime Information Center (FCIC).
- The law enforcement agency recommends activation.
After the warning is issued, it will reach citizens who have subscribed to receive warnings. They will also be displayed on highway message signs when applicable, according to the news release.
Notices will also be posted on the FDLE public website.
To receive Florida Purple alerts via email or text, sign up FDLE website.
