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Covering state lawmakers, bills, and policy emerging from Jefferson City.

Blue Alert System Goes Into Effect in Missouri

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Missouri’s Blue Alert System becomes operational today.  It was created through Senate Bill 34, signed by Governor Eric Greitens in July. 

A blue alert can be issued if a law enforcement officer is killed or seriously injured in the line of duty; an officer is missing in connection with official duties; there is imminent and credible threat to kill or seriously injure a law enforcement officer and there’s actionable information known about a suspect for a public notification to be helpful to law enforcement; and the law enforcement agency involved requests or approves the alert begin issued.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Blue Alert System is a cooperative effort that includes the Department of Public Safety, Missouri Department of Transportation, State Emergency Management Agency, the Highway Patrol, broadcasters and state law enforcement agencies to quickly get word out to the general public of an attack on a police officer or an imminent threat.

A Blue Alert will work similar to an AMBER Alert and use the same technology. Using television and radio broadcasts through the Emergency Alert System, text messaging, and MoDOT message boards, each Blue Alert will provide the public with a description of the offender, the offender’s vehicle, and license plate number, as available. 

Michele Skalicky has worked at KSMU since the station occupied the old white house at National and Grand. She enjoys working on both the announcing side and in news and has been the recipient of statewide and national awards for news reporting. She likes to tell stories that make a difference. Michele enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, camping and leisurely kayaking.