Amber Alerts
AMBER ALERT empowers law enforcement, the media and the public to combat abduction by sending out immediate, up-to-date information that aids in the child's safe recovery. Using radio, television, the internet, highway information signs, and even cell phone networks, AMBER ALERT gives the public the information needed to locate abducted children. In California, this project is coordinated by the California Highway Patrol.

AMBER ALERT Guidelines

  • AMBER ALERT may be activated only by law enforcement agencies.
  • AMBER ALERT is intended only for the most serious, time-critical child abduction cases.
  • AMBER ALERT is not intended for cases involving runaways or parental abduction, except in life-threatening situations.
  • Criteria for activating an AMBER ALERT

Law enforcement agencies ensure these conditions are met before activating an AMBER ALERT:

  • The investigating law enforcement agency confirms an abduction incident has occurred.
  • The victim is 17 years of age or younger, or has a proven mental or physical disability.
  • The victim is in imminent danger of serious injury or death.
  • There is information available that, if provided to the public, could assist in safe recovery.