FDLE launches Florida Purple Alert Plan

FLORIDA – The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has launched the Florida Purple Alert Plan.

According to the FDLE, the Purple Alert is being used to assist in the location of missing adults suffering from mental, cognitive, intellectual, or developmental disabilities, and who do not meet the criteria for a statewide Silver Alert.  Purple Alerts engage the public in the search for the missing person and provide a standardized and coordinated community response.

“In all missing persons situations, getting the word out – and getting it out quickly – is key to a swift and safe recovery,” saidFDLE Acting Commissioner Mark Glass.

“Florida’s Purple Alert plan ensures a prompt and comprehensive response while ensuring the privacy and dignity of our disabled citizens.”

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Purple Alert criteria, according to the FDLE:

• The person is 18 or older and does not qualify for a state- or local-level Silver Alert.
• The person has an intellectual or developmental disability, brain injury, or another physical, mental or emotional disability that is not related to substance abuse and does not have Alzheimer’s disease or a dementia-related disorder.
• The local law enforcement agency’s investigation concluded the disappearance poses a credible threat of immediate danger or serious bodily harm to the missing person and they can only be returned to safety through law enforcement intervention.
• There is a detailed description of the missing person suitable for distribution.
• The missing person information has been entered into Florida Crime Information Center (FCIC).
• The law enforcement agency of jurisdiction recommends activation.

When issued, Purple Alert information will be distributed to citizens who have signed up to receive the alerts and displayed on dynamic highway message signs when applicable.  The alerts will also be posted on the FDLE public website, the FDLE said in a statement.

According to the FDLE, citizens play an important role in saving lives.  When receiving a Purple Alert, they should make note of the alert and call 911 if they have information relating to the whereabouts of the missing person.

Sign up to receive Florida Purple Alerts today through email or text messages at http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/PurpleAlerts/Purple-Alert-Plan.aspx.