Blue Alert
The Ohio Blue Alert was established to enlist the public’s help in locating a suspect involved in killing or seriously injuring a law enforcement officer, or in locating a missing law enforcement officer.
Broadcasters’ Response
This alert is issued via social media, email, text message or fax. The EAS and WEA are NOT activated. Updates and cancellations are also delivered via social media, email, text message or fax. Notification about an Ohio Blue Alert is sent statewide to all who request to receive these alerts.
Additional information about the alert, including photos if available, is posted online. A special toll-free number (1.877.262.3764) may also be activated for tips and alert information.
Participating stations are encouraged to air alerts originating in their broadcast area. The public should be reminded NOT to approach a dangerous suspect.
The OAB has developed a poster with information about each alert for stations to use for quick reference. Contact the OAB’s Christine Merritt at 614.228.4052 for a print version of the poster.
Criteria (Established in Ohio Revised Code)
- Local law enforcement agency confirms a law enforcement officer has been seriously injured or killed and a suspect has not been apprehended; OR a law enforcement officer is missing while on duty under circumstances warranting concern for his/her safety; and,
- Sufficient descriptive information about the suspect and the circumstances surrounding the law enforcement officer’s injury, death or disappearance exists to indicate that activation of the alert may help locate the suspect or the missing officer.