Texas is following Florida’s lead by launching a Blue Alert network – a technological program similar to the Amber Alert that will be used to help find suspects accused of killing or seriously hurting police officers, repors ts the Houston Chronicle. The technology will allow information about a wanted offender’s vehicle to be broadcast rapidly across the state on computerized traffic signs and in media alerts. Gov. Rick Perry called the technology a “powerful tool” that will mobilize the public to watch for offenders on the loose.
Statewide, seven law enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty this year, 20 were killed last year. The Blue Alert network will be activated only when a law enforcement officer is killed or seriously injured by an offender; if an agency determines that the offender poses a serious threat to the public or other officers; if a detailed description of the offender’s car or license plate is available for broadcast to the public; and when an agency issues a broadcast request.
Link: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/5951632.html