Protecting peace officers
Anthony Brown
Rep. Allen Andrews
Missouri will soon have a system in place to ensure law enforcement officials quickly receive the information they need to apprehend individuals who injure or kill peace officers. The governor recently signed into law a bill approved by the General Assembly that will create the Blue Alert System.
Similar to the Amber and Silver Alert systems, the Blue Alert system will send out identifying information such as a physical description of the suspect and the suspect’s vehicle. Twenty-seven states already have a similar system in place. Supporters say the new system will aid in the identification, location, and apprehension of any individual or individuals suspected of killing or seriously injuring a local, state, or federal law enforcement officer. The bill requires the Department of Public Safety to coordinate with local law enforcement agencies and public commercial television and radio broadcasters to effectively implement the system.
Other provisions in the bill increase penalties for assaulting law enforcement officers; creates the crime of illegal re-entry; and provides a fix to the state’s “Safe at Home” confidential address program to ensure victims of domestic violence are protected.
As always, it is an honor to represent you!
Allen Andrews, State Representative – District 1, Missouri State Capitol, Room 135AB, 201 West Capitol Avenue, Jefferson City, MO 65101
Telephone: (573) 751-9465
Allen Andrews is the First District State Representative.
