DOJ Launches Alert System Geared Towards Law Enforcement

On Friday, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the “National Blue Network,” a system designed to provide law enforcement officers with vital information during a threatening situation. The network is similar to the emergency alert system that’s on radio and television warning about severe weather. The alerts will let law enforcement and the public know about “imminent threats” against police officers.

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The “blue alerts” will be backed by the Federal Communications Commission, the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

“The men and women of law enforcement put their lives on the line to protect and serve the public,” Acting Associate Attorney General Jesse Panuccio said in a statement. “The Department of Justice is committed to supporting law enforcement, and the National Blue Alert Network will provide this country with the necessary framework for rapid response to help save lives and apprehend criminals who would attack those who bravely protect public safety.”

“It is impossible to measure the impact on our communities when an officer is killed in the line of duty,” ICE Acting Director Thomas Homan told the Washington Examiner. “It is a good day for law enforcement. It is even better for the American communities, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

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According to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, they are looking into giving state and local law enforcement the ability to use blue alerts on broadcast, cable, satellite and wireline video networks. They will also have the option to opt-in on cell phones.

As of now, 27 states have their own version of “blue alerts,” and will be used to help coordinate the framework for the national network.

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