Dunn Urges Legislature to Create “Blue Alert” System

February 23, 2012

Summary

Alerting public of suspects in incidents regarding law enforcement officers

Story

Metropolitan King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn announced today he will introduce a motion urging the Council to support legislation before the Washington State Legislature creating a “Blue Alert” system for law enforcement officers.

“This tragic pattern of injury and death to law enforcement officers in Washington State simply cannot continue,” said Dunn. “We in government must do everything in our power to protect those who put their lives on the line everyday in order to protect us.”

If the legislature adopts HB 1820, Washington State would join at least seven other states that have created their own “Blue Alert” systems. Modeled after AMBER alerts, Blue alerts would use media resources to inform the public about crucial information regarding suspects who have seriously injured or killed law enforcement officers.

“I am grateful that Councilmember Dunn is again offering his support to law enforcement to help stop future tragedies,” said State Representative Mike Hope, prime sponsor of HB 1820. “King County’s support of HB 1820 will help pave the way for this important legislation to pass this year.”

In 2010, Dunn sponsored a Council motion urging the Legislature to pass the Lakewood Law Enforcement Memorial Act which placed on the ballot a constitutional amendment giving judges the ability to deny bail to those facing a life sentence. The constitutional amendment passed with 85 percent of the vote.

Dunn plans to have his motion introduced as part of Monday’s King County Council agenda, where Dunn will ask his colleagues on the Council for immediate action.

“Law enforcement officers dedicate their lives to the protection and service of others,” said Dunn. “It’s time for us to once again step up and support them.”