What is a Purple Alert in Florida? When your phone buzzes with an alert, you might be familiar with Amber Alerts for missing children or Silver Alerts for seniors with cognitive impairments. But have you ever received a Purple Alert? If you’re in Florida, this relatively new addition to the state’s emergency alert system might have caught your attention. Introduced in July 2022, the Florida Purple Alert is a critical tool designed to help locate missing adults with specific mental, cognitive, or developmental disabilities. Let’s dive into what a Purple Alert is, why it was created, how it works, and why it’s so important for communities across the Sunshine State.
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The Purpose of the Purple Alert
The Florida Purple Alert is part of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s (FDLE) emergency alert system, aimed at assisting in the recovery of missing adults who are particularly vulnerable due to certain disabilities. Specifically, it targets individuals aged 18 or older who have a mental or cognitive disability, intellectual or developmental disability, brain injury, or other physical, mental, or emotional disabilities that are not related to Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or substance abuse. The key is that their disappearance must pose a credible threat of immediate danger or serious bodily harm, and they can only be safely returned through law enforcement intervention.
Unlike Silver Alerts, which focus on seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia-related disorders, or Amber Alerts, which are for abducted children, Purple Alerts fill a gap for adults who don’t fit those categories but are still at significant risk. This system ensures that vulnerable individuals, such as those with autism or brain injuries, receive the urgent attention needed to bring them home safely.
The Origin Story: A Tragic Inspiration
The Purple Alert system was born out of a heartbreaking incident. In 2018, Joshua Marshall, a 30-year-old non-verbal autistic man from Port St. Lucie, wandered away from his home. Despite being spotted at a local 7-Eleven, no one recognized him as a missing person in need of help. Tragically, Joshua was later found deceased in a pond. His death spurred his family and advocates to push for a new alert system to prevent similar outcomes. Florida Senator Lori Berman and Representative Joseph Casello, both Democrats from Boynton Beach, championed the cause, and Governor Ron DeSantis signed the Purple Alert legislation into law in 2021, with the program officially launching on July 1, 2022.
This initiative reflects a commitment to protecting Florida’s disabled citizens while maintaining their dignity and privacy. As FDLE Acting Commissioner Mark Glass stated, “In all missing persons situations, getting the word out – and getting it out quickly – is key to a swift and safe recovery.”
How Does a Purple Alert Work?
When someone goes missing and meets the criteria for a Purple Alert, the process is highly coordinated. Here’s how it unfolds:
- Reporting to Local Law Enforcement: If a loved one goes missing, you should immediately contact your local police department or sheriff’s office. They’ll take a report and determine if the case qualifies for a Purple Alert based on the individual’s condition and the circumstances of their disappearance.
- Criteria Verification: The missing person must be 18 or older, have a qualifying disability (not Alzheimer’s or dementia), and their disappearance must pose an immediate threat. A detailed description of the person, and sometimes their vehicle, is required for distribution.
- FDLE Involvement: If the criteria are met, the local law enforcement agency enters the missing person’s information into the Florida Crime Information Center (FCIC) and contacts the FDLE’s Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse (MEPIC) at 1-888-356-4774. Only law enforcement can request a Purple Alert.
- Public Notification: Once activated, the alert is broadcast through multiple channels, including text messages, emails, radio, TV, and dynamic highway message signs managed by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). If a vehicle is involved, these signs may display details like the license plate for up to six hours. Alerts also appear on lottery terminals in gas stations, convenience stores, and supermarkets.
- Community Action: The public plays a vital role. If you receive a Purple Alert, note the description of the missing person and any vehicle details. If you spot them, call 911 or *FHP (347) immediately with information about their whereabouts, direction of travel, or vehicle details.
Changes in 2024: Local vs. Statewide Alerts
In 2024, Florida refined the Purple Alert system with House Bill 937, effective July 1, introducing a two-tier approach. Local law enforcement now handles alerts for missing individuals on foot or in unidentified vehicles, notifying local media and personnel. If a vehicle is identified, agencies can request a statewide alert, triggering highway signs and broader notifications. This change ensures more targeted responses while still allowing statewide action when needed.
Why Purple Alerts Matter
Since its launch, the Purple Alert system has helped recover over 250 missing individuals, demonstrating its effectiveness. By engaging the public, media, and law enforcement in a coordinated effort, the system maximizes the chances of a safe recovery. For families, it offers hope and a structured response during a terrifying time. For communities, it’s a call to stay vigilant and compassionate, ensuring no one is left behind.
How You Can Help
You can sign up for Purple Alerts (along with Amber, Silver, and Blue Alerts) through the FDLE’s Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse website. By receiving these alerts directly to your phone or email, you can stay informed and ready to act if you spot a missing person. Every second counts, and your alertness could save a life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What disabilities qualify for a Purple Alert?
A Purple Alert applies to adults with mental, cognitive, intellectual, or developmental disabilities, such as autism or brain injuries, but not Alzheimer’s, dementia, or substance abuse-related conditions. The disappearance must pose a credible threat of harm. - How is a Purple Alert different from a Silver Alert?
Silver Alerts are for seniors (60+) with Alzheimer’s or dementia, or younger adults who lack the capacity to consent due to cognitive impairment. Purple Alerts cover adults 18+ with other disabilities, like autism or brain injuries, not related to dementia. - Can anyone request a Purple Alert?
No, only law enforcement agencies can request a Purple Alert after verifying the case meets the criteria. If someone is missing, contact your local police or sheriff’s office first. - How long does a Purple Alert stay active?
A Purple Alert typically remains active until the missing person is found. If a vehicle is involved, highway signs display the alert for up to six hours. - How can I sign up for Purple Alerts?
You can subscribe to receive Purple Alerts via text or email through the FDLE’s Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse website. It’s free and helps you stay informed.
Conclusion
The Florida Purple Alert is a lifeline for vulnerable adults and their families, ensuring that those who need urgent help are not overlooked. By understanding how it works and signing up for alerts, you can play a part in bringing someone home safely. The next time your phone buzzes with a Purple Alert, take a moment to read it—you might just make a difference.