(A) The "Blue Alert Program" is established within the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). The purpose of the program is to assist law enforcement in the apprehension of a suspect who allegedly kills, seriously injures, or abducts a law enforcement officer by rapidly disseminating information regarding the suspect, and to reduce the suspect's ability to flee thereby posing a serious threat to the safety of others.

(B) SLED shall adopt guidelines and establish procedures for issuing a blue alert, including the rapid dissemination of information regarding a suspect through the use of the South Carolina Department of Transportation's electronic traffic signage system and other law enforcement mechanisms. The Chief of SLED shall act as the program's statewide coordinator.

(C) To aid in hindering a suspect's ability to flee and threaten citizens, communities, and other law enforcement personnel, SLED shall encourage and recruit television and radio broadcasters and other organizations to assist in the program by quickly disseminating information regarding the suspect.

(D) A blue alert may be issued if:

(1) a local, state, or federal law enforcement officer is killed, seriously injured, or abducted; and

(2) the law enforcement agency of jurisdiction:

(a) determines that a suspect poses a serious risk or threat to the public and other law enforcement personnel;

(b) possesses sufficient information that could assist in locating the suspect, including information regarding the suspect's vehicle; and

(c) recommends the issuance of a blue alert to SLED.

(E) SLED may issue a blue alert upon confirmation of the requirements of subsection (D). Upon issuance of a blue alert, information that could assist in locating a suspect may be displayed across the State via the South Carolina Department of Transportation's electronic traffic signage system and other law enforcement mechanisms. Also, the information may be disseminated to organizations assisting with the program.

(F) A blue alert may be canceled at the request of the law enforcement agency of jurisdiction or by the Chief of SLED when appropriate.

HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 124, Section 1, eff February 27, 2012.