Why AMBER Alert Was Not Issued for Dunn
-->By: Laura Kellerman
Updated: January 4, 2011
Several people are posting online comments calling for an AMBER Alert to be issued, but confirmation of abduction is the No. 1 recommended criteria for doing so, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
"AMBER plans require law enforcement to confirm an abduction prior to issuing an alert. This is essential when determining the level of risk to the child. Clearly, stranger abductions are the most dangerous for children and thus are primary to the mission of an AMBER Alert. To allow activations in the absence of significant information that an abduction has occurred could lead to abuse of the system and ultimately weaken its effectiveness. At the same time, each case must be appraised on its own merits and a judgment call made quickly. Law enforcement must understand that a 'best judgment' approach, based on the evidence, is appropriate and necessary." —AmberAlert.gov
Other guidelines include risk of serious bodily injury or death, sufficient descriptive information, and age of the child.
There is currently a $10,000 reward for information leading to Hailey's safe return.
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