Purple Alert Activation Steps
The Florida Purple Alert is used to assist in the location of missing adults suffering from a mental or cognitive disability that is not Alzheimer’s disease or a dementia-related disorder; an intellectual disability or a developmental disability; a brain injury; other physical, mental or emotional disabilities that are not related to substance abuse; or a combination of any of these and whose disappearance poses a credible threat of immediate danger or seriously bodily harm. Purple Alerts engage the public in the search for the missing person and provide a standardized and coordinated community response.
Purple Alert Criteria
- The person is 18 years of age or older and does not qualify for a Silver Alert.
- Has your investigation determined the missing person:
- Has any combination of the following: an intellectual or developmental disability, brain injury; or another physical, mental, or emotional disability that is not related to substance abuse -and-
- Does not have Alzheimer’s disease or a dementia related disorder?
- Has your law enforcement agency’s investigation concluded that the disappearance poses a credible threat of immediate danger or serious bodily harm to the missing person and they can only be returned to safety through law enforcement intervention?
- Is there a detailed description of the missing person suitable for distribution?
- Has your agency entered the missing person into the Florida Crime Information Center (FCIC)?
- Does the agency recommend activation?
Purple Alert Activation Steps
- The local law enforcement agency must enter the missing person into FCIC/NCIC.
- The local law enforcement agency must notify media outlets in their area and/or surrounding jurisdictions.
- Once the above steps have been completed, the local law enforcement agency may request a Purple Alert by calling the FDLE Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse (MEPIC) at 1-888-356-4774.
- The FDLE will ensure that the information is broadcast via dynamic highway message signs when applicable and via email/text through sign-up by public citizens and other resources.
Note: Only law enforcement agencies can request activation of a Purple Alert. If you would like to report a missing person, please contact your local police department or sheriff’s office first, then contact MEPIC at 1-888-FL MISSING (356-4774).
Law Enforcement Resources
- Florida Department of Elder Affairs (850) 414-2000
- Media Alert 813-282-8612
- A Child is Missing, Inc. 1-888-875-2246
- Florida Department of Highway Safety Motor Vehicles Medical Reporting Form