DeVore suggests Amber Alert to catch suspects

Assemblyman Chuck DeVore has introduced a bill that would employ the state Amber Alert system to alert motorists to felons who may be fleeing the state.

The bill would provide current information about the suspects, including a description of their appearance and vehicle, as well as a number to call should drivers see anything suspicious.

“It would encourage people, of course, not to apprehend the person, but report it if they see a person and/or their vehicle,” DeVore said.

DeVore was inspired to pass the bill after hearing the story of a law enforcement officer who was killed by a fleeing felon who had escaped to Mexico, effectively escaping the death penalty.

Mexico typically does not extradite criminals who may face the death penalty.

The bill will likely be heard in both the Assembly Public Safety and Transportation Committees, DeVore said.

— Chris Caesar