Wyoming law enforcement implements expedited Amber and Ashanti alert procedures

In a recent meeting of the Select Committee on Tribal Relations, held on May 23, 2025, members discussed significant advancements in the state's alert systems for missing persons. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as officials highlighted the importance of timely responses in critical situations, particularly when it comes to locating missing individuals.

Brian Kent, a representative from the communication center, explained how a new bill has transformed the way alerts are issued across Wyoming. Previously, reports of missing persons would typically be funneled back to local sheriff's departments for investigation, often leading to delays. Now, any law enforcement agency, including park rangers and state officials, can initiate an alert directly, streamlining the process significantly. Kent emphasized that "time is of the essence," noting that the new system has reduced the activation time for alerts to under 30 minutes.

Since the implementation of this system in February 2023, there have been six activations statewide, although none have originated from tribal reservations. This gap highlights a potential area for outreach and education, as officials noted that they are available 24/7 to assist with any alerts that may arise.

The meeting also served as an opportunity to clarify the differences between various alert types, including the well-known Amber Alert, which is issued for abducted children, and the newer Ashanti Alert, designed for missing adults. The committee members recognized the need for public awareness regarding these alerts, as many citizens remain unfamiliar with the criteria and processes involved.

As the meeting concluded, the committee expressed a commitment to improving communication and collaboration with tribal entities, ensuring that all communities in Wyoming are equipped to respond effectively to missing persons cases. The discussions underscored a collective determination to enhance public safety and foster stronger relationships between state agencies and tribal nations.