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Ohio Senate creates escaped‑convict alert program modeled on Amber Alert
Summary
The Senate passed House Bill 23 unanimously to establish an Escaped Convict Alert Program (ECAP) to provide timely, targeted notifications when people charged with or convicted of a felony escape custody. Sponsors said the system will aid rural counties and shared‑facility jails.
The Ohio Senate unanimously passed House Bill 23 to create an Escaped Convict Alert Program, a statewide system modeled on the Amber Alert framework to notify the public when a person charged with or convicted of a felony escapes custody.
Senator Johnson, speaking in support, said the program “would provide law enforcement with a structured, flexible and responsible tool to issue targeted alerts when a person charged with or convicted of a felony escapes from custody,” adding that the measure is modeled on Ohio’s Amber Alert system. He described ECAP as especially useful for smaller rural counties that rely on shared facilities or transport.
Senator Weinstein backed the bill, saying it will “enhance public safety and transparency by ensuring that communities receive timely and accurate information when a convicted criminal escapes custody.” The clerk recorded a roll call result of 32 yeas and 0 nays; President Macaulay announced the bill “is passed and entitled.”
Supporters noted unanimous committee votes in both chambers and endorsements from county sheriffs and the original author of Ohio’s Amber Alert law. The bill now proceeds to enrollment and the governor.
