Politics & Government
State Sen. Patton Supports Alert System For Suspects Who Have Killed, Injured Officers
Patton's son, a former Cleveland Heights Police officer, died while chasing a suspect in 2010
The Ohio General Assembly approved legislation Wednesday to create an alert system that is used when a suspect has injured or killed a police officer.
State Sen. Tom Patton (R-Strongsville), whose son was a Cleveland Heights Police officer and died while chasing a suspect in 2010, sponsored the "Blue Alert system." A portion of Mayfield Road was renamed "Officer Thomas F. Patton II Memorial Highway" in September in the officer's honor. State Sen. Gayle Manning (R-North Ridgeville) also sponsored the legislation.
“Much like Amber Alerts and Silver Alerts, Blue Alerts utilize broadcast alert systems to relay information about the suspect to the public in a timely manner,” according to a press release from Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine’s office.
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Ohio will join 13 other states that have Blue Alert systems, including Alabama, California, Maryland, Tennessee and Texas.
To read the full press release, visit the Ohio Attorney General website.
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