There are four criteria used to determine if an AMBER Alert should be issued in Iowa, according to the State of Iowa’s website. The four criteria include:
1. Law enforcement confirms a child has been abducted and entry has been made into the IOWA/NCIC Systems identifying the child as missing.
2. The child is under the age of 18.
3. Law enforcement believes the circumstances surrounding the abduction indicate the child is in danger of serious bodily harm or death.
4. There is enough descriptive information about the child, abductor, or suspect’s vehicle to believe an immediate broadcast alert will help.

In regards to the Karyn Mehaffy case in Winfield on Friday, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office stated it was attempted to issue an AMBER Alert but the case did not meet the criteria and the request was declined. The case is still actively under investigation.

For more information on the case click here.