This issue of The AMBER Advocate examines the 1996 abduction and murder of 9-year-old Amber Hagerman, which started the AMBER Alert initiative. It also focuses on milestones of the AMBER Alert program over its 30-year history. The issue features AMBER Alert activities in Texas, California, Maryland, Indian country, and those internationally.
Three decades after the abduction of Amber Hagerman on January 13, 1996, her case—that inspired the AMBER Alert initiative—remains unsolved. This issue's top story features lessons drawn from the high-profile investigation into Amber's murder. Also featured is an interactive timeline reflecting key moments in AMBER Alert history: from its inception and global expansion to its most innovative technological achievements. In the issue's Faces section, lead investigators from both past and present discuss the case. Hear about their relentless pursuit for justice. Retired Sgt. Mark Simpson, of the Arlington Police Dept. in Texas, provides insightful approaches to missing child cases from which all law enforcement agencies can learn. The issue also highlights AMBER Alert-related news briefs from the U.S., Indian country, and around the world.