OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Department of Corrections announced Friday that the new Orange Alert notification system is operational and ready for citizens to opt in.
The Oklahoma Department of Corrections worked with Rave Mobile Safety to set up the text message network to ensure Oklahomans can conveniently register to receive alerts about prison escapes.
The idea for the Orange Alert system came to Katie Edelen after county jail escapees took her aunt hostage. Edelen decided to help all Oklahomans be safer when an inmate walks away or escapes from a prison. While attending a legislative camp held at the State Capitol in 2022, the then-high school senior drafted legislation to institute an alert system that notifies citizens of such times when inmates unlawfully leave a correctional facility, according to a press release.
Rep. Anthony Moore learned of her proposed legislation and decided it needed to be an actual law. Moore and Sen. Darcy Jech co-authored HB 1546, which passed unanimously in both chambers during the 2023 legislative session. Gov. Kevin Stitt signed it into law on May 17, and it takes effect on Wednesday.
Unlike an Amber Alert, the Orange Alert is an optional system and is not location-based. Citizens may opt-in to receive notifications by texting a keyword to 77295. Each facility’s keyword can be found at orangealert.ok.gov. In the event of a walkaway or escape, the alert will be issued to those on the specific facility’s list, according to a press release.
Want to reach a local audience and grow your business?
Our website is the perfect platform to connect with engaged readers in your local area.
Whether you're looking for banner ads, sponsored content, or custom promotions, we can tailor a package to meet your needs.
Contact us today to learn more about advertising opportunities!
CONTACT US NOW
