CODI Alerts Program Information

This program is available for use by all Virginia law enforcement agencies.

Criteria for the Activation of the CODI Alert

Each law enforcement agency shall investigate the matter to verify the disappearance, and eliminate alternative explanations where evidence is lacking.  Information must be established to meet the definition of a missing or endangered child.  Also, sufficient information must be available to disseminate to the public to assist in locating the missing child, to include a vehicle if there is one, in order to activate the alert. Elements for a missing or endangered child:

1. Any person 17 years of age or younger or is currently enrolled in a secondary school in the Commonwealth;
2. Whose whereabouts are unknown, and;
3. Whose disappearance is under suspicious circumstances or poses a credible threat as determined by law enforcement to the safety and health of the child, or;
4. Based on any other circumstances as deemed appropriate by the Virginia State Police.

Plan Components

Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN)

VCIN is a telecommunication system which provides 24-hour access to Virginia law enforcement agencies to enter and query criminal justice information, including information concerning missing persons.

Virginia Missing Persons Clearinghouse (VMPC)

The Clearinghouse is operated by the Virginia State Police and provides the public with information regarding missing persons through the Virginia Missing Persons website. Additionally, the VMPC utilizes Everbridge software; a public notification and warning platform capable of disseminating messages to the media and other partners.