Utah § 53-10-1002 - Amber Alert criteria.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 53-10-1002 — Amber Alert criteria., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 53-10-1002. Amber Alert criteria.

Effective 5/3/2023
53-10-1002. Amber Alert criteria.

(1)

Except as provided in Subsection (2), if a law enforcement agency receives a report that an abduction of a child has occurred, including an abduction of a child by the child's parent or guardian, the investigating law enforcement agency may issue an Amber Alert if:

(a)	the investigating law enforcement agency confirms that an abduction of the child has occurred;

(b)	the investigating law enforcement agency believes there is a credible threat of imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death to the child; and

(c)	there is sufficient descriptive information about the child, alleged abductor, or the circumstances surrounding the abduction to indicate that issuing an Amber Alert will assist in the safe recovery of the child or the apprehension of the abductor.

(2)

A law enforcement agency may not issue an Amber Alert:

(a)	for a reported runaway; or

(b)	for the taking, concealing, or detaining of a child by the child's parent during a child custody dispute regarding the child, unless there is a credible threat of imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death to the child.

(3)	The investigating law enforcement agency may use relevant law enforcement technology, including an automatic license plate reader system, to locate a vehicle that is being sought in connection with an issued Amber Alert.

(4)	The department and the Department of Transportation may make rules in accordance with Title 63G, Chapter 3, Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act, establishing policies and procedures for the operation and maintenance of the Amber Alert System other than mobile network operations.

Enacted by Chapter 404, 2023 General Session

Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 53-10-1002

What does Utah Code § 53-10-1002 cover?

Section 53-10-1002 ("Amber Alert criteria.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Utah § 53-10-1002?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 53-10-1002" (Utah). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Utah law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.

How does Utah § 53-10-1002 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Official text of § 53-10-1002 at the Utah source

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Utah.