Governor DeWine Approves “Joshua Alert” to Speed Up Search for Missing Children
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has signed a new law creating a statewide emergency alert system designed to improve the safeguarding of children with autism and other developmental disabilities when they go missing. The legislation, known as House Bill 359, establishes the “Joshua Alert,” named in memory of 6-year-old Joshua Al-Lateef Jr., who drowned after going missing from his West Chester apartment complex.
Under the new system, emergency alerts will be issued when a child with autism or developmental disabilities is reported missing. The alerts aim to mobilise law enforcement, first responders, and communities quickly to support search efforts.
Child safety advocates say the measure strengthens coordinated response systems and reduces delays that can be critical in missing-child cases. Officials emphasised that rapid communication increases the chances of safe recovery.
The bill was sponsored by lawmakers from both political parties and passed with unanimous support in the Ohio House. It was introduced following sustained advocacy from Joshua’s mother, Jonisa Cook, who has campaigned for stronger protection measures since her son’s death.
Cook also founded the Joshua Al-Lateef Jr. Foundation, which supports families of children with autism by connecting them to essential services and resources.
A similar system, the “Ian Alert,” already operates in Kentucky, demonstrating growing efforts across U.S. states to strengthen child protection frameworks.
Authorities say the new alert system represents a step forward in safeguarding vulnerable children and ensuring faster, more coordinated responses during emergencies.
