“When a child is likely in danger, can’t be located, or is seen being abducted, and immediate action is needed, time is precious. Resources that make up a CART team could make a difference. Building upon CART’s past success, we are unveiling a new model for CART across Ohio,” said Attorney General Mike DeWine.
A Child Abduction Response Team, or CART, is designed to respond when a missing child is considered to be in immediate danger. The previous model centered on a list of individuals who would perform specific tasks as part of the CART.
The new model features a CART coordinator. This person would gather local resources that might be needed in the event of a missing, endangered child. Search-and-rescue personnel, investigators, water and air assets, search dogs, and victim advocates are among the area resources a CART coordinator would look for. Since the coordinator would know the local capabilities well, responses could be customized to best meet the situation.
“Every person who wears a law enforcement uniform cares about our children,” said Attorney General Mike DeWine. “Planning today for what could happen tomorrow is a great way to protect Ohio’s families.”
The new model is the result of an ongoing review of the CART model over the last two years by representatives from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police, the Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
CART coordinators have been named but additional ones are needed. An agency’s chief executive officer appoints the coordinator. In choosing someone, federal criteria that should be considered include: someone who possesses supervisory responsibilities within the local law enforcement agency and has a proven background in leadership and management.
For more information on CART coordinators, contact Larry McCoy at BCI,
740-845-2406 or at
larry.mccoy@ohioattorneygeneral.gov