MILWAUKEE — Wisconsin is expanding its child abduction alert system, so more missing children cases qualify to have Amber Alerts go out in the future.
On Tuesday, Gov. Tony Evers signed the Prince Act into law.
The law was named after 5-year-old Prince McCree. The Milwaukee boy went missing in Oct. 2023 and was found dead a day later.
Two men who were living with the family are in custody for his death.
Prince McCree’s mom called 911 when she couldn’t find her son at home. However, an Amber Alert never went out for him.
Up until Tuesday, Amber Alerts were only issued if a missing child was 17-years-old or younger, was in danger of serious bodily harm or death, and police had enough information about the child, suspect or suspect’s vehicle to believe an immediate broadcast alert could help locate the child.
The Prince Act now broadens the qualifications for an Amber Alert. Now, one may be issues for children younger than 10 years old and any children who need assistance to make it home — including children with physical or mental conditions or disabilities.
“It allows and alerts to be issued even if certain information regarding the disappearance is not available,” said Evers. “This will enable faster alerts and the public will be made aware and engaged.”
Under the broader guidelines, Amber Alerts could have gone out for Prince McCree or for Lily Peters. Peters went missing in Chippewa Falls in 2022. A teen boy was accused of sexually assaulting and killing her.
“It’s because of these two kids that from today going forward, all other kids will be searched for in honor of Prince and Lily,” said State Sen. LaTonya Johnson. “Their tragedies were turned into something great. Their deaths were not in vain because it changed the trajectory of the resources that these children will have statewide.”
Prince McCree’s father, Darron McCree, remembered his oldest son as someone who was full of life.
“He was amazing,” said Darron McCree. “He was always happy, always had a smile on his face.”
Darron McCree said his hope is that the new law will ensure no other family goes through the pain the McCree family has had to endure.
“I believe that it’s a life changer for so many people,” said Darron McCree. “So many lives will be saved that can be saved.”
Peters’ sister, Kailee Whitcome, agreed.
“She was my best friend,” said Whitcome. “I did everything with her. Everyone loved her. Shew as just a little bundle of joy.”