The Dangerous Myth All Minnesotans Need To Know

WHEN SOMEONE GOES MISSING

I can't imagine the horror a family goes through when they discover that a loved one is missing. They think their child is napping, and when they check in on them, they aren't there. Or perhaps a teenager goes out on a date and doesn't return home at their curfew. Whatever the scenario, many Minnesotans believe that you cannot report someone missing for 24 hours.

THE MYTH

According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, you should report someone missing as soon as you believe it to be true.

According to the website, the first 48 to 72 hours are crucial after someone disappears.

The myth probably started in television shows and movies. Unfortunately, many people believe that they can't report a missing person during these oh-so-important first valuable hours, and we need to get the word out that the sooner you report it to the police, the better.

BRANDON'S LAW

Brandon's Law was enacted in 2009. The law was created after Brandon Swanson; whose car was stuck in a ditch in southwestern Minnesota. His parents were on their way to help, but they lost their cellphone connection and have never found Brandon. He is still missing to this day.

Brandon's Law requires law enforcement to take a missing person's report 'without delay' when anyone goes missing under dangerous circumstances.

SHARE THIS INFORMATION

The following is information I would suggest you print and put up somewhere in your home so you know what to do in case something like this happens to you.

WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE GOES MISSING

1. File a police report immediately- Filing a police report is the first step in starting and supporting a police investigation.

2. Gather identifying information about the person you are looking for. This could include:

• A clear description of the person.
• Describe what they were wearing.
• Give the police a recent photo or video.
• Give the police phone numbers of cell phones they may have.

3. Gather additional evidence for more in-depth investigations. This could include:

• Computers or devices used by the missing individual.
• Anything that could contain a DNA sample of the missing person like a toothbrush or hairbrush.
• Medical and dental records.

4. Stay in touch with investigators and keep them updated with any new information as it becomes available.

THE BOTTOM LINE

The bottom line is this. It is a MYTH that you have to wait 24 hours to report a missing person. Once you realize someone is missing, report it immediately.

If you need more information on reporting a missing individual, click HERE.