Proposed 'Guardian' app aims to centralize missing persons data

The app would provide a hub for alerts, police bulletins, and community updates on missing persons cases.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 7:55pm

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Lawmakers in Virginia are pushing for the creation of a new mobile app called 'Guardian' that would serve as a centralized hub for missing persons information. The app would consolidate various alert systems like Amber Alerts and CODI Alerts, which currently only broadcast for a limited time. Supporters say the app could help raise long-term awareness for open missing persons cases across the country.

Why it matters

With over 26,000 active missing persons cases in the U.S. as of 2026, the proposed Guardian app aims to improve coordination and information-sharing between law enforcement, families, and the public. Advocates believe the app could lead to more missing persons being found by providing a dedicated platform for alerts, bulletins, and community updates.

The details

The Guardian app is being spearheaded by the York County Commonwealth Attorney's Office and United Way. They are seeking state funding to develop and launch the app, which would be the first of its kind in Virginia and potentially the country. The app would consolidate various missing persons alerts like Amber Alerts and CODI Alerts, which currently only broadcast for a limited time. Supporters say the centralized platform could lead to more long-term exposure and awareness for open missing persons cases.

  • As of February 4, 2026, there are over 26,000 active missing persons cases in the United States.

The players

Marcus Calabrese

A spokesperson with the York County Commonwealth Attorney's Office who is passionate about the Guardian app project.

Krystyn Reid

The York County Commonwealth's Attorney leading the charge to secure funding for the Guardian app.

J.D. "Danny" Diggs

A Virginia State Senator who is excited about the Guardian app and believes it will improve the efficiency of existing missing persons alert systems.

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What they’re saying

“We can create an app — it'd be the first of its kind in Virginia, but the country overall — where it will house a lot of the alerts: Amber alert, CODI alert, Silver alert, Ashanti alert.”

— Marcus Calabrese, Spokesperson, York County Commonwealth Attorney's Office

“They each work well individually on their own, but this just makes them more efficient by bringing them together in one place.”

— J.D. "Danny" Diggs, Virginia State Senator

What’s next

The legislators behind the Guardian app are trying to pass a budget amendment to get the app implemented this year.

The takeaway

The proposed Guardian app aims to improve coordination and information-sharing on missing persons cases by consolidating various alert systems into a centralized platform. Supporters believe this could lead to more missing persons being found by providing long-term exposure and community engagement around open cases.