Probable cause document explains why AMBER Alert wasn't issued for missing girls

WENATCHEE, Wash. — The three girls found dead outside of Leavenworth on Monday were reported missing on Friday and an Endangered Missing Person Alert was issued on Saturday.

Their father, Travis Decker, remains at large following the discovery of the girls’ bodies near a remote campground.

Given the tragic outcome of the case, questions remain around why an AMBER Alert wasn’t issued.

Here’s how the state AMBER Alert system works and why authorities say this case wasn’t considered eligible for such an alert.

What is the criteria for an AMBER Alert

The Washington State AMBER Alert Plan was enacted in 2003. Washington State Patrol is the designated lead agency and the chief of WSP has final decision-making authority over the plan.

The criteria:

1. Child is under eighteen (18) and kno