NASHVILLE (AP) — The TBI will begin issuing special alerts Friday to help apprehend violent criminals who harm law officers.

They are similar to Amber Alerts, which are designed to publicize the disappearance of a child.

The new "Blue Alerts" will use the statewide infrastructure of the Amber Alert system, including the state Smartway Signs.

The "Blue Alerts" will be activated after law enforcement officers are killed or seriously injured in the line or duty and to help locate a missing officer when foul play is involved.

The new alerts will be handled by the TBI's Criminal Intelligence Unit.