Florida officials have announced the recovery of 163 missing children during a five-day statewide operation that brought together local, state and federal agencies. The initiative was named Operation Statewide Shield. The team located children ranging from 2 months to 17 years old.
Many of these rescued children had reportedly experienced abuse, neglect, exploitation or human trafficking, according to Attorney General James Uthmeier’s office.
The recovered children were taken to designated recovery hubs where they received medical care and counselling. Additionally, child welfare professionals, victim advocates and social service providers also provided support regarding next steps.
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Where were the missing children found?
Officials released a regional breakdown showing where the children were recovered during the operation. The Tampa Bay region accounted for the highest number, followed by Miami and Jacksonville.
The locations are:
- Tampa Bay region: 46 children
- Miami: 41
- Jacksonville: 32
- Orlando: 21
- Fort Myers: 12
- Pensacola: 8
- Tallahasee: 3
Authorities did not disclose the exact circumstances under which each child was found or whether all of the children had been missing for the same length of time. Attorney General James Uthmeier, however, said that many of the children had been victimized by people who targeted vulnerable minors.
“Many of these kids have been victimized by those who prey on the most vulnerable,” Uthmeier said. He credited the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the Office of Statewide Prosecution and local partners for helping return the children to safety.
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Multiple arrests have been made
Authorities confirmed that “multiple” arrests were made during Operation Statewide Shield. They have not released the total number and have confirmed that additional arrests are to be made as the investigation progresses.
According to state officials, one of the suspects was wanted on three counts of lewd and lascivious acts with a minor. The suspect also had an outstanding warrant for interference with child custody. Another suspect has been charged with lewd and lascivious battery involving a victim between the ages of 12 and 16.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass said the operation demonstrated the power of coordinated law enforcement efforts.
“Operation Statewide Shield demonstrates the power of collaboration and the unwavering commitment shared by all participating agencies and organizations to achieve a singular mission: find our kids and bring them home,” Glass said. He added that state, local and federal agencies worked together to safely recover all 163 children.
