In a nationwide effort to find and protect missing children, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) has successfully located 200 critically missing children across the United States. The operation [1], “Operation We Will Find You 2,” spanned six weeks from May 20 to June 24 and focused on areas with high concentrations of missing children.
The operation involved collaboration with federal, state, and local agencies in seven federal judicial districts and geographical locations. Of the 200 children found, 173 were endangered runaways, and 25 were considered otherwise missing. The youngest child recovered was only five months old.
U.S. Marshals Director Ronald L. Davis emphasized the importance of the mission, stating, “One of the most sacred missions of the U.S. Marshals Service is locating and recovering our nation’s critically missing children.” He added that there are still thousands of children missing and at risk.
The operation led to the recovery and removal of 123 children from dangerous situations, while an additional 77 were found in safe locations. The children were located in various cities and counties across the country, including Phoenix, Stockton, Miami-Dade, Kent, New Hanover, and Portland.
Several incidents highlight the success of the operation. In the Western District of Michigan, a 16-year-old girl was found in an apartment in Hammond, Indiana, after being controlled and abused by a 30-year-old adult male. In the Southern District of Florida, a 15-year-old girl was located in an apartment complex in Miami-Dade after becoming a victim of human trafficking.
The U.S. Marshals Service continues to prioritize the recovery of missing children and the prevention of child sex trafficking, abuse, exploitation, and other crimes against children.