More than 40 missing children, some as young as 18 months old, were safely recovered in a major multi-state operation earlier this month, officials announced on December 18.
The two-week operation, called Operation Northern Lights, was led by the U.S. Marshals Service and focused on recovering critically missing children across North Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. In total, 43 children were found, with the operation spanning 14 counties in Florida and multiple locations in the other states.
“This was the most successful missing child operation ever conducted in Northern Florida,” said Greg Leljedal, Acting U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of Florida. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of the U.S. Marshals and our law enforcement partners, 43 endangered children are now safe and will be home for the holidays.”
The operation took place from December 1 through December 12 and involved over 80 personnel from various federal, state, and local agencies. Social service providers, medical professionals, and child advocacy groups also played a key role. The mission’s focus was on locating critically missing children, offering immediate care and placement, and preventing criminal activity linked to child exploitation.
The U.S. Marshals Service defines “critically missing” children as those at high risk of violence or dangers like sexual exploitation, domestic violence, substance abuse, or crime exposure. The children recovered ranged from 1 year old to 17.
One of the most significant recoveries was a 1-year-old child from Leon County, Florida, who had been missing since September. The child was located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, through joint efforts by U.S. Marshals in Baton Rouge and New Orleans. The child is now in state custody.
Other notable recoveries included a 17-year-old and a 1-year-old from Okaloosa County, found outside Jackson, Mississippi. A 17-year-old from Suwannee County was recovered in Meadville, Mississippi, and a 13-year-old from the same county, who had been missing for eight months, was located in Jacksonville. A 15-year-old who had been abducted by a non-custodial adult was also found in Ocala, Florida, and the adult was arrested.
Throughout the operation, nine people were arrested, primarily on charges related to child custody interference. Authorities also identified two possible human trafficking cases, which are still under investigation. More charges related to child endangerment and custodial interference could be filed.
“Our office was honored to partner with U.S. Marshal Greg Leljedal in the Northern District of Florida to rescue 43 missing children,” said James Uthmeier. “We will bring the strongest charges possible against those who put these kids in harm’s way.”
The children rescued during the operation received immediate medical care, food, shelter, and counseling. Child advocates are also ensuring their long-term safety and support.
Derrick Driscoll of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children highlighted the emotional impact of the recoveries, saying, “Each child recovered represents a life removed from harm’s way.”
Operation Northern Lights was conducted under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015, which expanded the U.S. Marshals Service’s ability to assist other agencies in locating missing, endangered, or abducted children. Since the law was passed, the Marshals have helped recover nearly 4,000 children nationwide, with about 66% of cases successfully resolved, and 61% of children found within seven days.
Investigations connected to Operation Northern Lights are still ongoing, and authorities promise to release further updates as more charges are filed.
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