Forty-eight missing children were safely found during a major law enforcement operation in Massachusetts called “Operation Yellow Card.”
The U.S. Marshals Service, the Massachusetts State Police, and the Boston Police Department ran the joint effort. Officers focused on finding vulnerable kids who were at a higher risk of human trafficking, abuse, and other dangerous crimes while Boston hosted events for the FIFA World Cup.
The recovered children ranged in age from 12 to 17. While many were found in Massachusetts, investigators followed leads across the country to locate several kids in other states. Beyond bringing the children to safety, officers gathered evidence that led to new criminal investigations into kidnapping and child exploitation.
The operation was carried out using powers given to the U.S. Marshals under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015.
“Every one of the 48 recoveries represents a child whose future has been changed and a family that has been given hope,” said Dennis Matulewicz, Acting U.S. Marshal for the District of Massachusetts. “Protecting vulnerable children is among the most important missions entrusted to the U.S. Marshals Service.”
State and local leaders pointed out that protecting kids remains a top priority during big international events.
“Every missing child we locate and recover is a young person given a greater opportunity to find safety, stability, and the support they need,” said Colonel Geoffrey Noble of the Massachusetts State Police.
Boston Police Commissioner Michael A. Cox said the operation should serve as a warning to criminals.
“If you commit these horrific and targeted crimes, we will work tirelessly to hold you accountable,” Cox said. “This important work was done surrounding the World Cup events, but it continues year-round.”
Several other agencies helped with the effort, including the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, local district attorneys’ offices, and the Massachusetts Department of Children & Families.
The U.S. Marshals Service noted that while Operation Yellow Card has ended, their work to find missing children and fight trafficking will go on as usual.
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