In what is being hailed as one of the largest child-recovery operations in American history, Attorney General James Uthmeier today announced the successful conclusion of “Operation Home for the Holidays,” a historic initiative led by the U.S. Marshals Service that resulted in the location or safe recovery of 122 missing children.
The massive, two-week operation surpassed the scale of previous recovery efforts and spanned across major Florida cities—including Tampa Bay, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Fort Myers—and extended into nine other states.
“Thanks to one of the single largest child-rescue operations in U.S. history, 122 missing children are safe,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “This operation highlights the strength and diligence of Florida’s Law Enforcement… We will prosecute their abusers to the fullest extent of the law.”
Record-Breaking Results and Law Enforcement Action
The multi-disciplinary task force proactively located vulnerable youth ranging in age from 23 months to 17 years old. Many of the recovered children had experienced varying levels of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or exposure to criminal activity.
Key recovery statistics include:
- 57 children recovered in the Tampa Bay region.
- 22 children recovered in Jacksonville.
- 29 children recovered in Fort Myers.
- 14 children recovered in Orlando.
- Recoveries also occurred in nine other states.
The operation has already resulted in six felony arrests, with Attorney General Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution taking on multiple felony cases, including crimes involving sexual battery on a child and custodial interference. Additional charges are expected as investigations continue.
“This operation was built based upon the wants and needs of our communities,” said United States Marshal for the Middle District of Florida Bill Berger. “We are honored to play a leading role in answering those calls.”
A Unified Mission for Child Safety
State officials emphasized the critical collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies under Governor Ron DeSantis’s leadership. The task force utilized real-time intelligence to locate missing children, and victim advocates and child welfare specialists were immediately available to provide resources.
“By gathering critical intelligence, pursuing every lead, and working together… we achieved a unified mission and delivered meaningful results—122 children and youth are now safe, and that is a victory for our entire state,” said FDLE Deputy Commissioner Vaden Pollard.
Department of Children and Families Secretary Taylor N. Hatch echoed the sentiment, stating the operation is “a testament to what we can accomplish when we come together with urgency and shared purpose to recover Florida’s most vulnerable children.”
The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice also played a role in connecting the youth with essential services, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to both recovery and aftercare.
The successful operation is a significant victory for law enforcement and child welfare agencies committed to protecting the state’s most vulnerable population, sending a strong message to those who exploit children.
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