In a significant nationwide initiative, Operation Dragon Eye successfully located 200 missing children across the U.S., marking it as one of the most productive missing child recovery efforts in U.S. history. The operation, which spanned six weeks, included a focused two-week effort in the Tampa Bay area, where 60 critically missing children aged 9 to 17 were rescued. This operation was spearheaded by the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) in conjunction with 20 other agencies, including local law enforcement and social service organizations.
During the Tampa operation, eight individuals were arrested on various charges, including human trafficking, child endangerment, and drug-related offenses. The recovered children, many of whom were at significant risk of violence or exploitation, were provided with essential services, including physical and psychological care, as part of a plan to support their reintegration and prevent further victimization.
William Berger, U.S. Marshal for the Middle District of Florida, emphasized the unique aspect of the operation, highlighting its focus on long-term support for the children rescued. He underscored the importance of the collaboration among agencies and expressed his commitment to protecting children from exploitation.
The USMS has participated in numerous recovery efforts over the last decade, consistently achieving a high recovery rate. Operation Dragon Eye was described as a culmination of a multi-disciplinary approach, involving federal, state, local agencies, and non-profits, all united with a shared goal of safeguarding vulnerable children.
Attorney General James Uthmeier remarked on the pressing importance of such operations, prioritizing child protection in law enforcement efforts. The success of Operation Dragon Eye is a testament to what can be achieved when agencies work together to combat child exploitation and trafficking.
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