FLORIDA - A large-scale law enforcement operation in December led to the recovery of dozens of missing children across Florida and multiple other states, following an intensive multiagency search effort.
Federal and local authorities announced that Operation Northern Lights resulted in the safe recovery of 43 critically missing children during a coordinated operation conducted from December 1st through December 12th.
The effort was led by the U.S. Marshals Service and involved more than 80 personnel from 25 agencies, including sheriff’s offices, state law enforcement, and federal investigators.
Officials said the children recovered ranged in age from approximately 1-year-old to 17-years-old.
Law enforcement defines critically missing children as those believed to be at heightened risk due to factors such as suspected exploitation, abuse, human trafficking, or domestic violence.
Investigators worked around the clock to locate children who had been missing for weeks or months, in some cases traveling across state lines to do so.
According to law enforcement reports, some of the children were found hundreds of miles away from where they were reported missing.
Several cases involved alleged interference with child custody, and authorities confirmed that nine individuals were arrested during the operation.
Any additional charges, including those related to alleged human trafficking or child endangerment, remain under investigation.
Officials emphasized that suspects are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Once located, the children were immediately provided medical care, food, shelter, and access to counseling services.
Child welfare agencies and advocacy organizations assisted with reunification efforts and ongoing support.
Authorities described Operation Northern Lights as one of the most successful missing child recovery operations ever conducted in North Florida, crediting interagency cooperation and specialized investigative resources.
Law enforcement officials stated that similar operations will continue as part of ongoing efforts to locate and protect endangered children.