The U.S. Marshals Service, called “Operation Dragon Eye,” the most successful child rescue operation in American history.
TAMPA, Fla. — In Florida, a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies has successfully led to the safe recovery of 60 children, as reported by state Attorney General James Uthmeier. Many of these children had been reported missing. Additionally, eight individuals have been arrested in what is being described by the United States Marshals Service as the largest child rescue operation in U.S. history.
Uthmeier revealed the achievements of “Operation Dragon Eye” at a news conference in Tampa, where he was joined by federal, state, and local law enforcement partners on Monday morning.
“Our top priority is ensuring the safety of our children and making Florida the safest place to raise a family,” stated Uthmeier. “Today’s outcome reflects our dedicated effort to fulfill that commitment.”
Operation Dragon Eye’s mission centered on helping find missing children in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties. The operation took place over two weeks, and the rescued children ranged in age from nine to 17 years old.
Uthmeier said many of the children were in “critical danger” and at risk of trafficking.
“Many of these kids have been through painful, disastrous situations,” he said. “But at least today we’ve rescued them and we now can work towards recovery.”
Authorities said eight adults were charged with crimes ranging from human trafficking to child endangerment, along with drug charges, as a result of the operation. The suspects were given bonds ranging from no bond to a $250 million bond, officials said.
During the operation, authorities identified at least 26 children rescued who had been reported missing to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Law enforcement and state officials, along with victim advocacy groups, spoke during Monday’s news conference, applauding the coordinated effort among 20 agencies to recover dozens of children safely.
“Operation Dragon Eye is a powerful example of what we can achieve when we come together with urgency and with shared purpose,” said Florida Department of Children and Families Secretary Taylor Hatch. “Thanks to your efforts, 60 children, as you have heard, are now safe and supported and that’s something everyone should be proud of.”
