Florida law enforcement agencies and partner organizations recovered 163 missing children during a five-day multi-agency operation known as Operation Statewide Shield. The operation was announced by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier in August 2026 and involved state, local, and federal agencies.
The children recovered during the operation ranged in age from two months to 17 years. According to the Florida Attorney General's Office, many of the children had experienced abuse, neglect, exploitation, or human trafficking.
Officials reported that 46 children were recovered in the Tampa Bay region, 41 in Miami, 32 in Jacksonville, 21 in Orlando, 12 in Fort Myers, eight in Pensacola, and three in Tallahassee. Authorities did not publicly provide the circumstances surrounding each individual recovery.
The operation extended beyond Florida. Authorities reported locating children in six other U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and 12 foreign countries. Countries identified in reports included Brazil, Canada, Mexico, and Spain.
Children recovered during the operation were taken to designated recovery hubs. Medical personnel, child welfare professionals, victim advocates, and social service providers provided medical care, counseling, and assistance with subsequent services.
Authorities also reported multiple arrests connected to the investigation. Charges included interference with child custody, lewd and lascivious offenses involving minors, and human trafficking. Officials stated that additional arrests could follow as investigations continued.
One suspect was reported to have been wanted on three counts involving lewd and lascivious acts with a minor as well as an outstanding warrant for interference with child custody. Another suspect was charged with lewd and lascivious battery involving a victim between 12 and 16 years old.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass said the operation involved cooperation among state, local, and federal agencies. Officials said the agencies coordinated their efforts to locate missing children and connect recovered children with medical and social services.
