Operation We Will Find You 2: US Marshals Rescue 200 Missing Children
The U.S. Marshals Service recently made a significant breakthrough in its efforts to protect vulnerable children. Over a six-week period, they successfully rescued and located 200 missing or endangered children, a remarkable achievement announced on Monday.
This operation, known as “Operation We Will Find You 2,” focused on several hot spot cities, including Phoenix, Arizona, and Miami, Florida.
“Whenever a child is missing, whether we cannot explain how they went missing, whether we think it was a family abduction, or whether it’s a runaway, they are at risk of being in danger and at risk of being trafficked, at risk of being hurt, we need to take it very, very seriously,” emphasized U.S. Marshals Service Director Ronald Davis during a press conference.
According to the source, the operation ran from May 20 to June 24, 2024, and involved a collaboration between the U.S. Marshals Service and various federal, state, and local partner agencies.
With crucial technical assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), they were able to remove 123 children from dangerous situations and locate 77 children in safe locations. This comprehensive effort demonstrates the importance of multi-agency cooperation in addressing such critical issues.
“Our kids are our most precious asset,” Davis stated. “We need to make sure that all of them have an opportunity to grow in a safe environment. I think that is our obligation.”
The U.S. Marshals Service has conducted similar operations six times prior to this one. In 2024 alone, they have located 546 children, which is an increase from the previous year but still lower than the nearly 950 children recovered in 2021. This highlights the ongoing and significant challenges in protecting missing and endangered children.
Michelle DeLaune, president of NCMEC, expressed her gratitude for the relentless efforts of the Marshals Service. “We are incredibly grateful for the work of the Marshals Service in locating these missing children,” DeLaune said.
This sentiment underscores the vital role that such partnerships play in safeguarding vulnerable populations.
Phoenix emerged as the area with the highest number of children rescued during the six-week operation, reflecting the targeted focus on high-risk locations. This strategic approach ensures that resources are concentrated where they are most needed, enhancing the effectiveness of the operation.
Despite the success of Operation We Will Find You 2, Davis acknowledged that the number of children rescued is “just scratching the surface.” This sobering reminder highlights the vast scope of the issue and the need for continued vigilance and efforts to protect children from harm.
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The technical assistance provided by NCMEC was instrumental in the success of the operation. Their expertise and resources enabled the Marshals Service to navigate the complex landscape of missing child cases, ensuring that each child was located as swiftly and safely as possible.
This operation also underscores the critical importance of raising awareness about the dangers faced by missing children. Whether due to family abduction, running away, or other circumstances, these children are at significant risk of trafficking and other forms of exploitation.
Public awareness and support are essential in combating these threats and ensuring the safety of vulnerable children.
In conclusion, the success of Operation We Will Find You 2 is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the U.S. Marshals Service and their partners.
While much work remains to be done, the rescue and location of 200 children over six weeks is a significant achievement that provides hope and underscores the importance of continued efforts in this vital area.