In December 2025, law enforcement agencies joined forces in a large-scale effort named Operation Northern Lights that resulted in the successful recovery of 43 missing children — from infants to teenagers — across North Florida and nearby states. The coordinated initiative brought endangered youths to safety and led to multiple arrests, officials confirmed. WGME
🚔 Multi-Agency Search Operation Brings Children to Safety
Officials said the recovery mission unfolded over 12 days, involving more than 80 personnel from 25 different agencies including the U.S. Marshals Service, local sheriffs’ offices, federal partners, and child advocacy groups. The operation focused on locating youths classified as critically missing, a designation for children at elevated risk of harm such as exploitation, violence, or domestic instability.
During the sweep, children were found not only in Florida but also in locations across Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee, highlighting the multi-state nature of many missing youth cases.
Law enforcement described the operation as one of the most impactful efforts to date in the region, particularly because it reunited vulnerable children with supportive services and families in time for the holiday season.
👮 Key Recoveries & Arrests
Among the notable recoveries were:
- A 1-year-old child from Leon County found in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
- Multiple children, including toddlers and teens, located outside their home counties or across state lines.
Authorities made nine arrests tied primarily to interference with child custody, and two potential human trafficking cases were identified — with investigations still active. Additional charges related to child endangerment and trafficking are expected as officials continue to pursue leads.
Once located, the recovered children were provided with medical care, shelter, food, and counseling, along with support from child welfare advocates to help with emotional and physical recovery.
🧠 Continued Efforts to Protect Missing Youth
Officials emphasized that Operation Northern Lights demonstrates the power of collaboration among federal, state, and local partners in addressing missing child cases and preventing exploitation. The operation was carried out under enhanced authority granted to the U.S. Marshals Service to assist in locating children at serious risk.
Law enforcement leaders stated that these efforts help ensure that missing children are found quickly and safely, reducing their risk of exposure to harmful situations.
