Florida Operation Dragon Eye Rescues 60 Missing Children, Arrests Eight

Operation Dragon Eye, led by the U.S. Marshals Service Middle District of Florida in coordination with over 20 agencies, resulted in the rescue of 60 critically missing children aged 9 to 17, marking the largest child rescue operation in U.S. history. The children, many from underprivileged backgrounds and some victims of kidnapping or human trafficking, were provided with medical, psychological, and advocacy support following their recovery. Eight individuals were arrested on charges including human trafficking, child endangerment, and drug trafficking, with some victims found in dire conditions such as pregnancy and substance abuse. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier and U.S. Marshal William Berger emphasized the operation's unprecedented scale and success in safeguarding vulnerable youth and disrupting trafficking networks. The operation highlights the importance of multi-agency collaboration and serves as a model for combating child exploitation nationwide. Efforts continue with follow-up investigations to prevent further victimization and support the children's long-term recovery.