In what authorities are calling the most important youngster restoration operation in Florida historical past — and probably the nation’s — regulation enforcement officers rescued 60 lacking kids and arrested eight suspects in a sweeping two-week initiative dubbed Operation Dragon Eye.
Led by the U.S. Marshal’s Workplace and coordinated with 20 businesses throughout Central Florida, the operation focused the restoration of critically lacking kids within the Tampa Bay space. The kids, aged 9 to 17, had been supplied with instant care, help companies, and secure housing upon rescue.
“This operation additional included follow-up help in hopes that these youth is not going to return to the streets to be additional victimized,” mentioned U.S. Marshal William Berger.
At a press convention on Monday, Florida Legal professional Normal James Uthmeier praised the collaborative effort.
“The actual heroes behind this operation are the regulation enforcement who constructed and executed this mission,” Uthmeier mentioned. “In case you victimize kids, you’re going to jail, finish of story.”
Uthmeier, a father of three, added, “Defending kids is my high precedence.”
The eight defendants arrested throughout the operation face a spread of expenses, together with human trafficking, youngster endangerment, drug possession, and drug trafficking.
The Florida Division of Kids and Households (DCF) performed a significant position by serving to form the operation’s restoration protocols, providing important data, and guaranteeing secure lodging and ongoing take care of the kids.
“Underneath the steadfast management of Governor DeSantis, the Florida Division of Kids and Households stays unrelenting relating to the safety, security, and well-being of a number of the most weak Floridians – our kids,” mentioned DCF Secretary Taylor Hatch.
Florida Division of Legislation Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass emphasised the broader affect: “60 youngsters saved. That quantity sends the message that Florida won’t ever be a secure place for traffickers.”
Glass additionally reaffirmed the state’s dedication to households nonetheless looking for their kids: “At FDLE, we are going to proceed to battle for individuals who can’t battle for themselves. And to any household nonetheless lacking their youngster, we are going to by no means cease looking out till we be certain they’re introduced residence safely.”
Officers say the success of Operation Dragon Eye underscores Florida’s dedication to fight human trafficking and shield its most weak residents.
