Author: Isabella Casapao
Published: 10:47 AM EDT June 23, 2025
Updated: 5:49 PM EDT June 23, 2025
TAMPA, Fla. — Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced a multiagency operation that led to the safe recovery of 60 children, many of whom were reported missing, and the arrests of eight people in what the United States Marshals Service calls the largest child rescue operation in American history.
“We are here to announce the most successful completion of the largest child rescue operation, not just in Florida history, but in the United States history,” Uthmeier said.
Uthmeier announced the success of "Operation Dragon Eye" alongside partnering federal, state and local law enforcement agencies during a news conference Monday morning in Tampa.
"Protecting our kids and keeping Florida the safest state to raise a family is our number one priority," Uthmeier said. "Today is a result of the hard work to deliver on that promise."
Operation Dragon Eye focused on finding children who were missing, endangered or victims of human trafficking in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties. The rescued children ranged in age from nine to 17 years old.
The operation took place over two weeks and involved more than 100 people from 20 different agencies.
Uthmeier said many of the children were in "critical danger" and at risk of trafficking.
"Many of these kids have been through painful, disastrous situations," he said. "But at least today we've rescued them and we now can work towards recovery."
Authorities said eight adults were charged with crimes ranging from human trafficking to child endangerment, along with drug charges, as a result of the operation. The suspects were given bonds ranging from no bond to $250 million.
Behind each statistic, officials emphasized, is a story — and a child who now has a second chance.
“This is what it's all about. This is why we do the job,” Uthmeier said.
During the operation, authorities identified at least 26 rescued children who had been reported missing to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. They've received immediate care efforts, including trauma-informed support, housing and mental health services.
https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/news/crime/missing-florida-children-rescued-operation-dragon-eye-human-trafficking/77-991d808b-7df3-4653-a818-c6e4db70cadf