The U.S. Marshals Service, in coordination with multiple federal, state, and local agencies, carried out what is now considered the most successful missing child recovery mission in its history.
Named *Operation Dragon-Eye*, the two-week initiative focused on locating and rescuing critically missing children across Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties. According to the USMS, a total of 60 children were either recovered or safely located. What set this operation apart was its comprehensive approach: the rescued children, aged 9 to 17, were not only found but also given immediate physical and psychological care.
William Berger, U.S. Marshal for the Middle District of Florida, emphasized the unique nature of the mission, which included ongoing support to help prevent these children from returning to dangerous environments where they could be re-victimized. The USMS classifies “critically missing” youth as those at risk of violent crimes or who are exposed to dangers like drug abuse, sexual exploitation, and domestic violence.
“This wasn’t just a federal operation—it was a collective community effort,” said Mario Price, Deputy in Charge for the U.S. Marshals Service. The initiative was driven by three key goals: to recover missing youth, provide them with essential support and appropriate placement, and stop those who exploit vulnerable children.
Many of the rescued minors were victims of trafficking. According to Marshal Berger, several of the eight people arrested during the operation were controlling more than one child. “We used to call them pimps—now we call them what they truly are: human traffickers and criminals,” Berger stated.
The arrested suspects are facing serious charges including human trafficking, child endangerment, drug-related offenses, and custodial interference. Berger noted that these individuals were knowingly targeting minors, with offenders often in their 30s or 40s, while the victims ranged from 9 to 17 years old.
The operation didn’t just recover children; it also resulted in significant arrests. For instance, the St. Petersburg Police Department recovered 11 missing juveniles and arrested two individuals, one of whom is facing human trafficking charges.
“This operation highlights the power of partnership,” said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercow. “These recoveries and arrests demonstrate our firm commitment to protecting our most vulnerable residents.”