TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida Lawyer Normal James Uthmeier introduced that 43 lacking kids had been safely recovered as a part of a multi-agency effort referred to as Operation Northern Lights, bringing the full variety of kids rescued statewide in 2025 to greater than 300.
The operation, led by the U.S. Marshals Service within the Northern District of Florida, was performed in partnership with Homeland Safety Investigations, the Florida Workplace of the Lawyer Normal, and a number of native, state, and federal legislation enforcement companies.
The coordinated effort occurred from Dec. 1–12 and resulted within the restoration of youngsters and teenagers ranging in age from 1 to 17 years outdated. Recoveries occurred throughout Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
“Our workplace was honored to accomplice with U.S. Marshal Greg Leljedal and legislation enforcement companies at each degree to carry 43 lacking kids to security, some as younger as 18 months outdated,” Uthmeier mentioned. “We are going to pursue the strongest doable costs in opposition to anybody who positioned these kids in hurt’s manner.”
Authorities reported that 9 arrests had been made through the operation, primarily involving costs of interference with baby custody. Investigators additionally recognized two potential human trafficking instances, which stay underneath lively investigation.
Statewide Prosecutor Brad McVay mentioned the operation underscores the significance of collaboration amongst companies.
“Operation Northern Lights exhibits what could be completed when companies work collectively towards a single mission — defending kids,” McVay mentioned. “These recoveries replicate the relentless dedication of legislation enforcement throughout native, state, and federal ranges.”
The Workplace of Statewide Prosecution supplied ongoing authorized help all through the operation, helping with warrants, recoveries, and arrests to make sure all actions had been carried out lawfully and effectively, officers mentioned.
Authorities emphasised that investigations linked to the operation are ongoing, and extra costs could also be introduced as instances progress.
