Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the outcome of “Operation Home for the Holidays,” a statewide effort led by the U.S. Marshals Service that resulted in the recovery or safe location of 122 missing children. The operation, which is described as one of the largest child-recovery initiatives in U.S. history, surpassed the scale of an earlier operation known as Operation Dragon Eye and extended beyond Florida to nine other states.
The coordinated effort took place over two weeks and involved law enforcement agencies across Tampa Bay, Orlando, Jacksonville, Fort Myers, and other regions. Of the 122 children recovered, 57 were found in Tampa Bay, 14 in Orlando, 22 in Jacksonville, and 29 in Fort Myers. The children ranged from 23 months to 17 years old and had faced various forms of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or criminal exposure.
Attorney General James Uthmeier stated: “Thanks to one of the single largest child-rescue operations in U.S. history, 122 missing children are safe. This operation highlights the strength and diligence of Florida’s Law Enforcement. I am deeply grateful for everyone that made Operation Home for the Holidays a massive success. Many of these kids have been victimized in unspeakable ways. We will prosecute their abusers to the fullest extent of the law.”
United States Marshal for the Middle District of Florida Bill Berger said: “The United States Marshals Service is proud to stand with our partners across the state of Florida in pursuit of the safety and welfare of our children. This operation was built based upon the wants and needs of our communities. We are honored to play a leading role in answering those calls.”
FDLE Deputy Commissioner Vaden Pollard commented: “This operation reflects the power of strong partnerships and a shared commitment under Governor DeSantis’ leadership to protect Florida’s children. By gathering critical intelligence, pursuing every lead, and working together with our federal, state, and local partners, we achieved a unified mission and delivered meaningful results—122 children and youth are now safe, and that is a victory for our entire state.”
Department of Children and Families Secretary Taylor N. Hatch said: “Operation Home for the Holidays is a testament to what we can accomplish when we come together with urgency and shared purpose to recover Florida’s most vulnerable children. Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, DCF continues to seize opportunities to collaborate with local, state, and federal partners to maximize our impact—this time, bringing more than 120 children to safety.”
Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Secretary Matthew J. Walsh added: “Under the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, DJJ is proud to support the recovery of critically missing and endangered youth through Operation Home for the Holidays. Through collaboration with our state, federal, and local partners, we were able to locate these youth and connect them with essential services. We are grateful for this opportunity to strengthen our shared commitment to the Governor’s mission of keeping Florida’s communities safe.”
Six felony arrests were made during this initiative with further charges expected as investigations continue. The Office of Statewide Prosecution within Attorney General Uthmeier’s office will handle several felony cases arising from this operation—including allegations such as sexual battery on a child and custodial interference.
Authorities reported that real-time intelligence was used alongside field operations throughout Central Florida during this multi-disciplinary task force effort. Victim advocates worked closely with law enforcement officers so rescued children could receive immediate access to services focused on their well-being.
