Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the rescue of 122 children in what is being called the largest child-recovery operation in American history during a press conference in Tampa this week. The initiative, dubbed “Operation Home for the Holidays," spanned across Tampa Bay, Orlando, Jacksonville, Fort Myers, and several other states over two weeks.
"Protecting our kids, keeping them safe, preventing them from being extorted and endangered - that's what it's all about," Uthmeier said. "That's why we go to work every day, that's why we do what we do. There is no greater calling when it comes to law enforcement."
According to a release from the attorney general, the successful operation tracked down vulnerable youth throughout Central Florida, including 57 children in the Tampa Bay region, 14 in Orlando, 22 in Jacksonville, and 29 in Fort Myers. Other recoveries were found in nine states.
The U.S. Marshals Service led the operation. The investigation follows another successful child recovery operation announced by Uthmeier in June.
“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,” United States Marshal for the Middle District of Florida Bill Berger said. “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.”
Specifically, victims in the recovery effort ranged from 23 months to 17 years old. Uthmeier's office also noted several had signs of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or exposure to other criminal activity.
The initiative has led to six felony arrests, including some for sexual battery. Other charges are expected as the investigation continues.
Several other officials joined Uthmeier during the announcement, including Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Vaden Pollard, Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Secretary Matthew J. Walsh, and Department of Children and Families Secretary Taylor N. Hatch.
The initiative led to six felony arrests, including some for sexual battery. Other charges are expected as the investigation continues.
"If you come into Florida and you want to lay a finger on our kids - if you want to prey upon them, if you want to groom them, if you want to abuse them, everybody up here is coming for you with everything we've got," Uthmeier said during the press conference. "We are going to lock you up for as long as possible, and where eligible for child sex battery, we will indeed seek the death penalty."
