The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) led “Operation Northern Lights,” a landmark multi-agency initiative resulting in the recovery of 43 critically missing children across North Florida. The two-week operation, involving over 80 personnel from 25 agencies, targeted youth at risk of trafficking and exploitation. Recoveries spanned Florida, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana, with victims ranging from 18 months to 17 years old. The operation led to nine arrests and potential future trafficking charges. “This was the most successful missing child operation ever conducted in Northern Florida,” said Acting U.S. Marshal Greg Leljedal.