Florida authorities have announced the recovery of 163 missing children during Operation Statewide Shield, a five-day statewide effort focused on locating and safely bringing missing children home.

The children ranged in age from 2 months to 17 years old. Officials said recoveries took place across Florida, as well as in six other U.S. states, one U.S. territory and 12 countries. Many of the children had reportedly experienced abuse, neglect, exploitation or exposure to other criminal activity.

The operation involved multiple law-enforcement agencies and child-welfare organizations. After being located, children who needed ᴀssistance were connected with medical providers, social services, victim advocates and other support professionals.

Authorities also said the operation generated three felony cases, while other investigations remain ongoing.

For the families involved, the most important part of the operation is simple: 163 children were located and brought to safety.

👉 Source: Florida Department of Law Enforcement — Operation Statewide Shield 