News Summary
In a remarkable collaborative effort, federal, state, and local agencies recovered 60 critically missing children from the Tampa Bay area during Operation Dragon Eye. The operation, spanning two weeks, focused on at-risk children aged 9 to 17, highlighting the severe risks many face, including human trafficking and abuse. The operation resulted in multiple arrests and showcased the vital need for ongoing support and services for these vulnerable youth.
Tampa Bay, FL – In a landmark operation named Operation Dragon Eye, federal, state, and local agencies successfully recovered 60 “critically missing” children from the Tampa Bay area, marking it as one of the most successful missing child recovery operations in United States history. The operation, which spanned over a two-week period, focused on children aged 9 to 17 from Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties, showcasing the extensive collaboration among more than 100 personnel from 20 different agencies.
The term “critically missing” refers to children at high risk for violence, substance abuse, sexual exploitation, exposure to crime, or domestic violence. The disturbing cases uncovered during the operation included several young pregnant girls, with at least one case involving a girl carrying the child of her trafficker. The operation has been recognized for providing significant hope for the futures of the recovered children.
Eight suspects have been arrested amid the operation, facing serious charges including human trafficking, child endangerment, drug possession, and custodial interference. Arrest bonds for these individuals varied widely, with some facing bonds as high as $250 million. Local law enforcement agencies involved in Operation Dragon Eye included the Tampa Police Department, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, St. Petersburg Police Department, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office.
Medical and mental health care for the recovered children was provided by BayCare, while various organizations, such as More Too Life and Redefining Refuge, supported the operation’s objectives and contributed to ongoing care for the children. All recovered individuals were connected with healthcare and social services to ensure their reintegration and support moving forward.
The collaborative effort was praised by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, who emphasized the importance of teamwork across various government levels in achieving the operation’s remarkable success. Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass acknowledged the emotional toll on investigators and advocates while stressing the ongoing need to combat human trafficking in the area.
U.S. Marshal Bill Berger referred to the offenders as “leeches,” expressing concern that they would attempt to reconnect with the children without proper intervention. This call to action underscores the necessity of continuing efforts to prevent human trafficking and protect vulnerable youth.
Dr. Katherine Gomez, representing the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, highlighted the potential for positive changes in the lives of the recovered children and discussed the importance of connecting them to existing support services. The St. Petersburg Police Department reported that a significant number of the recovered children—11 in total—were from St. Petersburg, with two arrests made in the area, including one linked to alleged human trafficking.
Operation Dragon Eye was publicly announced during a press conference held on June 23, 2025, drawing attention to the pressing issues faced by critically missing children and the work being done to address them. The comprehensive strategies implemented in this operation not only aimed to recover at-risk youths but also provided a multifaceted approach to ensure their long-term safety and well-being.
As the battle against human trafficking continues, both law enforcement and community organizations remain dedicated to protecting vulnerable children and providing them with essential resources for their futures.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 News
- WTSP News
- Florida Phoenix
- Wikipedia: Human Trafficking in the United States
- WFTV News
- Google Search: Florida Child Rescue Operations
- First Coast News
- Google Scholar: Operation Dragon Eye
- WFLA News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Human Trafficking
