TAMPA, Fla. – Florida officials announced the successful completion of “Operation Home for the Holidays,” a massive rescue effort that safely recovered 122 children across multiple states, making it one of the largest child-recovery operations in U.S. history.
The two-week operation, led by the U.S. Marshals Service, spanned multiple Florida cities, including Tampa Bay, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Fort Myers, while also extending into nine other states. The rescued children ranged in age from 23 months to 17 years old.
“Thanks to one of the single largest child-rescue operations in U.S. history, 122 missing children are safe,” Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said. “This operation highlights the strength and diligence of Florida’s Law Enforcement.”
[WATCH: Allegations of child exploitation on Roblox prompt Florida investigation, lawsuits]
Recovery efforts across Florida
The operation achieved significant results across Florida’s major cities:
- 57 children rescued in the Tampa Bay region
- 14 children recovered in Orlando
- 22 children found in Jacksonville
- 29 children saved in Fort Myers
The initiative also led to six felony arrests, with additional charges expected as investigations continue.
Multi-agency collaboration
More than 200 partners participated in the operation, which emphasized rapid access to child-focused services. U.S. Marshal for the Middle District of Florida Bill Berger highlighted the collaborative nature of the mission: “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.”
[WATCH: Operation Home for the Holidays news conference]
Attorney General James Uthmeier joins U.S. Marshal Berger in Tampa to announce largest child rescue mission in history. https://t.co/PHxdn3aFRT
— Attorney General James Uthmeier (@AGJamesUthmeier) November 17, 2025
Comprehensive support services
The operation incorporated victim advocates and child welfare specialists who worked alongside law enforcement to provide immediate resources to the rescued children. Many of the recovered youth had experienced various levels of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or exposure to criminal activity.
Ongoing legal action
The Attorney General’s Office of Statewide Prosecution is pursuing multiple felony cases resulting from the operation, including charges related to sexual battery on a child and custodial interference.
The operation surpassed the scale and success of Operation Dragon Eye, conducted earlier this year, demonstrating Florida’s increased commitment to combating child trafficking and ensuring child safety.