"Each child received victim advocacy services, medical support when necessary, and follow-up resources prior to being reunited with a legal guardian. Unfortunately, some of these children were identified as victims of various crimes, ranging from child sex trafficking to sexual assault."
"Dozens of missing minors - some as young as 14 and some of whom had been sexually assaulted or trafficked - have been located and rescued in Southern California and nearby states, authorities say."
"Riverside sheriff's officials said around 5,000 to 6,000 children run away or go missing each year in Riverside County, with a majority returning home shortly after leaving. Others, like some of those who were rescued, may fall victim to crime."
Operation Safe Return, a four-day law enforcement initiative from March 2-6, successfully located and rescued 37 missing children aged 14-17 across Southern California and nearby states. Over 50 children were identified as missing during the operation, with 13 cases remaining open. Seven individuals were arrested during the investigation. The operation was led by the U.S. Marshal Service and Riverside County sheriff's anti-human-trafficking task force, with support from federal, state, and local agencies plus victim advocacy groups. Rescued children received victim advocacy services, medical support, and follow-up resources before reunification with legal guardians. Some victims were identified as survivors of child sex trafficking and sexual assault. Authorities noted that 5,000-6,000 children go missing annually in Riverside County.
#human-trafficking #missing-children #law-enforcement-operation #child-exploitation #victim-services
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