Florida’s Operation Statewide Shield Recovers 163 Children Across Continents

First on Fox: Florida’s Attorney General, James Uthmeier, announced a major success in recovering 163 children during Operation Statewide Shield. This multi-agency initiative spanned five continents, saving children ranging from 2 months old to 17 years old.

In collaboration with federal and international law enforcement agencies, Florida officials spent five days in mid-August tracking and rescuing missing children. Some were runaways, while others were abandoned, neglected, abused, or trafficked.

Uthmeier stated, “Many of these kids have been victimized by those who prey on the most vulnerable.” Three arrests were made related to the operation: Jayden Allen Harwood, Robert Ferral Allison, and Michael Corey Prescott.

Florida undertook its first statewide child-recovery effort with Operation Statewide Shield, marking the largest initiative of its kind in the state’s history. Thanks to the effort’s partners, these children now receive the care they need.

Law enforcement teams rescued children across various states, including Florida, Alabama, California, Ohio, New York, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, and Tennessee. Internationally, children were found in countries like Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Italy, Jamaica, and more.

Michael Prescott was arrested in Jacksonville, facing charges of lewd acts with a minor and aggravated assault. Prescott’s arrest stemmed from an active warrant for interference with child custody.

Robert Ferral Allison was apprehended by Lee County Sheriff’s Office, charged with lewd and lascivious battery on a young victim. Jayden Allen Harwood faced charges of interference in a child custody case and resisting officers.

Attorney General Uthmeier revealed that more investigations are underway, and additional arrests are anticipated. As children were rescued, they received comprehensive support from local law enforcement and various supportive services, helping to settle their cases.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement, alongside municipal law enforcement and federal partners, executed the operation, utilizing insights from past initiatives like Operation Dragon Eye. Various local sheriff’s offices also participated.