Operation Statewide Shield Rescues 163 Kids | Jacksonville News

Florida just pulled off one of the largest child rescue operations in U.S. history, pulling 163 kids from dangerous situations across multiple states and even overseas in just five days. From kidnapping by family members to exploitation in foster care and prostitution, these children were finally freed — with Tampa Bay leading the charge, rescuing 46 kids thanks to community tips. Attorney General James Uthmeier vowed zero tolerance for predators, promising the harshest penalties, including death for child sex abusers. Three arrests followed in Tampa Bay on charges like interfering with custody and battery, but investigators are still hunting deeper into possible abuse networks and ringleaders. Kids rescued ranged from newborns to teens — all now getting critical support from a massive coalition of law enforcement, child welfare, and healthcare teams working together to heal and protect. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9a4ac4fb93198350