WQIO Ohio's Super Station
The U.S. Marshals Service says 79 missing and endangered children have been located across Ohio during what officials describe as the largest missing-child operation in the state’s history.
Operation Meridian was conducted throughout August in coordination with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The children ranged in age from 6 to 17 and were reported missing under a variety of circumstances, including suspected sex trafficking, physical and emotional abuse, neglect, running away and other forms of endangerment.
U.S. Marshal Michael Black said the agency was able to use resources and investigative methods normally associated with fugitive investigations to help locate missing and endangered children.
Investigators worked cases throughout Ohio, with some leads extending outside the state.
Among the cases was the search for two sisters, ages 13 and 16, who had been reported missing from the Columbus area. The younger girl was located in a hidden basement crawlspace at a home in Lockbourne, while her older sister was found at a restaurant on Columbus’ West Side.
Authorities also located a 16-year-old Toledo girl who had previously been identified as a possible human trafficking victim. An adult man found with her is under investigation.
The U.S. Marshals Service says the operation demonstrates the importance of cooperation among law enforcement agencies when searching for children who may be in danger.
The agency says the 79 children have now been located and recovered through Operation Meridian.
