This operation resulted in the location of 71 children reported missing as runaways to police in Albany, Schenectady, and Troy. The operation brought together more than 60 local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private partners to collaborate and provide critical investigative support. During the three-day operation, partners worked to explore new leads, review case notes, and leverage technology to find children who are at risk of endangerment, exploitation, and harm.

 

"At NCPTF, our commitment is simple: Find. Listen. Help. Every missing child is at risk, regardless of how they are classified—runaway, abducted, or missing. And every child deserves urgency, care, and action. Time is critical in every missing child case, and the damage of prolonged missing is immeasurable. Whether a child is missing for an hour, a day, or a month, the longer they are gone, the greater the risk to their innocence and safety. This week we helped another community better protect its most vulnerable children—not just today, but for the future. Together, along with the Missing Persons Clearinghouse, we are creating a lasting system of rapid response, prevention, and support,” said Kevin Branzetti, National Child Protection Task Force Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer.

This is the second operation led by staff of the DCJS Missing Persons Clearinghouse and the NCPTF. The first operation took place in Erie County, resulting in the location of 47 children reported missing as runways to police departments in Buffalo and Amherst. NCPTF will host three Missing Child Rescue Operations nationwide this year and plans to return to New York in early 2026.

 

Click here to read the full press release from The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).