Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ) commended the U.S. Marshals for locating and rescuing 31 Arizona children who had gone missing in a social media post.
Arizona's Family describes how the Marshals conducted Operation Desert Dawn from April 13th to May 1st, where they were able to find 20 missing minors and locate 11 others. Those rescued include two girls suspected to have been sexually trafficked, an 11-year-old girl with mental health concerns, a homeless 16-year-old, and a 17-year-old who had been missing for 18 months.
"This operation was about protecting children who were in vulnerable and dangerous situations," said Van Bayless, Acting U.S. Marshal for Arizona, in a statement. "Each child we located represents a young life removed from the risk of exploitation, abuse, or worse. Through the dedication of our partners, these children now have the opportunity to return to safety and begin moving forward."
Rep. Biggs responded to the story, writing on X, "We appreciate the men and women of the U.S. Marshals Service, who are focused on rescuing our most vulnerable children."
"These efforts send a significant message to our young people, that they will not be forgotten by their government in their darkest hours," Rep. Biggs added.
In March, State Senator Shawnna Bolick's (R-2) Senate Bill 1416 passed the Senate, which requires police to report missing children to state and national databases more quickly, immediately notify the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and issue public alerts through media and social platforms without delay.
"When a child goes missing, time matters. Delays cost lives," Bolick said. "SB 1416 ensures that law enforcement has clear, enforceable requirements to act immediately, share information quickly, and engage the public right away."
Last May, State Representatives Walt Blackman (R-7) and Teresa Martinez (R-16) brought attention to the shockingly high rates of missing and possibly trafficked Native American women, urging for a stronger federal response.
