NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — All NewsAugust 25, 2026Hillsborough
Florida law enforcement rescues 163 missing children in Operation Statewide Shield
A statewide task force rescued 163 missing children, ranging from 2 months to 17 years old, and arrested three individuals during a five-day multi-agency operation. The initiative, led by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, conducted investigations across seven Florida regions and coordinated with authorities in six U.S. states and 12 foreign countries.
Read the full story at Fox 13 News (WTVT) — All NewsWhy It Matters
This operation represents the first statewide effort of its kind in Florida, resulting in the recovery of 163 minors and the initiation of ongoing criminal investigations into trafficking networks.
Key Facts
- 163 missing children were recovered during the operation.
- The children ranged in age from 2 months to 17 years old.
- Three individuals were arrested during the operation.
- Regional recovery totals: 46 in Tampa Bay, 41 in Miami, 32 in Jacksonville, 21 in Orlando, 12 in Fort Myers, 8 in Pensacola, and 3 in Tallahassee.
- The operation spanned six U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and 12 foreign countries.
- Michael Prescott was charged with three counts of lewd and lascivious acts with a minor, felony battery, and aggravated assault.
- Robert Ferral Allison was charged with lewd and lascivious battery on a victim aged 12 to 16.
- Jayden Allen Harwood was charged with interference in a child custody case and resisting officers.
- Recovered children were transported to specialized hubs for medical and social services.
- The investigation lasted five days.
Who's Mentioned
personRobert Ferral Allison“Arrested in Lee County on Aug. 20”personMichael Prescott“Arrested in Jacksonville on Aug. 21”personRita Peters“Special Counsel for Human Trafficking”personJayden Allen Harwood“Arrested on custody interference charges”personJames Uthmeier“Florida Attorney General”organizationFlorida Department of Law Enforcement“Lead agency for the operation”