Authorities say 160 missing children and teenagers have been found across New York as a result of coordinated, multi-agency recovery operations.
The effort, sponsored by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Missing Persons Clearinghouse and the National Child Protection Task, includes three large-scale operations in Westchester County, Erie County, and the Capital Region.
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Most recently, 43 children were discovered after a three-day search operation in Westchester County. Earlier searches in Erie County and the Capital Region yielded more than 115 missing children combined. According to state officials, several of the children were classified as runaways and were at risk of exploitation, endangerment, or violence.
Children at heightened risk
Officials underlined that runaway children are especially vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation.
“Many people don’t realize that children who run away are among the most vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation, so urgency and coordination are critical,” said Kevin Branzetti, co-founder and CEO of the National Child Protection Task Force.
According to DCJS, the youngsters found during the most recent operation were between the ages of 8 and 17 when they were reported missing.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James stated that investigations into missing and exploited children are complex yet vital.
“Interagency operations such as this are crucial, and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to safeguard the children of New York,” James told the crowd.
Missing children across New York
Thousands of missing children reports have been filed around the state, prompting the concerted efforts.
Last year, 10,629 minors under the age of 18 were reported missing to police across New York. By the end of 2025, 1,079 instances remained ongoing, accounting for approximately 10% of the year’s reports.
According to police, 94% of all children and teenagers reported missing in 2025 were runaways.
“Every missing child case represents a young person who deserves to be safe, supported and seen,” DCJS Commissioner Rossana Rosado said in a news release. “This operation brought together an extraordinary group of law enforcement, nonprofit and private partners to share information, pursue new leads and connect children with the services they need.”
