Dozens of missing minors, some as young as 14 and some of whom had been sexually assaulted or trafficked, have been located and rescued in Southern California and nearby states, authorities say. State leaders are celebrating a successful four-day operation aimed at combating human trafficking in the region, which led to multiple rescues and arrests.
Dubbed Operation Safe Return, federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies spread out across the Greater Los Angeles area, as well as neighboring states including Arizona and Nevada, in search of missing children. The operation took place from March 2 to March 6.
During this period, more than 50 children between the ages of 14 and 17 were identified as missing. Authorities confirmed that at least 37 of these children were recovered, while 13 cases remain open. At least seven individuals were arrested in connection with the operation. Investigators have not released the names of those arrested amid ongoing investigations.
The operation was led by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Riverside County Sheriff’s anti-human-trafficking task force, with assistance from other law enforcement agencies. Victim advocacy and community safety groups also played a vital role in supporting the effort.
“Each child received victim advocacy services, medical support when necessary, and follow-up resources prior to being reunited with a legal guardian,” stated the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office. They further noted, “Unfortunately, some of these children were identified as victims of various crimes, ranging from child sex trafficking to sexual assault.”
Riverside sheriff officials highlighted that around 5,000 to 6,000 children run away or go missing each year in Riverside County. While the majority return home shortly after leaving, others, like some of those rescued during Operation Safe Return, may fall victim to crime.
California Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta praised the operation in an official statement.
“We will never stop fighting to protect California children and bring them home,” Bonta said. “Through close collaboration between state and federal authorities, we were able to identify, locate, and safely recover 37 vulnerable children while holding those responsible for their exploitation accountable.”
Governor Newsom added, “Every child deserves to be safe, protected, and given the chance to live their life free from exploitation. California will continue to stand with victims and survivors, protect our most vulnerable, and do everything in our power to bring every child home safely.”
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-03-10/37-teens-rescued-7-arrested-human-trafficking-southern-california-nearby-states
