Operation Soteria Shield wrapped up in April 2025, marking a powerful stand against online child exploitation throughout Texas.

 

The effort resulted in 244 arrests and the rescue of 109 children statewide.

 

More than 70 agencies—including the Dallas, Plano, Wylie, and Garland Police Departments—joined forces with the FBI Dallas Division and the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

 

Officers uncovered large amounts of illegal digital material, seizing terabytes of evidence from suspects’ devices now under forensic review.

 

These ongoing investigations could identify more victims and lead to further arrests.

 

Officials urge families to stay alert and use parental controls, stressing the importance of community vigilance in protecting kids from online predators.

 

The commitment to defending children and pursuing offenders remains stronger than ever.

The Philadelphia Police Department is seeking help to locate 14-year-old Kalise Gordon, last seen on November 17, 2025, around 2:00 p.m. near the 1600 block of North 15th Street.

 

Kalise is 5'3" tall, weighs about 115 pounds, and has brown eyes and black hair.

 

She was last seen wearing a black jacket and black pants.

 

Her disappearance has united the North Philadelphia community, with neighbors and local organizations joining forces to support search efforts.

 

The determination to bring Kalise home remains strong among residents.

 

Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Central Detectives at 215-686-3093 or call 911. Immediate tips could be vital to her safe return.

 

The police encourage everyone to remain vigilant and promptly report any details.

 

The community’s hope and commitment to finding Kalise have not wavered.

Elizabeth Wilder, age 16, has been missing from Newport News, Virginia, since December 17, 2025.

 

Described as last seen in a black coat with a fur-lined hood and three piercings in each ear, her whereabouts remain unknown.

 

The Newport News Police Department continues to investigate her disappearance and appeals for community assistance.

 

Residents are encouraged to report any information that could help bring Elizabeth home.

 

Her loved ones are anxious for her safety and hope for her prompt return.

 

Amid the search, the community is reminded of upcoming local events like the City Center’s Tree Lighting Ceremony and the Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s Handel’s Messiah at First Baptist Church—offering moments of unity and support.

 

Authorities urge anyone with tips to contact the Newport News Police Department.

 

Every effort from the community matters.

Newport News officials are ramping up the search for 17-year-old Lakayla Keyandra Thompson, missing since December 17, 2025.

 

She was last seen in a gray sweater and gray sweatpants.

 

Community members are actively distributing flyers and organizing search parties to find her.

 

The unified response highlights the determination to bring Lakayla home.

 

Police are urging anyone with tips to contact the Newport News Police Department right away.

 

Timely assistance could make a critical difference in Lakayla’s safe return.

 

Neighborhood support and vigilance remain essential as the search continues.

 

The community holds on to hope for her safe recovery.

Child trafficking in the U.S. is often misunderstood, masking the everyday realities endured by young victims.

 

Contrary to popular belief, most trafficked children are not abducted by strangers or moved across borders.

Many are exploited by acquaintances, partners, or even relatives, with traffickers relying on manipulation and emotional control rather than outright violence.

 

Boys and non-binary youth frequently face trafficking risks alongside girls, but their experiences are often ignored or doubted due to persistent stereotypes.

Many remain unseen by support systems, amplifying their vulnerability.

 

Victims rarely self-identify; stigma, trauma, and fear keep them silent.

Professionals outside specialized training may overlook subtle warning signs, resulting in missed intervention.

 

Operation Soteria Shield in April 2025 revealed extensive child exploitation, rescuing 109 children and arresting 244 suspects.

 

Breaking down myths, ensuring accurate awareness, and improving support access are crucial to safeguarding children.