US Marshals Service: Protecting Communities and Recovering Missing Children in 2025

America’s Oldest Federal Law Enforcement Agency in Action

The U.S. Marshals Service, serving as the enforcement arm of the federal courts, is involved in virtually every federal law enforcement initiative. In 2025, the agency has demonstrated its crucial role in maintaining public safety through several significant operations.

Landmark Achievement in Child Protection

In a groundbreaking development, the U.S. Marshals in Florida led Operation DRAGON EYE, which successfully recovered or safely located 60 critically missing children across the state. This initiative is being hailed as ‘the most successful missing child operation in USMS history’.

The operation had three primary objectives: recovering critically missing youth, providing them with essential services including appropriate placement, and deterring exploitation. The operation resulted in eight arrests, including charges of human trafficking, child endangerment, narcotics possession, and custodial interference. The USMS defines ‘critically missing’ children as those at risk of crimes of violence or those with other elevated risk factors such as substance abuse, sexual exploitation, crime exposure, or domestic violence.

Presidential Inauguration Security

In January 2025, approximately 380 Soldiers from the Virginia and Pennsylvania National Guard were deputized by the U.S. Marshal Service for the 60th Presidential Inauguration in Washington, D.C. About 8,000 National Guard service members from approximately 40 states and territories provided critical support such as crowd management, traffic control points, CBRN response, civil disturbance response and sustainment operations. Their expertise and seamless collaboration with interagency partners helped ensure a safe and peaceful transition of power during this historic event.

Recent Leadership Changes

The agency is undergoing a leadership transition with the nomination of Gadyaces ‘Gady’ Serralta as the next Director of the United States Marshals Service (USMS). Serralta brings over 34 years of law enforcement experience to the role, having spent the last six years as the U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Florida.

Ongoing Commitment to Public Safety

The USMS continues to rely on public cooperation, encouraging citizens to provide tips on wanted fugitives, registered sex offenders not residing at correct addresses, potential threats to the federal judiciary, or USMS Supported missing child cases. This collaborative approach between law enforcement and the community remains crucial to the agency’s success in maintaining public safety.