Held between the old and new capitol buildings, the annual event is an opportunity to remember Florida’s past and present missing children as well as recognize the state’s efforts in the child protection arena. Governor Crist said:
“ Today’s ceremony is an important time to send prayers and support to the families of Florida’s missing children. We must remain vigilant in our efforts to ensure the safety of our young people, and work together to provide law enforcement and volunteers the necessary resources and tools needed to bring our children home safely.”
Thomas DeLeon of Old Kings Elementary School in Flagler Beach was among the recipients of the 2010 Florida Missing Children Awards. He received the Department of Justice Poster Contest Recognition, for his drawing which artfully shows the use of a variety of investigative tools in the effort to bring missing children home safely:
During 2009, approximately 41,154 incidents of missing children were reported missing to law enforcement agencies throughout Florida.
Amber Alerts have aided in the rescue of 52 children, including one this year to date.
FDLE continues to invite the public to sign up to receive e-mail alerts containing information on missing and abducted children.
Citizens and businesses can sign up to receive Missing Child Alerts and Amber Alerts via e-mail or text message by visiting www.MissingChildrenAlert.com.
For more information, or to view photos of missing children, please visit www.fdle.state.fl.us or contact the FDLE Missing Endangered Persons Clearinghouse at 1-888-FL MISSING (1-888-356-4774).
