Success Stories

On October 14, 2026, an Amber Alert was issued for a baby girl, following concerns for her safety and well-being. The case involved serious child welfare concerns related to parental substance abuse and custody violations. The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) worked with law enforcement to address the situation and locate the child. A missing person report was filed with the Torrance Police Department. Fortunately, the baby was recovered on October 14, 2026, after a relative brought her to a police station. An emergency response social worker then picked her up and coordinated her placement. The child was subsequently connected with a safe placement plan to support her immediate needs. DCFS also identified the need for a referral for mental health services to support her well-being. The recovery prevented the situation from remaining unresolved and allowed child welfare professionals to take steps toward ensuring her safety. This case highlights the importance of collaboration among relatives, law enforcement, and child welfare professionals in protecting vulnerable children.

A successful recovery of a baby girl

In September 2026, FTC received a referral concerning Noah, a 10-year-old child involved in an active dependency case, who had been taken by his mother, outside California; and without the required notification. Through the quick coordination of law enforcement partners, efforts began immediately to locate Noah and ensure his safety. Investigators determined that Noah was in Nevada, allowing local law enforcement to conduct a welfare check and confirm his location. On September 15, 2026, Henderson Police Department safely took Noah into protective custody and coordinated his return to California. Noah was reunited with the support of DCFS and placed with a maternal relative in a safe and stable setting. This successful recovery demonstrates how timely action, collaboration, and dedicated professionals can make a critical difference in protecting vulnerable children and bringing them safely home.

A Successful Recovery: Noah’s Safe Return

After more than 11 years missing, Valeria, who was abducted in January 2015, was successfully recovered on July 3, 2026. Valeria was located after being stopped while crossing the U.S. border. Law enforcement identified her as a missing child, allowing her to be safely returned and placed in appropriate care. Her recovery brought an important resolution to a long-standing child abduction case that had remained open since 2015. Following her recovery, Valeria was connected with reunification therapy through Find The Children to support her transition and well-being after years of separation and uncertainty. She is successfully receiving treatment and continuing to receive support as she moves forward. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of continued searches, collaboration among agencies and law enforcement, and access to therapeutic services after a child is recovered. Valeria’s safe recovery represents a meaningful success and a new chapter in her journey toward stability, healing, and reunification.

A Successful Recovery: Valeria’s Safe Return