On May 25, 2017, Roger C. Stanton, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Birmingham Field Office, reaffirmed the FBI’s continuing support of National Missing Children’s Day, observed on May 25th of each year.

In 1983, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed May 25th as National Missing Children’s Day. (Proclamation) Each year, the Department of Justice (DOJ) commemorates Missing Children’s Day with a ceremony honoring the heroic and exemplary efforts of agencies, organizations, and individuals to protect children.

Missing Children’s Day is dedicated to encouraging parents, guardians, caregivers, and others concerned with the well-being of children to make child safety a priority. It serves as a reminder to continue our efforts to reunite missing children with their families and an occasion to honor those dedicated to this noble cause. More information can be found at: https://www.ojjdp.gov/missingchildrensday/.

In 1932, the FBI was given jurisdiction under the “Lindbergh Law” to immediately investigate any reported mysterious disappearance or kidnapping involving a child of “tender age”—usually 12 or younger. However, the FBI can become involved with any missing child under the age of 18 as an assisting agency to the local police department. There does not have to be a ransom demand, and the child does not have to cross the state lines or be missing for 24 hours. Research indicates the quicker the reporting of the disappearance or abduction, the more likely the successful outcome in returning the child unharmed.

The FBI is fully committed to support local law enforcement partners investigating missing and endangered children. More information regarding these children can be found on the FBI’s website at: www.fbi.gov/wanted/kidnap.

Anyone with information regarding a missing child should contact your local FBI field office, your local police department, or call 9-1-1. Tips may also be submitted to the FBI through tips.fbi.gov.

See also: Related story posted to FBI.gov: https://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/recovering-missing-kids.