19 News follows U.S. Marshals in operation to find missing Akron teen

AKRON, Ohio (WOIO)- The U.S. Marshals Service, in a joint operation with Akron police and the Summit County Sheriff’s Office, successfully located a missing 15-year-old girl in Akron.

This operation, part of a three-week effort to find missing children, highlights the dedication of law enforcement to bring missing children home.

The search for the girl encountered several obstacles, including false leads and incorrect addresses.

19 News reporter Gabby Hart, who heads “The Missing” series, rode along with Assistant Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal Anne Murphy and U.S. Marshal Vinny Piccoli, head of the Missing Child Division.

Despite the setbacks, officers persisted, knocking on doors and talking to neighbors, determined to find any clues to the girl’s whereabouts.

A breakthrough came when Piccoli managed to contact the girl by phone, and she revealed her location.

Marshals immediately went to the location, Piccoli staying on the phone with the girl to ensure she remained in place until they arrived.

“We held our breath as they closed in,” said 19 News reporter Gabby Hart, who was on the scene. “A 15-year-old girl, finally safe.”

The girl was one of 32 children recovered during “Operation Homecoming,” many of whom were listed as runaways.

Assistant Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal Anne Murphy emphasized the importance of these efforts, noting that runaway situations can quickly become dangerous. “It’s important that we as law enforcement, and we as the community, and we as the media…continue to work these cases,” she said.

The operation underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to locate missing children and ensure their safety.