A recent report from KLAS-TV/Las Vegas has revealed that a search-and-rescue operation for missing children was successful in locating 14 individuals during the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix last weekend. While the focus of the event was on the racetrack, officials from F.R.E.E. International, a Vegas-based nonprofit organization, were vigilant in monitoring the crowd for any signs of missing children.
Michael Bartel, the founder of F.R.E.E. International, emphasized the prevalence of predators in the city and the increased risk of juveniles being sex-trafficked during large public events. Working in collaboration with the County School District Police (CCSDPD) and private security officers, the organization successfully identified and rescued the missing children.
Lieutenant Bryan Zink of CCSDPD expressed concern over the likelihood of juveniles being sex-trafficked during such events and highlighted the importance of proactive measures to safeguard vulnerable individuals.
Details about the rescued children were limited, including the number of children returned to their families. F.R.E.E. International intends to follow up with the families of the rescued children and provide them with holiday meals as part of their support efforts.
Despite the successful operation, a study published in “The Journal of Experimental Criminology” in 2019 found no statistically significant increase in crime, including sex trafficking, during the 2018 F1 Grand Prix in Austin, Texas.
Looking ahead, F.R.E.E. International plans to conduct a similar operation during Super Bowl LVIII at Allegiant Stadium in February. The organization urges anyone suspecting that their child is missing to contact the police immediately for assistance.
In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of F.R.E.E. International, CCSDPD, and private security officers led to the successful rescue of 14 missing children during the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. The organization remains committed to ensuring the safety and protection of vulnerable individuals at large public events, and their upcoming operation during the Super Bowl reinforces this dedication to safeguarding children.
