Child Found Safe After Massive Search Effort in DeSoto County
Saturday residents near NE Highway 70 in DeSoto County may have noticed an increased law enforcement presence and helicopters in the area. The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) mobilized a large-scale search operation to assist a family in finding their missing two-year-old child.
The child disappeared from their residence, prompting a search across 600 acres of challenging terrain, including cow pastures, barns, wooded areas, and large ponds. Despite their best efforts, the parents and family realized they needed additional help and called law enforcement for assistance.
In response, all available DCSO personnel, including on- and off-duty staff, joined the effort. Specialized teams, such as the Mounted Posse, Agriculture Unit, Drone Team, and Dive Team, were deployed. Neighboring agencies also lent their support, with the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office providing air support, the Hardee County Sheriff’s Office contributing deputies and their Drone Unit, and correctional institutions from both Hardee and DeSoto Counties sending K-9 tracking teams and mounted units.
Thanks to the coordinated efforts of these dedicated teams, the search ended on a joyous note. The child was found safe, much to the relief of the family and the entire community. Sheriff Potter expressed heartfelt gratitude to the DCSO staff and all assisting agencies, acknowledging their essential role in bringing the child home safely.
