Resources for Searching Families

The search for a missing child is one of the most stressful times a family can experience. Time is critical. Families should immediately call 911, and file a report with the following organizations:

• Local law enforcement
• The State Clearinghouse for Missing and Exploited Children in the state of legal residence where the child lives (US),
• The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (US) and/or the Canadian Royal Mounted Police (Canada), and
• The NCIC database (nationally managed by the FBI) but accessed through local law enforcement once they file their missing child report. It is very important that parents make sure that their local law enforcement has listed their missing child in the NCIC by receiving at least the case number of the report and preferably a copy of the report.

AMECO recommends that parents and/or guardians of missing children keep a log of information and contacts as they work with different agencies to search for their child. Make sure to pass on ALL information to law enforcement.

Because child abduction is a traumatic and incapacitating event, parents should contact the nearest AMECO member agency for guidance, support and assistance in their search for their missing child. Searching for a missing child can be an extremely complicated and difficult process. Get Help Now.