Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Offers Guidance on Missing Persons Cases
Jacksonville, Fla. — As part of its ongoing Unsolved series, the Jacksonville area has focused on missing persons cases throughout November. At the heart of this issue, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) is aiming to raise awareness and provide resources for families affected when someone goes missing.
Understanding Missing Persons Cases
Sgt. Michael Monts, who leads the Missing Persons Unit at the JSO, explained, “Most people can’t leave without leaving a trace of something.” This statement captures the challenge faced by detectives in these unique cases. Unlike typical criminal investigations that often begin with a body or clear evidence, missing persons investigations start with little to no information.
In 2023 alone, JSO’s Missing Persons Unit handled 3,388 cases, but currently maintains only one open case out of these. The cases range widely, including runaways, missing children, individuals with cognitive disabilities who may wander, and adults who simply cut off contact with their families. Despite these high numbers, the unit has been able to close many cases over the years, reporting only 75 cold cases since the consolidation of policing in the 1960s.
Resources for Families of Missing Persons
The JSO urges families, especially those with members who have cognitive impairments, to take proactive steps. For example, they offer scent preservation kits at no cost. These kits include a cloth and a jar to collect a person’s scent, which can be invaluable for trained K-9 units in locating a missing person. Remarkably, the scent can last up to 10 years.
Many are surprised to learn that there is no waiting period to report someone missing. Monts emphasized the importance of reporting immediately if a loved one goes missing. “Get the information out there. Share it with your neighbors and friends,” he advised. Timely action could lead to critical tips that help bring someone home.
Voluntary Identification Programs
Residents in Duval County can enroll in a program called R.E.V.A.M.P Duval. This voluntary identification program assists in locating individuals who may have cognitive or memory impairments and are at risk of wandering off. Should someone in the registry be reported missing, their information is quickly shared with police and rescue personnel, giving them essential insights into the person’s history, frequent locations, and medical conditions.
This streamlined communication goal is to reduce the time needed to gather critical information for first responders, which can be vital in urgent situations.
How to Sign Up
Conclusion
In moments of crisis, such as when a loved one goes missing, every minute counts. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office advocates for community awareness and immediate action. By utilizing available resources and remaining vigilant, families can better equip themselves to handle these distressing situations. Remember, the sooner a missing person is reported, the higher the chances of bringing them back home safely.
