Ohio Faces Rise in Missing Child Cases: 2023 Report Reveals Shocking Statistics

Lina PortmanMay 25, 2024

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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost today released the 2023 Ohio Missing Children Clearinghouse Report, highlighting the state's efforts to address missing children cases. The report highlights both the successes and challenges faced by local law enforcement agencies.

Main findings:

Total number of missing people:
- In 2023, the information center has documented 22,374 people missing in Ohio, representing an increase of 1,757 cases compared to the previous year.
- Among these, 17,405 cases were specifically reports of missing children, marking a significant increase in the number of missing people. 1,950 cases of the previous year.
Reunification rate:
- The authorities reported a commendable result 98% reunification rate for missing children. At the end of the year, 17,033 missing children have been found safe and sound.
- Unfortunately, five missing children were found deceased in 2023.
Circumstances of missing persons entries:
- The annual report provides details on specific circumstances:
  - The runaways: A total of 9,469 casesThese were runaways, where a child leaves the house without permission and spends the night away.
  - Abductions by a non-custodial parent: There was 35 casesinvolving abduction by a non-custodial parent. In such cases, a parent, other family member, or other person acting on behalf of a parent keeps or hides a child, thereby depriving another person of custody or visitation rights.
  - Abductions by strangers: 15 casesinvolved a kidnapping by a stranger.
AMBER Alerts and Endangered Missing Children Alerts:
- Ohio law enforcement officials released 13 AMBER alerts thanks to Ohio's AMBER Alert plan in 2023, involving 17 children. Fortunately, 16 childrenwere found safe and sound, but one child is still missing.
- In addition, 10 Endangered Missing Children Alerts were issued, involving 12 childrenand all were fortunately recovered safely.