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MISSING PERSONS

According to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) database in the United States, approximately 600,000 people are reported missing annually  with children accounting for about about 32% and 18 - 21 year olds accounting for 10% of these people. It is important to note that not all missing person cases are reported to NamUs or to law enforcement, and the actual number of missing persons in the US may be higher than what is reported. Of this number an average of 1% will remain missing. 

MISSING PERSONS (Who are missing persons?)

A missing person in anyone who is reported missing to law enforcement authorities, whose whereabouts are unknown. Missing person cases may involve criminal activity while others may involve individuals who have chosen to disappear for personal reasons such as familial and / or metal health issues. However, regardless of the reason for ones disappearance it is crucial to investigate every case thoroughly and do everything possible to locate the missing person and ensure their safety. 

TYPES (What types of missing persons are there?)

 

INVOLUNTARY

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Abduction

Abduction is considered involuntary and occurs with both children and adults. It is a non-consensual act in which a person is taken away against their will. It is often a continuing offense where the victim is taken from one place to another. Examples of abduction can include a stranger taking a child from a playground, a parent abducting their child in violation of a custody order, or someone being forced into  a vehicle against their will. It is important to note that abduction is a serious crime and can result in severe legal consequences for the perpetrator.

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Kidnapping

Kidnapping is an involuntary act in which a person is taken away against their will, and it can occur with both children and adults. Kidnapping is often violent and seeks some type of gain, which could be financial, political, sexual, or some other motive.  Examples of kidnapping could include cartel, gang, or mob kidnappings, where individuals are taken for ransom or other purposes, as well as cases  involving jaded and violent lovers or past lovers.

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Missing in Action (MIA)

Missing in Action (MIA) is considered involuntary and occurs during military service or in countries undergoing insurrections or civil unrest.

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Medical Emergency, Mental Disability, Mental Illness, or Accident

Missing as a result of a mental disability, medical emergency, mental illness or accident while away from home are all considered involuntary. 

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Runaways

​Runaways are individuals who leave their homes or places of residence without the permission of their parents or legal guardian(s). In the case of minors or individuals under the age of 18 years old, these  are not considered voluntary as they are not legally allowed to make a decision to leave without the permission of a parent or legal guardian. Though some juveniles may leave home for reasons such as wanting to be on their own, experiencing abuse or neglect, facing challenging living conditions, are involved in delinquent behaviors or in a relationship with someone who encourages them to leave home, this does not mean they are not in any danger. They may still be at risk of harm and exploitation, particularly based on their age. It is crucial to take reports of runaways seriously, investigate the reasons for their departure, and work to ensure their safety and well-being regardless of the circumstances. 

 

VOLUNTARY

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Avoid Debt

​Some individuals may voluntarily go missing to avoid paying debts they owe, particularly in cases where the debt is significant or where the individual faces legal consequences for failing to pay the debt.

 

Avoid Criminal Elements or Law Enforcement​

Some individuals may voluntarily go missing or go into hiding to avoid criminal elements or law enforcement, particularly if they believe their safety or well-being is at risk. In some cases, individuals may be involved in criminal activity themselves and may go into hiding to avoid arrest or prosecution. In other cases, they may be victims or witnesses of crime and may fear retribution or retaliation from criminal elements.

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