Questions answered in this file

Can a case labeled runaway be reviewed as a missing person case?

Yes. Families can ask the agency to review it as a long-term missing person case and consider foul play where facts support it.

Do police have to wait before taking a missing child report?

No. Federal law requires missing child reports to be accepted without waiting periods and entered promptly into NCIC.

Does NCMEC help with old missing teen cases?

NCMEC assists with cases of children reported missing before age 18, including historical cases, with posters and age progression.

Why should families provide DNA reference samples?

Samples from relatives allow comparison with unidentified remains anywhere in the country, which can resolve long-term cases.

What records should families request about the original search?

The missing person report, follow-up records, search details, witness interviews and confirmation of database entries.