Overview

When human remains are found that are believed to belong to a child, NCMEC can assist law enforcement and medical examiners in the effort to give that child back their name. This process includes assisting in the collection and dissemination of DNA, dentals, fingerprints, and other unique identifiers to help determine the identities of these children.  NCMEC’s forensic artists also create facial reconstructions of what the child might have looked like in life in hopes that someone will recognize him or her.

To view facial reconstructions and read information on the cases that NCMEC is working on, visit the Help ID Me Facebook page.

This map shows cases of long-term missing and unidentified children across the US. Click on the map to view more information, search cases by location, date, and to view posters of these children. You may hold the key to giving a child back his or her name!

What NCMEC is Doing About it

In addition to facial reconstructions, NCMEC staff can assist in the collection of biometric data and help connect law enforcement, medical examiners and coroners with current technologies and forensic methods. NCMEC staff can also provide analytical support and case strategy on current and long-term unidentified child cases.

View the available resources NCMEC can provide in these types of cases.

NCMEC’s traditional and social media teams are able to raise public awareness about missing and unidentified children by disseminating photos and information about the missing, often targeting specific geographical areas to maximize impact. The Help ID Me Facebook page is just one example of how NCMEC is using the latest in media trends to help find and protect children.