Missing Persons/Runaways

The Missing Persons/Runaway Unit is comprised of one Sheriff's Detective. The Detective’s primary duty is to thoroughly investigate every reported missing person and runway juvenile case and make every effort to locate that person. Contrary to popular belief, law enforcement agencies in California do not require a person to wait a specific period of time before reporting a missing person.

The Unit works closely with other agencies and organizations such as the California Department of Justice and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). NCMEC assists not only law enforcement, but parents as well.

To Report a Missing Person / Runaway

The Missing Persons / Runaway Unit conducts follow-up investigations on missing persons cases. To report a missing person or runaway, please call the law enforcement agency that serves the jurisdiction where the person was last seen.  For example, if it is a county location, call (559) 600-3111.  In the city of Fresno, dial (559) 621-7000. Please keep the Sheriff's Office or police department informed of the status and any leads in your case. If the missing person has returned or is no longer missing, please advise law enforcement as quickly as possible.