When a Loved
One Goes Missing
Resources for Families of Missing American
Indian and Alaska Native Adults
This guide was published by the Presidential Task Force on Missing
and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives, known
as Operation Lady Justice. Presidential Executive Order 13898
established Operation Lady Justice and includes members from the
U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of the Interior and
the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Cover art: “Lady Justice” used with permission from
D.G. Smalling, Choctaw Nation
See reuse policy: www.operationladyjustice.usdoj.gov/reuse-policy
www.operationladyjustice.usdoj.gov
When a Loved One Goes Missing:
Resources for Families of Missing American
Indian and Alaska Native Adults
PUBLISHED NOVEMBER 2021
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................... 1
Missing Adults ..............................................................................................2
Searching for a Loved One ...........................................................................3
The First Days After a Disappearance ......................................................... 3
Filing a Missing Person Report ............................................................ 5
Collecting and Sharing Information With Law Enforcement .............. 8
Supporting the Search ......................................................................... 9
Creating a Missing Person Flyer ........................................................... 10
Using Social Media ............................................................................... 11
Contacting the Media ............................................................................ 12
Understanding Intentional Disappearance and Condentiality ........ 13
30 Days or More After a Disappearance .................................................... 14
Gathering Physical Identication Information ..................................... 14
Searching for a Long-Term Missing Loved One ................................. 14
Finding Assistance and Supportive Services ............................................16
Emotional ..................................................................................................... 16
Financial ....................................................................................................... 17
Legal ............................................................................................................. 17
Coping With Trauma and Grief ....................................................................18
Trauma .......................................................................................................... 18
Grief and Traumatic Grief ............................................................................. 18
Self-Care and Community Care ................................................................... 19
Caring for a Returned Loved One ................................................................21
Trauma in Survivors ..................................................................................... 21
Healing Needs of Survivors.......................................................................... 22
Survivors of Human Trafcking .................................................................... 23
Resources ..................................................................................................... 24
Appendix — Missing Person Flyer ................................................................ 27
Appendix — Map of Tribal Coalitions .......................................................... 28
Appendix — Law Enforcement and Jurisdiction .......................................... 29
Operation Lady Justice1
Introduction
This guide provides information and practical resources to assist family
members and friends with the search for a missing adult loved one. While
not an exhaustive list of actions, this guide offers helpful steps to take while
searching for a loved one, suggestions about how to cope with trauma, and a
list of resources for navigating this difcult situation.
Dial 911 or contact law enforcement immediately when a person
younger than 21 years old disappears or if the missing person is at
immediate risk of injury or death.
Each missing loved one’s situation is unique, and not every recommendation
or resource in this guide will apply in every situation. If the information in this
guide feels overwhelming right now, consider asking a family member, friend,
or another person to read it for you, provide support, and share information
with you when you are ready.
If you need to talk with someone, contact StrongHearts Native Helpline
(www.strongheartshelpline.org) at 844-7NATIVE (762-8483) or the Alaska
Native Women’s Resource Center (www.aknwrc.org) at 907-328-3990.
Additionally, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (www.
missingkids.org) at 800-THE-LOST (843-5678) offers many resources to help
families looking for a missing child.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 2
Missing Adults
There are many reasons why adults may go missing. If you are reading this,
you care about your loved one. Be aware that they may have left unan-
nounced to escape a dangerous situation.
Until a law enforcement investigation is conducted, it may be unknown if an
individual is in danger or if the loved one is a victim of a crime. For these
reasons, it’s critical for families and friends to report to law enforcement
when someone goes missing — and for law enforcement to take a missing
person report.
A missing person report is an ofcial record of the disappearance so
no loved one is ever forgotten, no matter how long a case goes on.
There is no standard, national protocol for how local law enforcement
responds to missing adults over the age of 21. So, there may be times when
law enforcement does not take a missing adult person report immediately.
In this situation, seek out support from Tribal coalitions, advocacy programs,
and grassroots organizations. These organizations are there for a family’s
well-being and safety in Tribal communities.
Additionally, throughout the process of searching for a missing loved one,
emotions can run high, and people may not be supportive. There is the
possibility you may encounter “victim blaming.” This may happen when the
missing loved one’s behavior or past experiences inuence the community
or law enforcement response to the search. Focusing on the missing loved
one’s importance to you, your family, and your Tribal community can help if
you encounter victim blaming during this emotional time.
Operation Lady Justice3
National Domestic Violence
Hotline:
800-799-7233
www.thehotline.org
National Human Trafcking
Hotline:
888-373-7888
www.humantrafckinghotline.org
National Missing and
Unidentied Persons System
(NamUs):
833-872-5176
www.namus.gov
National Runaway Safeline:
800-786-2929
www.1800runaway.org
National Suicide Prevention
Lifeline:
800-273-8255
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
StrongHearts Native Helpline:
844-762-8483
www.strongheartshelpline.org
The First Days After a Disappearance
When a loved one goes missing, time is critical. Once you have determined
a loved one — regardless of their age — is missing, contact local law
enforcement as soon as possible to le a report. This is especially important
if the person has any health issues, disabilities, impairments, or medication
requirements. Again, time is critical; notify law enforcement immediately.
Searching for a Loved One
When an adult loved one goes missing, it’s often confusing and extremely
stressful for the family. This section shares steps to take during the rst days
after a disappearance through 30 days or more into the search.
You Are Not Alone
At any point, national hotlines can offer support over the phone and via chat
services. Conversations are condential and anonymous. National hotlines
may refer you to state or local resources for support.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 4
Emergency
Dial 911 when there is —
• evidence or suspicion of foul play or your loved one is in danger; or
• immediate risk of injury or death, including a missing elder with
cognitive disabilities or when someone goes missing during adverse
weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold.
If 911 capability is unavailable in a Tribal community, contact local law
enforcement.
Non-Emergency
Contact the law enforcement non-emergency number in the location where
the individual went missing when —
• there is no immediate physical danger; or
• a loved one has been missing for some time (e.g., several weeks,
months, or years).
If the loved one went missing on Tribal land, contact the Tribal police
department, if there is one, or your local police department and ask to
report a missing person. If the loved one lives or went missing outside of the
territorial boundaries of Tribal land, contact the police department in that
area. Note: If the Tribe does not have a police department, or you are unsure
who to contact, call the local police department or county sheriff’s ofce and
ask for assistance.
When there is evidence of a crime, local law enforcement agencies
are generally best suited to determine if and when to involve a federal
or state law enforcement agency. There are complex jurisdictional
questions at play when a crime occurs on Tribal land, and local law
enforcement will know if state or federal authorities have the proper
jurisdiction in these situations.
Operation Lady Justice5
Filing a Missing Person Report
Contact law enforcement in person, over the phone, or online to le a
missing person report. Provide as much information as possible about the
missing loved one. This includes their last known whereabouts, places they
like to go, and friends or relatives who may have been in contact with them.
It’s OK if you don’t have all the information right away. Share what you
know so law enforcement can create a missing person report and begin
investigating. Any information — positive or negative — can help investigators
locate a missing loved one. If you are concerned about sharing negative
information, remember that every missing person is more than the sum of
their experiences. Keeping the missing loved one’s importance to you, your
family, and your community at the forefront can help build trust between you
and the investigators when you le a report and during the search.
Take notes when you talk with law enforcement. During any emotional time, it
can be easy to forget information. Write down the date, time, who you spoke
with, and what you talked about to help you remember the discussions about
the missing loved one.
If local law enforcement is not willing to assist or seems confused
about the jurisdiction responsible for investigating, le a complaint
with the supervisor or supervising entity. For example, for the Bureau
of Indian Affairs (BIA) police, the supervising entity is the local BIA
superintendent. For Tribal police, contact the police chief or the Tribal
judicial committee. For county police, contact the sheriff; for city
police ofcers, contact the police chief.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 6
Information to gather and share with law enforcement.
Recent photo
Full name, nickname, and aliases
Tribal afliation(s)
Home address
Date of birth and age at the time of disappearance
Gender and biological sex (include both if they are different)
Detailed description: height and weight; hair and eye color; unique
scars, marks, and tattoos
Date and time of disappearance
Description of clothing or accessories worn at the time of
disappearance
Last known location
Who they were last seen with before they went missing
Any likely destinations such as favorite places, work, or study
locations
Information on any previous missing episodes and how those were
resolved
Medical conditions or behavioral health information
Disability (physical or mental)
Bank, credit card, or other nancial statements
Vehicle registration number, make, model, or other transportation
methods
Personal items left behind such as their purse, wallet, phone, or keys
Social media account usernames/handles, email addresses, and
cellphone numbers
Operation Lady Justice7
Take notes for your own records.
•Name and phone number of the police department
• Name of the ofcer you spoke with and their badge number
• Date and time the missing person report was led
• Missing person case report number
• Notes about the conversation
Record this information in the same place so it is easily found and can serve
as a timeline of events. You can also ask for a copy of the missing person
report for future reference.
It can be helpful to have support when communicating with law
enforcement. Ask a family member, friend, or partner to be with you
during these discussions. Some police departments have trained
advocates who may also be able to support you. If an investigator
asks to speak with you privately, it may be to help you feel comfortable
disclosing information about the missing loved one that may feel
private or sensitive.
After reporting your loved one missing, the law enforcement response will
vary depending on the circumstances. People who are older adults/elders
or those with a physical or mental disability are considered particularly
vulnerable; law enforcement will take quick action in these cases and when
there is suspicion or evidence that someone is a victim of a crime.
Individuals who are not possible crime victims or don’t fall within a vulner-
able category may not receive as much urgent law enforcement attention.
Legally speaking, adults have the right to be left alone. It’s possible there
may be limited police involvement after a report is led.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 8
Collecting and Sharing Information With Law Enforcement
As the investigation begins, families can support the search by —
talking with family, friends, and others who may know something.
sharing the individual’s social media account usernames/handles
(Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, etc.) to determine who may
know the missing loved one and have some information about them.
writing down information in a notebook, phone, or tablet and sharing
new information or details with law enforcement.
gathering recent photos of the missing loved one.
securing areas such as a bedroom or a bathroom; law enforcement
may need to collect certain items to support their search.
Share any new information with the law enforcement investigator
handling the missing person case and keep copies of the information
for your own records. If your missing loved one returns home safely or
contacts family members or friends, immediately notify police so they
can conrm their safety and welfare.
Law enforcement will use the information you provide to aid in the search of
your loved one and will provide information, when possible, on what is being
done. Understand that law enforcement is often unable to disclose all the
steps taken in a case, as it could jeopardize the investigation.
If you are concerned that law enforcement is not doing enough, rst speak
with supervisory staff, the police chief, or the sheriff where the loved one
was reported missing. If further help is needed, contact local media to tell
your story; reach out to elected Tribal, state, or federal representatives; or
consult with a civil attorney. While publicizing a case in the media or with
elected ofcials may increase awareness and attention, it might also impact
the investigation and divert law enforcement staff time and resources.
Operation Lady Justice9
Supporting the Search
Families have a right to search for their missing loved one. If you do search
on your own, it is helpful to maintain open communication with law enforce-
ment throughout the search process (at the beginning, during, and after the
loved one is located), especially if evidence needs to be preserved.
Families can support the search by identifying individuals who can —
• coordinate with law enforcement,
• manage and communicate with volunteers,
• oversee food and shelter arrangements,
• work with victim service providers, and
• arrange for Elders to provide spiritual guidance.
Searches on some terrain may require specialized equipment
and volunteers such as horse and rider teams, volunteers for foot
searches, ATVs, boats, divers, sonar equipment, planes, helicopters,
and drones. Work with law enforcement to connect with a professional
search team or search online to nd an organization in your area.
Some organizations provide their time and expertise for free to
families searching for a loved one.
During the search, law enforcement may contact hospitals, jails, and medical
examiners or coroners’ ofces. While health care organizations may not be
able to share personal information (even with family) because of condenti-
ality laws, law enforcement is exempt when there’s a safety threat.
Law enforcement may enter details about the missing person into a national
database — the National Crime Information Center — to connect with other
local, state, Tribal, and federal law enforcement ofcers across the country.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 10
Creating a Missing Person Flyer
A missing person yer can increase awareness and support, both online and
in the community. Sharing a digital yer on social media can reach people
across a large geographic area quickly. To spread awareness, ask others to
share the yer on their social media accounts. If distributing paper yers,
post them in the location where the missing person was last seen and in
places they normally frequent, such as shopping centers, bus stops, parks,
Tribal centers, gyms, or restaurants.
If you need assistance with printing costs for missing person yers, local
businesses may discount the cost or print them for free.
When creating a yer, include the following information:
Name
Recent photo
Date of disappearance
Gender and biological sex (if different)
Detailed description (height, weight, build, hair, eye color)
Identifying marks or scars, especially tattoos and other unique marks
Don’t include personal contact information (i.e., home address,
personal phone number, or personal email address) on the yer.
Instead, use the law enforcement agency’s preferred contact number.
Consider creating an email address specically for the search effort.
A missing person yer template is in the appendix. You can also create
a “printable poster” for missing person cases published in the National
Missing and Unidentied Persons System (NamUs). Contact 833-872-5176
or [email protected] for assistance with printing posters.
Operation Lady Justice11
NamUs is a public resource for long-term missing person cases
veried by law enforcement. Friends, family, or the general public
can use the database (www.namus.gov) to share updates, access
case information, and connect with criminal justice professionals in
NamUs.
Using Social Media
Posting the missing person’s photo and yer on social media (Facebook,
Instagram, Twitter, etc.) and asking others to share it immediately spreads
awareness and increases community involvement.
Steps to consider when using social media:
• Coordinate with law enforcement before using social media when they
are assisting with the case; there may be considerations about what
case details to share publicly on social media.
• Determine what to share publicly; keep sensitive details about the
loved one private.
• Think about creating a new social media account for the missing
person separate from your personal accounts.
• Share the law enforcement non-emergency number or hotline to call
with tips; avoid sharing personal contact information online.
• Designate a family member or friend to update and manage posts.
• Include a direct ask in social media posts, such as asking others to
share the post or call with information.
• Share photos just of the missing person; photos should not include
other people (to protect their privacy and avoid confusion).
• Identify relevant hashtags, or create a new hashtag for your search, to
include in the social media posts to potentially reach more people and
make it easier to nd related online posts.
• Look for online groups highlighting missing persons in your area; ask
them to share information about your missing loved one.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 12
Be aware if you post on social media: You may receive negative
comments on social media posts. These comments may shame or
blame the missing loved one for their own disappearance. You don’t
need to reply and can delete negative comments. Also, the FBI warns
families to beware of scammers exploiting the disappearance of a
loved one for money. Learn more at the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint
Center (www.IC3.gov or www.fbi.gov).
Contacting the Media
Contacting local media about your missing loved one can help raise
awareness, especially early in the search. You can share the missing person
yer and ask that the information be shared on the air or in a story.
Steps to consider when contacting media outlets:
• Coordinate with law enforcement before contacting media outlets, if
possible; there may be considerations about what case details to share
publicly depending on each individual situation.
• Determine what to share publicly; keep sensitive details private.
• Share the law enforcement non-emergency number or hotline to call
with tips; avoid sharing personal contact information.
• Designate one person as the media contact/spokesperson so consis-
tent information is shared.
• Include a direct ask for reporters to convey to the public, such as
asking people to call the police with any information.
Media coverage can have drawbacks, including intense focus on
the family during a difcult time, disclosure and scrutiny of personal
information about the loved one or the family, or the potential to
undermine a police investigation.
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Understanding Intentional Disappearance and Condentiality
A loved one may intentionally leave home without telling family or friends
their location. There are many reasons a person may disappear, including
personal choice or to escape a volatile or abusive relationship. Regardless
of the reason, the missing person has a right to leave and may not want to
share where they are going and the reasons for leaving.
An individual may intentionally go missing to escape domestic or
sexual violence. In these cases, condentiality is more than just an
issue of privacy: It can be one of survival. Domestic violence shelters
offer a safe haven and cannot share any information with families or
law enforcement without the individual’s consent.
Law enforcement ofcials and service providers have condentiality obliga-
tions to the missing individual that may prevent disclosure of their location
to family members. For instance, when a missing adult is located alive, the
missing person must consent for law enforcement to share their location.
Family members can request that law enforcement relay a message, asking
the missing loved one to contact their searching family. The individual,
however, is under no obligation to contact family members and, in some
cases, may have well-justied fears about contacting those who reported
them missing.
Many local service provider programs, such as domestic violence shelters,
have a privileged or condential relationship with their clients, with limited
exceptions. Unless the individual gives consent through a waiver of conden-
tiality or privilege, the counselor, therapist, shelter worker, or service provider
program volunteer cannot disclose the individual’s location.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 14
30 Days or More After a Disappearance
If a loved one is not found quickly, Tribal coalitions and victim service
programs may offer support navigating the uncertainty.
When there is suspicion of foul play, law enforcement and specialized victim
services may also be available to families. Specialized victim services may
include providing emotional support, assessing needs, identifying resources,
and sharing case updates on the investigative process.
At this point in the process, collecting biometric data from the family can
help further the search.
Gathering Physical Identication Information
Law enforcement may request biometric information to assist in the ongoing
search efforts. Biometric information refers to an individual’s unique physical
identiers, such as ngerprints and DNA, and can assist law enforcement,
forensic specialists, medical examiners, and coroners with resolving a
missing person case.
Depending on the circumstances of the disappearance, law enforcement
may ask for medical and dental records and for parents, full siblings, or
children to provide a DNA sample. To note, law enforcement will only use
family DNA samples in the search for a missing loved one and not for any
other purpose. If law enforcement has not gathered biometric information,
families can contact regional NamUs specialists for support at 833-872-
5176 or [email protected]v.
Searching for a Long-Term Missing Loved One
No loved one is ever forgotten, no matter how long a case goes on. Until the
missing individual is recovered, law enforcement, medical examiners, and
forensic specialists will continue sharing information with one another in
national missing person databases.
Operation Lady Justice15
Tribal coalitions across the country can offer support and services
to families searching for a missing loved one. These Tribal coalitions
are well connected in their communities and serve as advocates for
American Indian and Alaska Native families in the area.
The Alliance of Tribal Coalitions to End Violence (www.atcev.org) is a good
starting point to connect with a Tribal coalition in your area. Contact them
at 888-577-0940. A map of where Tribal coalitions are located is in the
appendix. Additionally, the Tribal Resource Tool (www.tribalresourcetool.org)
is a searchable directory of available Tribal services in your geographic area.
Vigils, marches, and prayer ceremonies can encourage community support
and raise awareness about the missing loved one. Tribal coalitions,
grassroots organizations, and Tribal communities can support families in
organizing these events. Consider refreshing missing person yers with
different pictures to share during these community awareness events.
Nonprot organizations and community-run groups like Miracle Messages
(available at 800-MISS-YOU (647-7968) or www.miraclemessages.org) and
Forget Me Not (www.facebook.com/groups/1607335859320104) work to
connect missing loved ones with their families.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 16
Finding Assistance and
Supportive Services
You are not alone. For generations, American Indian and Alaska Native
communities have gathered for song or prayer to overcome challenges. Tribal
councils, Tribal coalitions, family services, and victim services can help raise
public awareness, create healing spaces, and give support as they walk
alongside you during this process. Cultural traditions can also offer comfort
during this difcult time.
It may be helpful to seek supportive services during the search for a missing
loved one. Available services will vary, especially in remote areas where
access is limited or nonexistent. Contact local or Tribal health care providers,
such as Indian Health Service (www.ihs.gov/ndhealthcare), as a starting
point for mental health and other supportive services.
The Tribal Resource Tool (www.tribalresourcetool.org) is a directory
of services for American Indian and Alaska Native survivors and
victims of crime and abuse. Contact information is available in a
searchable map.
Emotional
Feelings of loss or grief are a normal response to a traumatic event and can
be difcult to manage. You may also experience survivor’s guilt or feel you
could have done something to prevent or change the situation.
Talking with friends, family members, and Tribal or spiritual leaders can
be comforting. When these feelings become overwhelming or difcult to
process, consider seeking help from a therapist. Professional therapy can
provide additional emotional support and coping strategies.
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Financial
Financial support for handling a missing loved one’s personal affairs may
be available through Tribal coalitions and grassroots organizations when the
missing individual has not been a victim of a crime.
When the missing loved one has been a victim of a crime, there may be
resources available to support their healing. Crime victim assistance
programs (www.ovc.ojp.gov/help-for-victims/overview) may offer services like
crisis intervention, counseling, emergency shelter, criminal justice advocacy,
and emergency transportation.
State victim compensation programs (www.nacvcb.org/state-information)
may reimburse victims and secondary victims for expenses like medical
costs, mental health counseling, lost wages, or loss of support. When state
and local resources are exhausted, federal funding for victims of crime
through the local FBI ofce may be available on a case-by-case basis.
When a loved one is found deceased as a result of a crime, BIA or FBI Victim
Services can offer additional support with navigating crime-related costs,
legal resources for declaring someone’s death, and reunication support.
Legal
Seek the help of a reputable attorney if you think you need legal advice.
Local legal aid services may be able to assist families with navigating the
nancial affairs and estate of a missing loved one. You can search Law Help
(www.lawhelp.org) for legal aid programs, or contact the National Center
for Victims of Crime at 202-467-8700 or [email protected] for help
connecting to legal services.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 18
Coping With Trauma and Grief
Searching for a missing loved one can create high levels of stress on the
family. This stress is called trauma and can occur immediately or over time,
affecting an individual’s mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual
well-being. This section gives ideas for practicing self-care and seeking
community support to cope with trauma and grief.
Trauma
Traumatic events, like the disappearance of a loved one, can cause feelings
of shock, denial, and sadness that are difcult to process. Trauma can
refer to either the event itself, or the reaction to it. In either case, trauma
is unpredictable and complex; everyone processes trauma differently.
Community support, as well as cultural and spiritual practices, may provide
comfort and healing.
Trauma impacts everyone differently. Individuals who may have
experienced trauma in the past can experience ashbacks, anger, and
depression from previous trauma, retriggered when a loved one goes
missing. Recognizing that individual reactions to trauma vary can help
foster open communication within families and a better understand-
ing of each other’s responses.
Grief and Traumatic Grief
One emotion that frequently accompanies trauma is grief. When a person
is missing from our lives, we can experience feelings of loss or grief, even if
the person is still alive. Coping with loss can be difcult, and grief is a normal
and healthy response. Some missing person cases continue for a long time.
Losses without closure are called ambiguous losses and can be particularly
difcult to process. Continuing to seek help and surrounding yourself with
healthy relationships is important, even if years pass without a clear end.
Operation Lady Justice19
Grief can be particularly intense in the case when a death occurs,
whether early in an investigation or after many years of searching. The
grieving process of a violent death is even more painful. Such a death
can create physical and emotional strain in many areas. Traumatic
grief — a grief accompanying an unexpected loss — can result in
feelings of guilt, despair, and even thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
The grief associated with a sudden death can strain relationships and be
expressed in different ways. Some people may want to talk more openly
about their feelings; others may be reluctant to express their emotions.
Some people may want to be left alone; others may want to be around those
closest to them. Feelings of grief can continue and resurface over time.
For children, the loss of a loved one can be confusing and the world can feel
upside down. Some children may not understand the meaning of death or
the complexity of their feelings. Trained child specialists can offer strategies
for coping and other support services for children. Local service providers
can be found in the Tribal Resource Tool (www.tribalresourcetool.org). Online
resources discuss the needs of children and teens who are grieving a death
and provide education and resources for parents and caregivers, such as
Sesame Street In Communities (www.sesamestreetincommunities.org/
topics/grief) and the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (www.nctsn.
org/what-is-child-trauma).
Self-Care and Community Care
The term self-care describes ways to cope with trauma and grief, but there
is no singular denition. Self-care generally includes activities and practices
to reduce stress and support long-term physical and emotional well-being.
These activities can include practicing deep breathing, eating healthy food,
exercising, and getting enough sleep.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 20
No matter how you react to trauma, or how your grief displays, providing
self-care, seeking outside support, and maintaining community ties can offer
healing support during this difcult time.
There is no timeline for how long it takes to grieve losing a loved one.
Here are a few ways to cope with trauma and grief:
• Acknowledge your feelings of grief as normal responses to abnormal
situations.
• Practice self-care, like getting enough sleep and exercising.
• Ask loved ones and friends for support and spend time with them.
• Participate in spiritual, religious, or traditional ceremonies and
practices.
• Identify and engage in peer support groups or networks.
• Seek mental and health care, such as in-person therapy or teletherapy
with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other counselor.
• Work with law enforcement to identify victim services when
appropriate.
Most missing person cases end with family and loved ones reunited.
However, trauma and grief can be present after any missing person inves-
tigation. Even when you are reunited with your loved one, your emotional,
mental, physical, and spiritual health may still need care.
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Caring for a Returned Loved
One
When a loved one returns home, they may be experiencing trauma as a
result of their disappearance. The effects of trauma can occur immediately
or over time, affecting an individual’s well-being. This section covers how
trauma may impact a survivor, the healing needs of survivors, and where to
get help for a loved one who may have experienced human trafcking.
Trauma in Survivors
Reactions to trauma vary from person to person and can last for hours,
weeks, months, or years. Creating safe conditions, remaining calm, and
connecting with others are ways to support a loved one dealing with trauma.
When supporting someone who has undergone trauma, it’s important to
respect a loved one’s decisions and be sensitive to their needs.
When possible, help a returning loved one transition home with these ideas:
• Help them feel in control by letting them make their own decisions.
• Create a routine, which includes time for self-care.
• Find a safe place to gather and promote support.
• Organize ways for them to connect with loved ones and friends.
• Make sure they know where to access support and resources.
Don’t:
• Force people to tell their stories.
• Probe for personal details.
• Say things like “everything will be OK” or “at least you survived.”
• Say what you think a returned loved one should feel or how they should
act in a situation.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 22
Healing Needs of Survivors
When a loved one returns home, they may ask for your support and under-
standing as they cope with what happened to them. Immediate emergency
needs may be easiest to meet; longer-term needs often require outside
support from family services, victim services, or spiritual practices.
To nd local service providers, contact local or Tribal health care
providers like Indian Health Service (www.ihs.gov/ndhealthcare) or
use the Tribal Resource Tool (www.tribalresourcetool.org).
Immediate emergency needs may include the following:
• Safety: Does the individual need to le a police report or restraining
order if they experienced violence before or during their disappear-
ance? Do they feel safe in the environment they have returned to?
• Medical care: Does the individual need health care? Do they have
immediate access to medication? Is their provider approaching health
care in a trauma-informed way to prevent the long-term onset of
post-traumatic stress?
• Mental health: Is the survivor receiving professional help for pro-
cessing trauma? Is the individual connected with their community and
traditional or spiritual practices? Does their insurance cover mental or
emotional health services, or are there community health options?
• Behavioral health: Does the individual need treatment for substance
use, especially if this was a contributing factor to their disappearance?
Does their insurance cover any behavioral health services, or are there
community health options?
• Shelter: Does the individual have a permanent, safe place to live? Do
they need help nding shelter? Can friends or relatives provide safe
housing? Can local victim service providers provide housing referrals?
Are there local government programs that can provide housing
assistance, either in a safe, trauma-informed shelter or through direct
nancial aid?
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Longer-term needs vary depending on the individual. These needs can
include ongoing medical care, therapeutic counseling, cultural and spiritual
practices, transportation to medical and mental health care appointments,
legal aid, and other services.
Survivors of Human Tracking
Human trafcking is a crime that involves the exploitation of a person —
using force, fraud, or coercion — for the purpose of compelled sex or labor.
Additionally, any person under the age of 18 who is engaged in commercial
sex acts is a victim of human trafcking.
If a loved one was a victim of human trafcking while missing, the National
Human Trafcking Hotline (www.humantrafckinghotline.org) offers services
and support to get help and stay safe. Call 888-373-7888 or text 233733. All
calls and texts are condential; you may request assistance anonymously.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 24
Resources
Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center (AKNWRC)
AKNWRC is a nonprot organization working to strengthen local, Tribal
government’s responses through community organizing efforts and advocat-
ing for the safety of women and children.
Phone: 907-328-3990 • Email: info@aknwrc.org • Website: www.aknwrc.org
Alliance of Tribal Coalitions to End Violence (ATCEV)
ATCEV is a nonprot organization advancing Tribal sovereignty and the safety
of American Indian and Alaska Native women by providing support to Tribal
coalitions and communities in their efforts to address equal justice for
survivors of violence.
Phone: 888-577-0940 • Website: www.atcev.org
Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Ofce of Justice Services (OJS),
Missing and Murdered Unit
BIA’s Missing and Murdered Unit works with Tribal, federal, state, and local
law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders to analyze and solve
missing and murdered cases involving American Indians and Alaska Natives.
Phone: 833-560-2065 • Email: [email protected]
Tipline: Text keyword BIAMMU and your tip to 847411
Website: www.bia.gov/bia/ojs/missing-murdered-unit
BIA, OJS, Victim Assistance Program
The Victim Assistance Program offers on-call, 24/7 response, crisis inter-
vention, referrals, information on mental and emotional health and other
specialized responses, emergency services, and transportation for victims
of crime in Indian Country. Receive help to understand the investigative
process, court accompaniment, and follow-up assistance. There are also
victim specialists located in certain Tribal communities.
Phone: 505-563-3420 • Website: www.bia.gov/bia/ojs/victim-assistance
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FBI Victim Service Division
The FBI Victim Service Division is responsible for ensuring that victims of
crimes investigated by the FBI are given the opportunity to receive services
and notication as required by federal law and the Attorney General
Guidelines on Victim and Witness Assistance.
Phone: 877-236-8947• Website: www.fbi.gov/resources/victim-services
NamUs Regional Program Specialists
NamUs offers investigative support for a long-term, missing loved one.
Friends, family, or the general public can use the NamUs database to
share updates, access case information, and connect with criminal justice
professionals.
Phone: 833-872-5176 • Email: [email protected]v • Website: www.namus.gov
National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center (NIWRC)
NIWRC is a Native-led, nonprot organization dedicated to ending violence
against Native women and children through national leadership, advocacy,
and culturally grounded resources. The organization can also connect
individuals with a Tribal coalition in your local area.
Phone: 406-477-3896 • Website: www.niwrc.org
StrongHearts Native Helpline
StrongHearts is a 24/7 safe, condential, and anonymous domestic, dating,
and sexual violence helpline. Call, text, or chat online to receive support.
Phone: 844-7NATIVE (762-8483) • Website: www.strongheartshelpline.org
The Tribal Resource Tool
The Tribal Resource Tool is a searchable directory of services available for all
American Indian and Alaska Native survivors of crime and abuse in Indian
Country. Find contact information for service providers in your area.
Website: www.tribalresourcetool.org
When a Loved One Goes Missing 26
OVC Directory of Crime Victim Services
The directory assists crime victims and service providers with nding
non-emergency crime victim service programs in the United States.
Website: www.ovc.ojp.gov/directory-crime-victim-services
Victim Service Providers
A list of contact information for thousands of local victim service providers
is available on the Ofce on Violence Against Women’s website. These are
grouped by state to easily see what is available in your area.
Website: www.justice.gov/ovw/local-resources
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Appendix — Missing Person Flyer
MISSING
IF YOU HAVE INFORMATION ABOUT (MISSING PERSON’S NAME) CALL (LAW
ENFORCEMENT AGENCY & PHONE NUMBER) OR TIP LINE
(PERSON’S FULL NAME)
Missing from: (where)
Date missing: (full date)
Date of birth: (month/day/year)
Age: (in years)
Gender/sex: (male/female)
Height: (feet and inches)
Weight: (pounds)
Build: (thin, medium, heavy, etc.)
Eyes: (color)
Hair: (color, length, wavy or straight,
style he/she wears it in)
Race: (American Indian, Alaska Native,
Hispanic, African American, etc.)
Complexion: (fair, olive, etc.)
Clothing: (Describe what the individual
was wearing at time of disappearance.
Include any jewelry or personal
belongings.)
(Add any other descriptive information
such as tattoos, body piercings, scars,
health problems, etc.)
Circumstances: (Add information
about when person was last seen, if
they were seen with anyone else, etc.,
as guided by law enforcement.)
MISSING PERSON’S
FULL NAME HERE
RECENT PHOTO
When a Loved One Goes Missing 28
Appendix — Map of Tribal Coalitions
There are 19 Tribal coalitions
operating in Indian Country shaded on the
map below. Tribal coalitions serve the Tribal communities where the services
are being provided and were created for the specic region. Tribal coalitions
provide education, support, and training assistance to member Indian
service providers and Tribes enhancing their response to victims of domestic
violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafcking.
Contact the Alliance of Tribal Coalitions to End Violence at 888-577-0940 to
connect with a Tribal coalition in your area. The ways Tribal coalitions serve
their regions is constantly growing and developing. To nd out more about
these organizations, visit www.atcev.org/tribal-coalitions.
List of Tribal coalitions current as of November 2021.
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Appendix — Law Enforcement and Jurisdiction
In an adult missing person case, the circumstances around the individual’s
disappearance determine the law enforcement response.
When a person is reported missing or a crime occurs in Indian Country, there
may be a multi-jurisdictional response to the investigation, the victim, and
the families. Jurisdiction determines the role law enforcement agencies take
in investigating the missing person case. Depending on the situation, the
following law enforcement agencies may be involved in the search.
Tribal Law Enforcement
Tribally operated law enforcement agencies provide a broad range of public
safety services. They respond to calls for service, investigate crimes, enforce
trafc laws, execute arrest warrants, serve process, provide court security,
and conduct search and rescue operations. When a missing loved one goes
missing off of Tribal land, Tribal law enforcement may assist families by
referring them to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Local Law Enforcement
The county sheriff’s ofce and city police departments are considered
to be local law enforcement responsible for crimes and activities in their
area. Some agencies have dedicated missing person investigators. Find
local law enforcement agencies in your state at golawenforcement.com/
state-law-enforcement-agencies.
Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)
When the loved one goes missing from a Tribal community where BIA
provides law enforcement services, BIA may be involved in the search. A local
law enforcement agency may also ask BIA to assist in a missing person case.
The general public can submit anonymous tips about missing or murdered
Indigenous people through Tip411. Text keyword BIAMMU and your tip to
847411. Or call 833-560-2065 or email [email protected]v.
When a Loved One Goes Missing 30
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
The FBI may be involved in the investigation when the loved one goes
missing from Tribal lands and evidence leads local law enforcement to
suspect foul play. Sometimes Tribal, state, or local law enforcement may
request FBI expert assistance during an investigation, such as evidence
response or intelligence support. The FBI also receives tips from members of
the general public (at www.fbi.gov/tips) and shares the information with local
law enforcement.
State Law Enforcement
In some states, Public Law 280 expanded state law enforcement responsibil-
ities in Indian Country. Therefore, in some Tribal communities and in cases
arising outside of Tribal lands, state law enforcement, instead of the FBI, may
be involved in a missing person case when there is suspicion or evidence
of foul play. State law enforcement may include state highway patrols, state
troopers, or state bureaus of investigation.
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