Suffolk County officials on Thursday unveiled a new multiagency, coordinated approach to find missing children and curb what they say is an "epidemic" of human trafficking in the county. The initiative,

As News 12 first reported, the program will create a new system of sharing information about missing or trafficked children and provide resources for affected families.

Suffolk County has just been awarded state funds to combat human trafficking. The Trump administration evicted former Coast Guard Commandant Linda Fagan from her home with three hours of notice on Tuesday. The Trump White House press secretary's gaffe prompted two words to trend online.

Suffolk officials describe human trafficking in the county as an epidemic, and child welfare experts say it's an issue that affects entire communities. NewsdayTV's Shari Einhorn reports.

Operation Safe and Lasting Return' would not only create new protocols to combat human trafficking, but also provide resources for children and families.

Suffolk County officials announced Thursday a new anti-human-trafficking initiative they say will improve communication and coordination between law enforcement and other groups after a child is reported missing.