What is the goal of the awareness efforts related to long-term missing persons?

The goal of the awareness efforts related to long-term missing persons is primarily to generate leads from the public. By raising awareness about a missing person case, law enforcement agencies hope to engage the community, encouraging individuals to come forward with any information they might have that could assist in locating the missing person. Increased public awareness can lead to tips and insights that investigators may not have access to otherwise, significantly aiding in case resolution.

While enhancing report filing could contribute to more cases being formally documented, it is not the focal goal of awareness efforts. Shortening case durations and enhancing police resources may be beneficial outcomes but are secondary compared to the main objective of generating active leads from those who might have pertinent information. Engaging the public can often prove to be the most effective way to find long-term missing persons, as community members may have seen something or someone that could assist in the investigation.