Heartland Forensic Search & Recovery is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to assisting law enforcement and emergency agencies in the search for missing persons—at no cost to the agency, family, or community. We are fully funded through donations only, and our team is made up of diverse professionals united by a common mission, to bring the missing home.

 Ground Search Team
Our trained ground team members use proven search techniques to safely and efficiently locate missing persons and human remains.

Water Operators

 All team members receive comprehensive training in water awareness and water recovery operations. This training prepares our personnel to safely and effectively support water-related search and recovery incidents while working within established safety procedures and operational guidelines. 

Our Family Liaison Officers (FLO) are trained in Psychological First Aid and serves as a dedicated connection between the search team and the missing person’s family.

The FLO works directly with loved ones to gather valuable information about the missing person—including habits, routines, interests, and behaviors—that may help Incident Command develop more effective search strategies.

Throughout the search, the FLO keeps families informed, provides support and resources, and remains available for follow-up after the search concludes.

Supporting families. Gathering information. Strengthening the search.

 Collectively, our members bring more than 100 years of experience in law enforcement, military service, investigations, and forensic science.

Heartland also maintains relationships with forensic professionals and specialized resources who can assist when needed, including water searches, water-related deaths, and other specialized recovery situations.

When the need is great, we bring the right people together.

 Incident Command
Our team operates within the principles of the FEMA National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS), promoting effective communication, coordination, accountability, and safety throughout each search operation.

Technology in Search Operations
We utilize modern technology to enhance search efforts, including mapping and tracking systems, GPS, drones, and other tools that help teams efficiently search, document, and coordinate operations.

 Certified Drone Operators

Our certified drone operators provide aerial support, helping teams quickly search large or difficult-to-access areas and document areas of interest. 

 Canine & Mounted Units
Certified canine and mounted search units are available when needed to support search and recovery operations. These specialized teams bring additional capabilities and expertise to challenging search environments. 

 Heartland has been selected by serval Coroner’s Offices in Ohio and Indiana counties to assist during mass-fatality incidents when needed.

Our team’s role may include locating, marking, and documenting remains and associated evidence to support Coroner Investigators and the overall recovery operation.

We also assist with natural disaster response and recovery efforts in coordination with FEMA and other response agencies.

It is an honor to serve our community.