We explained that Julian had returned and arranged for him to confirm his identity and speak directly with the appropriate officer.

The report needed to be updated through verified contact, not simply closed because I told somebody I recognized a beard and a coat.

Julian answered the initial questions.

He provided his current details and agreed to the follow-up verification.

He was an adult who had left voluntarily, but that did not mean the years of work could be erased without establishing that he was safe and genuinely the person reported missing.

The investigator was careful.