UNDERCOVER OPERATION IN TROUP CO. TARGETING HUMAN TRAFFICKING RESULTS IN 32 ARRESTS

The operation utilized advanced investigative technology to identify individuals involved in the prostitution and human trafficking industry. Law enforcement officials were able to apprehend 32 individuals in connection with offenses ranging from prostitution to drug possession and distribution. All arrests were made without incident, and those charged were transported to the Troup County Jail.

“This was not just a series of arrests—it was a targeted strike against a network of exploitation,” said Captain Nathan Taylor of the Troup County Narcotics Division. “The Troup County Sheriff’s Office remains absolutely unwavering in our commitment to fighting human trafficking and dismantling the criminal networks that exploit the vulnerable.”

During the course of the operation, several victims of human trafficking were identified, and investigations are ongoing to determine the involvement of potential sex traffickers. Authorities anticipate that additional state and possibly federal charges could be forthcoming as the case develops.

Officials emphasized that prostitution is not a victimless crime. The sheriff’s office warns that the industry fosters an environment ripe for abuse, addiction, violence, and the exploitation of minors. “Even paying for a prostitute contributes to the trafficking cycle,” the department said in a statement. “Every dollar supports the victimization of those trapped in this dark industry.”

The following individuals were arrested during the operation:

• Charles Smith, 61, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Linzie Downey, 33, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Tyree Townes, 20, Hephzibah, GA – Pandering

• Nithin Kumar, 25, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Desmond McMillan, 25, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Demetrius Thompson, 36, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Demerius Bartlett, 29, Columbus, GA – Pimping

• Kandice Bartlett, 42, Columbus, GA – Prostitution

• Alex Martinez, 54, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Patrick Thomas, 28, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Eric Gamble, 52, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Jeff Wright, 54, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Charlie Denson, 39, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Joshua Kirkendoll, 42, LaGrange, GA – Possession of Methamphetamine, Pandering

• Sierra Hartman, 25, Montgomery, AL – Prostitution, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Methamphetamine

• Christopher James, 45, Franklin, GA – Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, Pandering, Probation Violation

• Mark Gray, 31, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• James Logan, 40, Pine Mountain, GA – Pandering

• Demetrius Talley, 51, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Jazmon Griggs, 41, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Jarvis Goode, 39, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Romel Maycock, 43, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Jaquarium Jackson, 32, Lanett, AL – Pandering

• Trinity Mealor, 49, Franklin, GA – Pandering

• Sade Garrison, 26, Columbus, GA – Prostitution

• Ulysses Stenson, 35, LaGrange, GA – Pandering

• Brandy Gillette, 51, St. Petersburg, FL – Pimping

• Melissa Quillen, 38, Augusta, GA – Pimping

• Crystal Cox, 41, Phenix City, AL – Prostitution

• Brandon Smith, 41, Atlanta, GA – Possession of Cocaine, Pimping

• Marquita Nelson, 33, Atlanta, GA – Possession of Cocaine

• Kierra Martin, 37, Austell, GA – Possession of Cocaine, Prostitution