32 arrested in Troup County human trafficking sting operation
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- Two-day undercover operation in Troup County resulted in 32 arrests for human trafficking-related crimes including pandering, pimping, and prostitution.
- Investigation uncovered trafficking victims and suspects; charges range from prostitution to drug possession, with ongoing state and federal investigations expected.
A two-day undercover operation targeting human trafficking and related criminal activity led to the arrest of 32 individuals in Troup County, officials announced Monday.
On July 16th and 17th, the Troup County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division conducted the operation in partnership with the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office, the Troup County Marshal’s Office, the Haralson County Sheriff’s Office, and the LaGrange Police Department. Investigators used technology to identify and locate individuals suspected of involvement in the commercial sex trade. Arrests were made after illegal acts were allegedly committed.
Charges against those arrested range from prostitution and pandering to pimping and drug possession, including possession with intent to distribute. All suspects were taken into custody without incident and booked into the Troup County Jail.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the operation also uncovered victims of human trafficking and potential sex traffickers. Those aspects of the investigation are ongoing and may result in additional state or federal charges.
Captain Nathan Taylor of the Troup County Narcotics Division emphasized the seriousness of the issue in a statement:
“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. These 32 arrests are not just numbers — they represent our ongoing effort to target those who profit from and participate in this kind of exploitation. We will continue to aggressively pursue and prosecute anyone involved in human trafficking and related offenses. Our message is clear: Troup County will not be a safe haven for traffickers or those who support this vile industry.”
The Sheriff’s Office reiterated that prostitution is not a victimless crime, often involving coercion, violence, and exploitation, particularly of young people.
Arrested Individuals:
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
Authorities say efforts to combat human trafficking in the region will continue, with further investigations expected to result in additional arrests.
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