Georgia Sting: 17 Individuals in Custody for Trafficking, Multi-Agency Operation

In a sweeping multi-agency online undercover investigation dubbed “Operation Not For Sale,” authorities in Bryan County, Georgia, successfully arrested 17 individuals involved in sex trafficking and solicitation. The operation, spearheaded by the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI) Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit (HEAT), in collaboration with the Richmond Hills Police Department, Bryan County Sheriff’s Office, and the Georgia Department of Public Safety’s Georgia Motor Carrier Compliance Division, aimed to combat human trafficking by targeting both sex buyers and traffickers.

The carefully coordinated operation involved months of planning and resource allocation, with the ultimate goal of reducing the demand for sex and identifying and apprehending human traffickers. According to GBI officials, the arrested individuals, aged between 21 and 49, had traveled from various areas around Bryan County with the intent to either purchase or sell sex.

“Operation Not For Sale” had a two-fold approach. Firstly, it sought to draw in sex buyers to address the demand side of human trafficking. Secondly, it aimed to attract sex workers to offer them resources and support. The collaborative effort also involved the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC), which provided assistance and resources to the victims involved.

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GBI officials announced the arrest of three individuals on charges of pimping:

1. Davron Jamaal Hinton – 37 – Jacksonville, FL
2. Oswaldo Rodriguez Rameriz – 33 – Savannah, GA
3. Karolay Karlay Rosalin Arraez Romero – 23

Additionally, police arrested and charged 14 individuals with pandering:

1. Steven Ray Snelson, age 45, of Hinesville, GA
2. Antonio Babbs, age 45, of Hinesville, GA
3. James Rush, age 49, of Richmond Hill, GA
4. Mario Romero, age 33, of Claxton, GA
5. Alberto Jay Vadi, age 42, of Savannah, GA (DUI)
6. Rakshit Ravi Ramteke, age 21, of Savannah, GA
7. Miles Diede, age 29, of Savannah, GA
8. Chiragkumar Patel, age 36, of Savannah, GA
9. Jason Manuel Herrera, age 39, of Savannah, GA (Drug Charge)
10. George Foster Sharpe, age 38, of Savannah, GA
11. David Herrera Truijillo, age 37, of Eden, GA
12. Juan Mora Flores, age 48, of Washington
13. Samuel De’Antayke Sawyer, age 24, of Richmond Hill, GA
14. Seyth Allan Cambron, age 32, of Savannah, GA (Outstanding Warrant & Drug Charge)

GBI officials noted that more arrests are expected as the investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities urged anyone with information to contact the GBI’s HEAT Unit at 404-270-8433, Richmond Hill Police Department at 912-756-5645, or the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office at 912-756-3177.

Highlighting the severity of the issue, all forms of human trafficking were urged to be reported to Georgia’s statewide human trafficking hotline, 1-866-ENDHTGA. Trained law enforcement agents, advocates, and first responders are available 24/7 to respond to calls and provide necessary assistance.

The success of “Operation Not For Sale” underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies in combating the scourge of human trafficking. The operation’s comprehensive strategy, targeting both sex buyers and traffickers, exemplifies a proactive approach to address the multifaceted nature of the issue. As the investigation continues, there is hope that the crackdown will serve as a deterrent to those involved in illicit activities and contribute to the broader efforts to eradicate human trafficking in the region.