An operation was launched in an effort to track down and arrest those who participate in child sex trafficking. So far, 71 individuals were arrested and charged with a number of sex crimes throughout Georgia. The FBI’s goal is to rescue children who are being exploited and arrest those who are encouraging child prostitution. Although arrests have been made, the defendants have not been convicted of any criminal conduct.
On the national level, authorities rescued 168 victims who were minors and also apprehended 281 alleged pimps. In our own state, 11 minors were reportedly forced into prostitution and exploited through the computer. This particular investigation led to the arrest of 71 people in Georgia who face a variety of charges. Their charges include criminal attempt of child molestation and enticement of a minor.
Other charges include solicitation and prostitution, along with pimping. So far, over 3,000 children have been rescued by authorities. The Innocence Lost National Initiative started back in 2003 and performs these operations across the country. Agencies who are affiliated with the operation are the Department of Justice and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Understandably, Georgia state prosecutors seek to convict defendants who are charged with any type of sex crimes, especially those that involve children. The defendants in this case have a daunting battle to contend with since they could face years in prison. One has the right to defend against the allegations and fight for one’s freedom. Furthermore, one is ALWAYS presumed innocent until — and only if — declared guilty by a judge or jury of their peers.
Source: 11alive.com, “71 Georgians arrested in nationwide child sex trafficking bust“, , June 23, 2014
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