There are many situations in which Georgia authorities combine their efforts with outside law enforcement agencies to conduct sting operations and investigations into suspected large-scale crime rings. Such endeavors often lead to drug charges or other formal accusations, depending on the circumstances. A recent task force operation set up for the purpose of investigating a child pornography issue has culminated with many warrants being issued and arrests being made in two states.
A task force for internet crimes against children in Georgia teamed up with authorities in a neighboring state to conduct an investigation that lasted at least three months. It reportedly took two full days to issue all the warrants and make arrests in both states. Approximately 54 warrants were served during the process.
All told, more than 160 digital devices were examined, and more than 730 electronic devices seized as evidence in the sting. Various arrests included charges related to second-degree unlawful possession of marijuana and other drug charges. Other individuals were taken into custody and charged for possession of child pornography. The investigation was known as Operation Southern Impact.
As the investigation conducted by Georgia law enforcement agents and cooperating forces across state lines came to a close, 31 people were arrested. Each of those persons will now have the opportunity to fight the drug charges and sex-related crime charges leveled against them. Such charges often carry severe penalties should convictions be handed down. Avoiding prison and minimizing the negative consequences of such situations is often easier to achieve by acting alongside skilled and aggressive defense representation.
Source: wtvy.com, “2 Enterprise residents arrested on drug charges as part of massive child sex crime sting”, April Davis, Nov. 4, 2016
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