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Augusta Expands Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit

The new team in Augusta is committed to fighting human trafficking.

News Summary

Augusta’s fight against human trafficking gains momentum with the expansion of the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit, set to launch on May 1. The initiative, fueled by new funding, introduces a dedicated team including experienced prosecutors and investigators. This move aims to address the city’s growing human trafficking crisis, with over 200 reported victims last year. The new unit plans to target high-risk areas and provide support for victims, reinforcing Augusta’s commitment to combatting this pressing issue.

Exciting News for Augusta: New Team Tackles Human Trafficking!

Augusta is about to see some serious action against human trafficking! The Georgia Attorney General has announced an exciting expansion of the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit, officially rolling out on May 1. This means more resources and a dedicated team to combat this pressing issue in our city.

Meet the New Team Members!

With this expansion, the unit will be bolstered by the hiring of Megan Adams, a brand-new prosecutor who comes with a wealth of experience from her time as an Assistant District Attorney. She has handled felony cases, worked with juvenile courts, and tackled child support hearings. Her broad skill set will undoubtedly be a tremendous asset in the fight against human trafficking.

Joining her will be two highly qualified investigators: Patrick Brown and William Loomer. Patrick, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, has previously served as a Narcotics Investigator in Richmond County. He has participated in over 200 high-risk tactical operations, making him well-equipped to address the challenges of trafficking. Meanwhile, William has an impressive background in law enforcement, having worked as an Investigative Sergeant and Lieutenant. His experience in targeting child predators and supervising crucial investigations adds another layer of depth to the team.

A Growing Challenge

The urgency for this expansion is real. Augusta has become a hotspot for human trafficking, and it has been noted that the need for increased action is crucial. The funding for this initiative comes from the state’s AFY 25 budget, recently approved by the General Assembly and Governor Brian Kemp. This commitment shows just how serious the authorities are about eradicating this issue.

Past Success and Future Plans

Since the establishment of the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit in 2019, it has successfully secured over 50 convictions and assisted more than 200 children affected by trafficking. This shows a solid track record, but as the situation evolves, so must the responses. In 2021 alone, the National Human Trafficking Hotline reported 281 cases in Georgia involving a staggering 1,065 victims. The statistics are definitely sobering!

This newly-expanded team will focus on high-risk areas, including major roadways and online platforms, to foster an environment that makes it tougher for traffickers to operate while also actively protecting potential victims. Augusta is leading the charge against this dark issue, and the planned establishment of additional offices in Macon and Atlanta signals even broader efforts.

Local Impact and Community Involvement

Local organizations, such as Child Enrichment, are already noticing a dramatic spike in cases, especially in Richmond County. They’ve reported serving 1,203 children this year compared to 1,021 last year. This eye-catching increase only reinforces the necessity for a strategic approach to combat human trafficking effectively.

A Focus on Victims

The average victim in Georgia is typically a girl in grades sixth through eighth. It’s heart-wrenching to think about the young lives that are affected by this grave issue. The new unit has a clear mission: to not only bring traffickers to justice but to also rescue and support the victims caught in this web. This humane focus is essential, as victims deserve all the help they can get.

In Conclusion

All in all, the expansion of the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit brings a fresh wave of hope for Augusta. With a dedicated team in place and a community ready to back them, the goal is clear: make human trafficking a thing of the past. Together, we can create a safer and brighter future for our children and city!