A joint investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies has resulted in the arrest of four individuals on charges related to child exploitation. The agencies involved include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the District Attorney’s Office for the Middle Judicial Circuit of Georgia, the Emanuel County Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, as well as sheriff's offices and police departments from Candler County, Swainsboro, Savannah, and Sandy Springs.
The defendants named in federal complaints are Jhirmichael Williams, 34, charged with sex trafficking of a minor and production of child pornography; Bryon Willis, 53, charged with sex trafficking and attempted sex trafficking of a minor, enticement and attempted enticement of a minor, and possession of child pornography; Samantha Reese, 35, charged with production of child pornography and aiding and abetting; and Samantha Bradford, 30, charged with production and attempted production of child pornography as well as aiding and abetting.
United States Attorney Meg Heap commented on the outcome: “This investigation is a great example of multi-agency cooperation leading to the identification and arrest of those who sexually exploit children and to ensuring no continued harm came to their victims. We will continue to partner with our federal, state, and local counterparts to ensure perpetrators are identified and children saved from further unspeakable sexual acts.”
Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge at FBI Atlanta stated: “Few crimes are more disturbing than those that target children. The exploitation these victims endured is heartbreaking, but these arrests show what can be accomplished when dedicated law enforcement partners come together to protect the most vulnerable among us. The FBI will continue to stand with our partners and our communities to ensure those who harm children are held accountable.”
Tripp Fitzner, District Attorney for the Middle Judicial Circuit added: “There is no greater purpose as District Attorney than protecting children from abuse. This case was a textbook example of multi-agency cooperation and demonstrates what can be accomplished when we work together. My sincere thanks to United States Attorney Heap and her Assistant United States Attorneys and the FBI for their dedication to assisting us in protecting children in Emanuel County and beyond.”
Emanuel County Sheriff Jeffrey L. Brewer remarked: “When MJC DA Fitzner and I were briefed by our staff, we realized this investigation would span several jurisdictions. Southern District of Georgia U.S. Attorney Meg Heap and the FBI were contacted. They immediately responded with all their resources, uncovered a tremendous amount of evidence, and arrested four individuals quickly. I appreciate their willingness to respond and their speed in resolving this case. These are horrendous acts against innocent children who have absolutely no control over their circumstances. These acts carry a lifetime of devastating consequences for these children. There will be no tolerance for this!”
Authorities note that criminal complaints contain only charges; all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The investigation remains ongoing. The FBI encourages anyone with relevant information about this case or similar activities to call 1-800-CALL-FBI.