Share and Follow
Atlanta, Ga. — With over 200,000 visitors and tourists descending on Augusta for The Masters Tournament, state authorities are increasing their efforts to tackle human trafficking amid one of the year’s busiest weeks.
Officials caution that large events often present opportunities for traffickers to prey on vulnerable individuals, prompting a unified response from law enforcement agencies throughout the state.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has announced that officers will be out in full force during the tournament week. This includes undercover agents tasked with identifying and disrupting trafficking operations. Investigators will also be closely scrutinizing online advertisements to detect any signs of exploitation.
“If you see an adult and child who do not seem to interact naturally, appear disheveled, or are traveling without luggage, these could be potential warning signs,” explained Chris Carr. “When officers manage to separate them and ask questions, we can intervene and provide help.”
Authorities have indicated that the GBI is collaborating with local sheriff’s offices to establish specialized “HEAT units.” These units will focus on monitoring major travel routes such as Interstate 20, a significant entryway into Augusta.
Meanwhile, the Georgia Secretary of State has relaunched its “Georgia Businesses Against Trafficking” initiative. The program aims to train hotel staff, first responders, and other business owners to recognize warning signs and report suspicious activity, particularly during high-traffic events.
Carr says while Georgia has made significant investments in combating trafficking, large gatherings — combined with the state’s major transportation hubs — can increase the risk.
“When you have big events, major airports, and a strong logistics network, there are people who will try to take advantage of that,” Carr said. “But we’ve made it clear — we’re not going to tolerate it, and we’re going after those targeting children.”
Investigators say common warning signs include multiple young women accompanied by an older individual in locations such as hotels, restaurants, or tattoo parlors.
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Atlanta is among the top cities in the country for child sex trafficking. State data shows more than 370 girls are trafficked each month in Georgia.
Investigators say the average age of a trafficking victim in the state is just 15 years old.