09/16/2026
Sexual exploitation is not something happening “somewhere else.” It is happening here.
A recent GBI investigation in Macon led to the arrests of two local residents after authorities investigated the online possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material. The case is another reminder that sexual exploitation exists in our own community, often behind ordinary doors, screens, relationships, and circumstances that may not immediately look dangerous from the outside.
And this is important to understand:
Sexual exploitation does not always look like what people imagine when they hear the words “human trafficking.”
Exploitation can involve coercion, manipulation, threats, financial control, abuse of vulnerability, online exploitation, someone profiting from another person’s sexual activity, or situations where a person does not truly have a safe or realistic choice.
It can happen in hotels.
In homes.
In clubs.
In relationships.
Online.
And in communities that look just like ours.
That is why education matters.
When we understand what exploitation actually looks like, we become better equipped to recognize vulnerability, respond without judgment, and connect people with help.
At J2:18, part of our mission is helping Middle Georgia become a community that can recognize exploitation, understand it, and respond with compassion and action.
This is happening here. Awareness is one of the first steps toward changing it.
https://www.41nbc.com/macon-arrests-gbi-child-exploitation-investigation/
While this case is still unfolding and we do not know all of the details, it is important to remember that those accused are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The GBI arrested Scott Howard and Sally Howard after a child exploitation investigation led agents to a home in Macon. from 41NBC News | WMGT-DT