A joint task force that included the Columbia Police Department worked together in an operation targeting those who were attempting to exploit or entice juveniles for sexual purposes, solicit prostitutes and to possibly identify prostitutes who are victims of human trafficking in the Pine Belt.
Six people were arrested in Columbia as part of the operation, police said in a news release.
Brandon L. Brumfield, 22, of Greensburg, La., and Derrick L. Lamont, 22, of Hattiesburg both are charged with enticement of a child to meet for sexual purposes. Bond was set for each at $100,000.
Matthew R. Maxie, 46, of Monticello, Gary Womack, 58, of Mendenhall, Samuel L. Bryant, 22, of Lumberton and Jonathan C. Jackson, 32, of Hattiesburg were all charged with procuring prostitution. Each one was given a citation, released and is expected to appear in court in February.
Police Chief Michael Kelly said the investigation is ongoing. They are actively working to identify who the victims might be and plan to continue these types of operations throughout the Pine Belt.
“We have heard the concerns from community regarding human trafficking. We appreciate your concerns and commit to do what we can,” he said.
Member of the Pine Belt Human Trafficking Taskforce that assisted in the Columbia Operation include the Columbia Police Department, Homeland Security, Mississippi Department of Corrections, Forrest County Sheriff’s Department, 12th District Narcotics Enforcement Team, HIDTA area task force, Purvis Police Department, Waveland Police Department, Hinds County Sheriff’s Department and Meridian Public Schools Campus Police.
