Surgeon among 12 arrested in sex trafficking operation, officials say

DOUGHERTY COUNTY, Ga. (WALB/Gray News) – Authorities in Georgia said a surgeon is among 12 people arrested in connection with a sex trafficking operation.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has provided more information about the suspects, including their names and employers.

They are listed as follows:

Alan Adkins, 46, of Dawson, GA (unknown employer)
Patrick Kelly Bushman, 52, of Baconton, GA (self-employed)
Daniel Alexander Chilel-Garcia, 17, of Bronwood, GA (unknown employer)
Mason Conley, 32, of Cordele, GA (Better Brands of South Georgia)
Michael Saxton Evans, 43, of Albany, GA (self-employed)
Don Hill, 46, of Dawson, GA (Flint Equipment Holdings, Inc.)
Malcolm Tyrone Jefferson, 40, of Charlotte, NC (Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital)
Malik Yoba Lawrence, 26, of Leesburg, GA (Walmart)
Brandon Denard Mitchell, 41, of Arlington, GA (Pizza Hut)
Kyle Pack, 37, of Albany, GA (unknown employer)
William Price, 58, of Albany, GA (self-employed)
Paige Thomas, 40, of Alexandria, VA (unknown employer)

All 12 suspects have been charged with pandering.

The GBI also said additional charges and arrested may be forthcoming.

According to the agency’s release, “Operation Raydiant Shadows” took several months of planning and involved several law enforcement agencies.

The suspects reportedly traveled in areas around Dougherty County with the intent to purchase sex or sell sex commercially, according to the GBI.

Jefferson is listed as a thoracic and cardiothoracic surgeon.

The Phoebe Putney Health System issued a statement in response to a request for comment.

“Dr. Jefferson is a thoracic surgeon who joined Phoebe in September of this year. He has an exemplary professional record and has been a valued member of our clinical team since his arrival,” the statement reads. “We are aware of a recent misdemeanor charge that is unrelated to his employment at Phoebe. Considering this is an active investigation, we are unable to provide additional details at this time.”

“We respect the investigative process and will continue to monitor the situation closely,” the statement continues. “Our priority remains providing high-quality, compassionate care to the patients and communities we serve.”