Two Gordon County residents were among 11 suspects arrested in a regional sting targeting online child predators, law enforcement announced today. The arrests came as part of Operation H.O.O.K. (“Hands Off Our Kids”), a four‑day undercover probe by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office, and their partner agencies.
Corey Daniel Huff and Brandon Bolick, both of Gordon County, face human trafficking-related charges. Sheriff Darren Pierce described all 11 men arrested as among “the sickest types of criminals,” saying the operation was designed to covertly identify and arrest individuals attempting to sexually exploit minors.
GBI Agent Brian Johnson said the suspects used dating websites and social media to lure children, and noted the state has received more than 38,000 cyber tips this year that helped fuel the investigation.
Among others arrested:
Jonathan Monroe, Catoosa County — Attempted sex trafficking
Vaughn Scarbrough, Dandridge, TN — Attempted sex trafficking
Enrique Lopez, Whitfield County — Human trafficking
Joshua Molina, Whitfield County — Child exploitation by electronic means
Rolando Mendez-Bamaca, Bradley County, TN — Human trafficking
Mark Antonio Andrade, Whitfield County — Child exploitation by electronic means
Daniel Joseph Clark, Whitfield County — Human trafficking
Swami Shinde, Bradley County, TN — Human trafficking
Jared Miles Malbrough, Cobb County — Human trafficking
Officials also revealed that Joshua Molina is linked to the Surenos 13 gang, and Rolando Mendez-Bamaca is reportedly in the country illegally.
Sheriff Pierce urged parents to educate their children about the dangers of online predators and to monitor internet activity closely. “This operation may be over, but the threat is ongoing,” he said.
Investigators say more charges or arrests could follow as digital evidence continues to be processed.
