Tiftonites Indicted in Human Smuggling

Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2021

Tifton, Georgia

478-227-7126 ~ www.tiftongrapevine.com

U.S. Attorney's Office photo

David H. Estes, acting U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, left, on Monday announces indictments in a human trafficking investigation. He is joined by law enforcement agents from across numerous federal, state, and local agencies.

3 TIFTON RESIDENTS AMONG 24 INDICTED FOR FORCED LABOR, HUMAN SMUGGLING

Three Tifton residents are among 24 defendants indicted on federal conspiracy charges after a transnational, multi-year investigation into a human smuggling and labor trafficking operation that illegally imported Mexican and Central American workers into "brutal conditions" on South Georgia farms.

The 54-count indictment in USA v. Patricio et al. details felony charges resulting from Operation Blooming Onion, an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces investigation. The multi-agency investigation, led by Homeland Security Investigations and other federal agencies, spans at least three years.

The indictment announced Monday documents dozens of victims of modern-day slavery while spelling out the illegal acts that brought exploited workers into the United States and imprisoned them under inhumane conditions as contract agricultural laborers, said David H. Estes, acting U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.

The Tifton residents indicted are:

Luis Alberto Martinez, aka “Chino Martinez,” 41, of Tifton, charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud; conspiracy to engage in forced labor; and conspiracy to commit money laundering;
Brett Donavan Bussey, 39, of Tifton, charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud; four counts of mail fraud; conspiracy to engage in forced labor; conspiracy to commit money laundering; and tampering with a witness; and
Linda Jean Facundo, 36, of Tifton, charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud; conspiracy to engage in forced labor; and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Among others indicted are residents of Douglas, Waycross, Alma, Nichols, Vidalia, Axon, Lyons, Collins, and Reidsville.

As described in the indictment, investigators from Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the FBI began investigating the Patricio transnational criminal organization in November 2018. The indictment alleges that in or before 2015, the conspirators and their associates “engaged in mail fraud, international forced labor trafficking, and money laundering, among other crimes,” fraudulently using the H-2A work visa program to smuggle foreign nationals from Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras into the U.S. under the pretext of serving as agricultural workers.

The activities occurred within the Southern, Middle, and Northern Districts of Georgia; the Middle District of Florida; the Southern District of Texas; and Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and elsewhere.

The conspirators required the workers to pay unlawful fees for transportation, food, and housing while illegally withholding their travel and identification documents, and subjected the workers “to perform physically demanding work for little or no pay, housing them in crowded, unsanitary, and degrading living conditions, and by threatening them with deportation and violence.”

Exploitation of the workers included being required to dig onions with their bare hands, paid 20 cents for each bucket harvested, and threatened with guns and violence to keep them in line. The workers were held in cramped, unsanitary quarters and fenced work camps with little or no food, limited plumbing and without safe water, according to the indictment.

The conspirators are accused of raping, kidnapping, and threatening or attempting to kill some of the workers or their families, and in many cases sold or traded the workers to other conspirators. At least two of the workers died as a result of workplace conditions, the indictment claims.

In the Southern District of Georgia, the activities were alleged to have taken place in the counties of Atkinson, Bacon, Coffee, Tattnall, Toombs, and Ware as farmers paid the conspirators to provide contract laborers.

The conspirators are alleged to have reaped more than $200 million from the illegal scheme, laundering the funds through cash purchases of land, homes, vehicles, and businesses; through cash purchases of cashier’s checks; and by funneling millions of dollars through a casino.

More than 200 law enforcement officers and federal agents from around the United States convened in the Southern District of Georgia to execute more than 20 federal search warrants at target locations.

DESPITE OUR WOES,

WE ARE STILL BLESSED

By FRANK SAYLES JR.

Tifton Grapevine

At times, bad news seems to be the only news we hear. Every week, there appears to be a shooting or an attack. Every other day, a bomb seems to explode somewhere in the world. Every day, there are examples to be found of man's inhumanity to his fellow man.

Yet, there is far more good than evil in our world. Every day, someone risks his own life to save another. Every day, a person lends a helping hand. Every day, someone quietly commits a good and honest act that may go unnoticed but has an effect throughout a community.

There may be numerous problems in the world and within our own country, but that has always been and will always be so. Humans throughout history ultimately and collectively rise and overcome adversity.

When we stand tall and really open our eyes, we can see the innate beauty in the world.

More than a half century ago, Lous Armstrong released a song, "What A Wonderful World," that comes to mind in this time of Thanksgiving, reminding us that we are truly blessed:

"I see trees of green, red roses too,

I see them bloom for me and you,

And I think to myself what a wonderful world.

"I see skies of blue and clouds of white,

The bright blessed day, the dark sacred night,

And I think to myself what a wonderful world.

"The colors of the rainbow, so pretty in the sky,

Are also on the faces of people going by;

I see friends shaking hands, saying how do you do,

They're really saying I love you.

"I hear babies crying, I watch them grow;

They'll learn much more than I'll ever know;

And I think to myself what a wonderful world."

Sometimes, we need to be reminded that it is, always, a wondrous and beautiful world. Let's be thankful for it and for all that is true and good.

Have a very happy Thanksgiving.

ASHBURN POLICE

'TALK TURKEY'

AT TRAFFIC STOPS

Click It or .... Turkey?

The Ashburn Police Department started its "Click It or Ticket" campaign last week to enforce seat-belt usage, but instead of issuing tickets the officers surprised offenders with turkeys.

"What better way to deliver the message of wearing your seat belt than receiving a Thanksgiving turkey instead of a ticket," the police department wrote on social media.

"Ashburn Police Department does believe in enforcing the law, but we are community oriented as well."

TIFT SEES 5 COVID CASES,

NO DEATHS IN PAST WEEK

By FRANK SAYLES JR.

Tifton Grapevine

Tift County recorded five new confirmed COVID-19 cases and no related deaths in the past week, according to data released Tuesday.

In the past two weeks, Tift has seen eight confirmed cases, representing 20 per 100,000. When rapid Antigen test results are added, Tift had 30 total cases during the period, representing 73 per 100,000., according to the state Department of Public Health (DPH).

Tift's testing positivity rate is 1.7% in the past two weeks. The county has a total of 4,882 confirmed cases with 139 related deaths, the DPH said.

The state has recorded a total of 1,280,748 confirmed cases with 25,621 deaths, the DPH reported. During the 24 hours between Monday and Tuesday, Georgia reported 939 new confirmed cases of the virus with 32 related deaths, and 127 new hospitalizations, the DPH said.

Friends, please join us for some Black Friday and Small Business Saturday fun! We will be having sales throughout the store,

one free gift per purchase while supplies last, and door prizes!

One lucky winner will receive a free 8-piece place setting of Christmas china! Refreshments will also be served!

Grab your friends and family, come see us, and let us help you

jump start your holiday shopping!

Retired ABAC administrator Melvin L. Merrill speaks during the recent ceremony honoring him with the naming of the college's Veteran Center.

ABAC HONORS MELVIN MERRILL

WITH VETERANS CENTER NAME

In a salute on Veterans Day, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College dedicated the Melvin L. Merrill Veterans Center to a longstanding administrator who made his mark at ABAC during a 42-year career.

“Melvin Merrill has distinguished himself with his service to his country and to this college,” ABAC President David Bridges said. “He is a man who believes in doing things the right way.”

Merrill served 29 years in the U.S. Army Reserve before retiring with the rank of major in 1993. He also occupied an administrative position at ABAC for 42 years, first as development director then chief development officer, foundation president, and capital planning director.

Merrill was instrumental in the design and construction of the Veterans Center, now located in the renovated Carlton Center. Its original location was in J. Lamar Branch Hall. Students who are veterans use the area as a place to study and relax, while acquainting themselves with others who also served in the military.

“Veterans Day means something special to me every year,” Merrill said. “With this honor, this day takes on extra special significance. I am humbled by the idea and appreciative of the recognition. It’s one of the best honors I have ever had.”

KIWANIS RUN TO 'PINCH THE GRINCH'

The 17th Annual Kiwanis Run for the Kids is scheduled at 8 a.m. Saturday,

Dec. 4.

This year's event theme is "Pinch the

Grinch 5K and Fun Run" and is being held in conjunction with Tifton's downtown holiday celebration.

The run raises money for local children's programs, promotes physical fitness in the community, and highlights Tifton's historic district.

The one-mile flat course starts/ends at the corner of Forrest Avenue and Fourth Street across from the Tifton water tower. Entry is $25 (5K) and $15 (one mile) before Nov. 27; there is a $5 late fee thereafter. Participants are guaranteed a long-sleeved tri-blend T-shirt, race bib, Kiwanis lunch meeting ticket, medallions to each child participating, and Christmas present prizes. Cash awards are presented to overall and masters male and female winners.

TIFTON

2012 Pineview Ave. Tifton, Ga 31793

HIGHLY RANKED TIFT BLUE DEVIL CREATES BUZZ IN VISITING FSU

Tift County High Blue Devil Tyre West, considered one of the top defensive line prospects in the nation, got sports websites buzzing last week when the senior made an unofficial visit to Florida State University.

West, who has been a star defensive end for Tift County, has long been committed to play for the University of Georgia.

The 247Sports website, who has named West among the top prospects in the class of 2022, reported that his name has also recently been linked to the University of Tennessee. At least 10 schools have reportedly made offers to West.

The website Warchant.com noted that West made a surprise visit the FSU campus last week, touring the college and attending the Seminoles' Wednesday practice with the team.

Following his visit, West told the website that FSU is “close to his heart; I’ll put it at that." He added that he believes the FSU coaching staff “will take care of me if I come here.”

Among his accolades, West was the Touchdown Club of Atlanta’s Defensive Player of the Week following the Blue Devils win over Camden County this season.

ABAC BOARDWALK LETS STUDENTS, RESIDENTS GET CLOSER TO NATURE

The Nature Study Area (NSA) at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College recently received a facelift with a new boardwalk constructed by students majoring in natural resource management.

A wildlife viewing grant for $2,097 from the Ga. Department of Natural Resources, along with financial support from the ABAC administration, funded the boardwalk materials and construction.

“The Nature Study Area on the ABAC campus is one of only two public nature trails in Tift County,” said Dr. Mark Kistler, dean of the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources “These repairs and improvements will not only allow our students to have a safe and enjoyable hike but will also benefit Tifton area residents who frequently walk, jog, and ride their bicycles through our campus.”

Dr. Vanessa Lane, associate professor of wildlife ecology and management and a certified wildlife biologist, said the boardwalk allows students easier access.

“Students are directly involved with habitat management at the Nature Study Area, which gives ample opportunities for hands-on learning to acquire skills essential for forest and wildlife managers,” Lane said. “Our students regularly participate in invasive species control, prescribed fire, plant identification and propagation, forest mensuration, orienteering, and even the maintenance of the facilities."

Phoebe Beard of Ashburn, a natural resource management student with a concentration in wildlife, said she visits the NSA almost daily as part of her classes.

“The construction of a safe, sturdy walkway means we can walk further into the NSA without stepping in mud and briars, disturbing wildlife, or trampling sensitive plants,” Beard said. “The NSA is one of my favorite places because it provides first-hand experiences and is key to learning how to identify trees, plants, and the wildlife that live there.”

HOLIDAY TRAVEL: Make Safety a Priority

Source: FAMILY FEATURES

As more Americans hit the road and return to traveling for the holidays, concerns around road safety are top of mind.

More than half of Americans (51%) plan to travel for Christmas, according to a survey by 3M. A majority (76%) plan to travel by car, but more than a third of travelers are as concerned about road safety as they are about contracting COVID-19.

"Especially after spending an extended period closer to home, many people are likely to have some trepidation about getting back out on the road," said automotive expert Lauren Fix, "The Car Coach" and 3M spokesperson. "Being conscious of issues like visibility and distracted driving are important ways to protect yourself and your passengers."

Consider these tips to enhance the safety of your holiday travel:

Before You Go

Check your tire pressure and the condition of your tread. Properly inflated and adequate tires can keep you safe on the road, especially in slick conditions.

Visibility is important so you can see the road and other drivers. Make sure you have properly functioning wiper blades and carry extra washer fluid. Check your headlights to ensure they both work and your lenses aren't hazy.

Use your GPS to help you plan the best time to leave for your road trip, avoiding the major rush hours.

Make sure your car has an emergency kit. Include a first aid kit, blanket, drinking water, flashlight, reflective triangles and a reflective vest to keep you visible to other vehicles if you are working on your car on the side of the road or need to walk to get help.

While On the Road

Keep your focus on the road and stay off your phone. Also be aware of the other vehicles and drivers around you.

Use GPS to re-route around construction or congestion. If you do come across construction, be sure to keep a close eye on the roadway signage and markings.

If you find yourself driving in bad weather and visibility is an issue, pay attention to road markings to keep yourself oriented to the roadway. If you have no visibility, pull over.

PEANUT SYMPOSIUM TO BE HELD IN TIFTON

The American Peanut Council, along with the University of Georgia, University of Florida, and Fort Valley State University, is hosting a U.S. Peanut Quality Symposium on Nov. 29-30 in Tifton.

The symposium is designed to drive coordination and collaboration in research and innovation as it relates to aflatoxin research in the U.S. peanut industry. The symposium will provide a forum to learn from other industries and brainstorm new research solutions throughout the peanut supply chain to drive quality improvements.

The goal is to develop research priorities using participant feedback to enhance peanut quality in U.S. and world markets.

TIFTON KOA EARNS TOP

COMPANY RECOGNITION AWARDS

Kampgrounds of America (KOA) recently announced that the Tifton KOA Journey Campground has earned the 2022 KOA President’s Award and KOA Founder’s Award.

The awards were presented recently at KOA’s annual international convention in Baton Rouge, La.

The Founder’s Award, named in honor of Dave Drum, who founded KOA on the banks of the Yellowstone River in Montana in 1962, is KOA’s highest service award, the company said. It is awarded exclusively to KOA campground owners and managers who attain world-class scores in both customer service and the KOA Quality Review.

The President’s Award is presented to campgrounds meeting exceptional quality standards and who receive high customer service scores from camping guests. KOA surveys hundreds of thousands of campers each year regarding their KOA camping experience.

TIFTON GRAPEVINE'S CAT OF THE WEEK

"Dusky" is ready for a good home. To adopt this kitten and to see other pets available for adoption, visit the Tift County Animal Shelter from 1-6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, or call 229-382-PETS (7387).

Pets of the Week are sponsored by:

Branch's Veterinary Clinic

205 Belmont Ave., Tifton, 229-382-6055

'HALLELUJAH DAY HAS COME'

NOV. 23, 1906

On Nov. 23, 1906, Tifton was awarded the site of the state's new Second District A&M (Agricultural and Mechanical) School, the forerunner of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. "The Hallelujah Day Has Come, Tifton Lands the A&M School," proclaimed a headline in The Tifton Gazette.

Tifton had bid for the school along with Albany, Camilla, Pelham, and Ashburn. During the bidding process, Henry H. Tift presented an amended bid of $55,000 in cash, free lights, water and telephone service for 10 years, a sewage system and 315 acres worth $50 per acre. Later, learning that the timber on the land was desired for forestry study, he also contributed the timber, a value of $4,500. "The raise of $25,000 at a jump caused the audience to catch its breath," the newspaper reported.