A collaborative investigation between the Floyd County Police Department (FCPD) and the Polk County Police Department (PCPD) has led to the arrest of a registered sex offender from Cedartown on multiple severe felony charges, including trafficking of persons and grooming of minors.

Garry D. Hand, 65, of Cedartown, Georgia, was taken into custody following a lengthy investigation that revealed long-term exploitation of multiple minor victims across both counties.

The investigation was initiated in early August after officers were alerted to inappropriate contact between Hand and a 14-year-old minor female. As the investigation progressed, authorities uncovered a wider pattern of abuse stretching back several years, involving contact with multiple minor females and males.

On October 13, 2025, Hand was formally charged with trafficking of persons, photographing of minors by a registered sex offender, and grooming. These charges follow his original arrest in August, which included charges of grooming, sexual battery, and child molestation.

Grooming Tactics Detailed

Investigators revealed that Hand, a registered sex offender, routinely engaged in grooming behavior designed to establish trust and leverage over the underage victims. This conduct involved providing the minors with material goods and prohibited items, including food, electronics, clothing, alcohol, and vaping devices.

The scope and duration of the exploitation led authorities to upgrade the initial charges, reflecting the severe nature of the sustained interactions.

In a statement regarding the operation, the FCPD expressed gratitude for the successful inter-agency partnership.

“We were grateful to collaborate with the Polk County Police Department to come to a resolution in this case,” a spokesperson noted. “It is priority number one to keep our children safe.”

Authorities confirm that the investigation is active and ongoing as they continue to identify potential victims and gather additional evidence.

The Floyd County Police Department and the Polk County Police Department are appealing to the public for any information related to this case.

Contact Information for Tips:

If you have any additional information regarding Garry D. Hand, please contact:

Officer Mallory Boatfield of The Floyd County Police Department: (706) 235-7766
Sergeant Brandy Brady of the Polk County Police Department: (770) 748-7331