Two arrested during sting operation

Banks County Sheriff Charles Chapman reported investigators were working a case where business cards advertising an escort service were being placed on vehicles in the Banks Crossing area.

“Over the past few days cards had been placed in several different locations,” Chapman said.

Undercover officers set up a sting at a motel in the Interstate 85 area and when money changed hands two people were arrested, Chapman reported.

Tonya Kaye Bavendam, 31, McConnell Drive, Gainesville, was arrested and charged with prostitution and Justin Rick Garmon, 27, Riley Farm Road, Lula, was arrested and charged with pimping.

Both individuals were booked in to the Banks County jail on these charges.

The investigation continues by the BCSO investigation division.