Story Published:
Feb 8, 2008 at 12:02 AM EST
Story Updated:
May 6, 2008 at 2:54 PM EST
Ten men are charged with soliciting undercover deputies for sex. Deputies arrested the men Thursday at two different public recreation areas. In all cases it was men seeking men.
Investigators received several calls from people who say they saw men having sex in broad daylight at Pendleton King Park and the Augusta Canal. Some of the callers also said they were offered sex.
Officers arrested the men during an operation conducted by Richmond County's Vice Division and Crime Suppression Team at Pendleton King Park and the Augusta Canal near Lake Olmstead.
"While you have kids playing, people trying to enjoy a peaceful lunch, you have guys showing up, wanting to solicit each other for sex," said Sgt. Richard Elim, Richmond County Sheriff's Office.
Investigators spent weeks scoping out Pendleton King Park and the Canal.
NBC Augusta was the only station to get pictures of what deputies are calling a sex camp. They found condoms, pornographic pictures, and lubricants.
"They aren't trying to hide where they are having it. Anyone can walk in on these actions," said Elim.
Investigators say they're hoping Thursday's busts will send a strong message to violators.
"We'll be back in those areas, so if they come back, we'll be back," said Elim.
The men arrested range in age 41 to 81 and they're charged with misdemeanors.
One of the suspects has an extensive criminal history, including child molestation. They arrested men from all walks of life including an insurance salesman and a physical therapist.
Thursday, Mar 6 at 5:33 PM lariat9848 wrote ...
they are going to solicit the wrong one up there one of these days and its gonna get ugly..