BYRON, Ga. (WGXA) — 12 men were arrested for allegedly sexually exploiting children online in Bryon.

Last week, investigators with the Byron Police Department (BPD) and the Peach County Sheriff's Office conducted "Operation Not Here," which involved establishing an online presence to arrest individuals attempting to sexually exploit male and female minors, according to BPD.

LOCAL NEWS | Nine Fort Valley State football players suspended after homecoming game brawl

Both departments were trained and assisted by the Covenant Rescue Group, a non-profit organization that trains law enforcement on how to rescue victims and arrest those attempting to commit human trafficking and child exploitation crimes.

The following individuals were arrested and charged with obscene internet contact with a child, using a computer service to seduce, solicit, lure, or entice a child to commit illegal acts.

• Dennis Jacques, 65, from Lizella.
• Antwan Devere, 32, from Macon.
• Avery Simmons, 32, from Rincon.
• Shedrick Smith, 33, from Warner Robins.
• Mikel Williams, 44, from Warner Robins.
• Timothy Newm, 49, from Milledgeville, who also had outstanding felony warrants from Indiana.
• Yohannas Hollis, 29, from Perry.
• Joshua Ball, 36, from Dry Branch.
• Eddie Torres, 24, Spartanburg.
• Derrick Cooper, 33, Macon.
• Malik Boykins, 29, Perry.
• Amarion Vance, 19, Warner Robins.

"The citizens of Peach County and law enforcement in Peach County will not tolerate this activity. Combining our resources and working with the Covenant Rescue Group enables our departments to be proactive in protecting our citizens and, more importantly, our children," BPD wrote.

Stick with WGXA as we learn more and keep you ready for what's next.