DeKalb GA News

First Lady Marty Kemp has announced the appointment of Chris Hosey and Ryan Buchanan to lead the Georgians for Refuge, Action, Compassion, and Education (GRACE) Commission, an initiative focused on addressing human trafficking in Georgia. Hosey, the Director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, will serve as Co-Chair of the Commission, bringing 35 years of experience in law enforcement to the role. Buchanan, the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia, will join the Commission as a member, leading federal law enforcement efforts in combating human trafficking.

In a press release by the Governor's office, First Lady Marty Kemp emphasized the importance of a united effort to end human trafficking in Georgia. She expressed her pride in welcoming Hosey and Buchanan to the GRACE Commission, highlighting their experience in law enforcement and the judicial system as vital to keeping Georgia a safe haven for survivors and a hostile environment for traffickers and buyers. Kemp looks forward to their unique perspectives informing the Commission's efforts to eradicate this "evil industry" from the state.

Hosey's extensive career at the Georgia Bureau of Investigation includes holding multiple supervisor roles within the Investigative Division and contributing to key initiatives in drug enforcement and training. Throughout his tenure, Hosey has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing GBI operations, serving in various capacities and assuming leadership positions within the organization.

Buchanan, appointed as the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia in November 2021, oversees criminal and civil cases in the district, which serves over seven million people. He leads a team of prosecutors and support personnel in enforcing federal law and representing the United States in matters such as terrorism, organized crime, civil rights violations, and financial fraud.

The GRACE Commission's mission is to address the pervasive issue of human trafficking in Georgia, recognizing the estimated 1.5 million victims nationwide. The initiative aims to combat this form of modern-day slavery through a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders and a multidisciplinary approach.

The Office of the Attorney General of Georgia has also established a Human Trafficking Unit as a statewide initiative to combat human trafficking. This unit fosters collaboration between law enforcement at various levels and comprises specialized prosecutors, criminal investigators, analysts, and a victim advocate. In 2022 alone, the unit has been involved in 33 case investigations and provided support to 116 victims.

With the appointment of Hosey and Buchanan, the GRACE Commission is poised to make significant strides in the fight against human trafficking in Georgia. Their expertise and leadership will contribute to the Commission's efforts to create a safer environment for survivors and hold traffickers accountable for their crimes.