CAIRO, Ga. (WALB) — Investigators have arrested three men following a search warrant execution at a fenced-off property in Grady County that neighbors referred to as “the compound.”

The operation, conducted after a tip from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force, uncovered a makeshift residential community operating amid deteriorating conditions.

What Investigators Found

The property at the end of Sunset Lane housed far more than what was initially apparent. Behind the main residence, authorities discovered approximately 15 to 20 people living in RVs, campers and converted sheds.

“There were exposed wires when you walk into a building. Just floors that are rotten out there. So, it took a while. It took a lot of help,” a law enforcement official told investigators during the operation.

Despite the residential population on the property, no children were found during the search warrant execution, according to Captain Levi Newberry of the Grady County Sheriff Department.

Three Arrests Made

Robert Earl Miller and Randy Benard White each face child exploitation charges. Investigators say both men were downloading images and videos of children from the dark web.

A third man, John Clifton Peo, was arrested on drug possession charges.

A Community Problem Solved

The compound had long been a source of concern for the surrounding neighborhood. Police said they responded to the residence many times for disturbances and domestic issues.

“It was very successful. Everything worked out like we wanted it to. Nobody got hurt. Everybody that was there complied,” Captain Newberry said, reflecting on the operation’s outcome.

Community Response

The impact of the operation resonated with neighbors. As officials concluded their search and prepared to leave the scene, residents lined the street, clapping and thanking law enforcement for their efforts.

The sheriff’s office said it remains committed to protecting the community through continued investigations and enforcement efforts like this one.

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