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Written by: A. Smith
Published November 20, 2025 @ 9:36 AM ET
MONROE COUNTY, Ga. – A Georgia man who attempted to sell a teenage girl on the dark web has been sentenced to life in prison to serve 50 years after pleading guilty to a series of child sex crimes spanning Monroe and Jasper counties.
Kelly Garrett Ivey, 43, pleaded guilty Tuesday to trafficking of persons for sexual servitude, first-degree cruelty to children, criminal attempt to commit rape, and several related charges, according to the Ocmulgee District Attorney’s Office.
Prosecutors said the case began in 2023 when investigators learned Ivey had attempted to sell a 16-year-old girl on a dark-web marketplace known as “Slave Bay.” According to the indictment, Ivey posted a photo of the teen and offered—for a price—to provide details about her daily routine, where she attended school, the car she drove, and other personal information for the purpose of helping others kidnap and sexually assault her.
The indictment also indicated there were at least two additional alleged victims.
According to prosecutors, an examination of Ivey’s electronic devices revealed that he used the child’s social media photos and posts to attract “child molesters,” and that he planned to offer the teen for sex to “perverts, sexual deviants, and criminals.” The FBI intervened before the plot could advance further.
The victim’s mother said they did not know Ivey personally but recognized him because he had once volunteered at their church. She said her family was stunned when investigators arrived at their door.
Following the sentencing, the district attorney urged vigilance among adults who work with or supervise children.
“Parents, teachers, and anyone else that works with children, please be aware that evil walks among us every day,” the district attorney said. “Know the people that hang around your children. Report suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately. That hunch you have may save a child.”
Anyone who may be in danger or who has information about human trafficking can call the Georgia Human Trafficking Hotline at 866-363-4842.