Metro Atlanta teacher, corrections officer, U.S. customs agent arrested in trafficking sting

Written by: A. Smith

Published October 9, 2025 @ 10:00 AM ET

HENRY COUNTY, Ga. – A metro Atlanta high school teacher, a county jailer, and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection employee were among five people arrested in a trafficking and exploitation sting, according to authorities.

Henry County police and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation said they conducted an operation to arrest those attempting to purchase sex.

Five people were arrested and charged with pandering. Those arrested include Luella High School teacher Kerry Vanderford, U.S. Customs and Border Protection employee Darrolyn Simmons and Clarke County Sheriff’s Office jailer Isaac Irizarry. Scout Bigger and De’Montae Martin were also arrested and charged with pandering.

During the operation, one woman was rescued and given medical assistance.

All five suspects have since been released from jail.

Henry County Schools provided a statement about the situation: “We are aware that an employee was arrested recently for a personal matter unrelated to his employment with Henry County Schools. We are unable to share any further details regarding the matter at this time. This type of incident is taken seriously by our school and district, and the employee has been placed on administrative leave pending a thorough investigation.

“The safety and security of our students and staff is our utmost priority. There is no indication the employee’s arrest has anything to do with his role at Luella High School. However, please don’t hesitate to reach out to an administrator or counselor if you have any concerns or would like to speak with someone regarding this matter.”