The FBI Atlanta, in coordination with Homeland Security Investigations, the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office, the GBI, and other local agencies, carried out a series of federal search warrants on March 26th, targeting Wellmade Industries and multiple residences throughout the Bartow County region.
This action is part of an ongoing investigation into labor trafficking, with allegations that Wellmade Industries has been using fraudulent tactics and coercion to exploit Chinese nationals and other immigrant workers.
To support the investigation, the FBI deployed a team of 20 linguists and a victim specialist to assist in addressing the needs of numerous potential victims. Special agents were on-site, working to gather evidence and investigate claims of worker abuse.
Despite the heavy law enforcement presence in and around Cartersville, officials reassured the community that there was no immediate threat to public safety.
