Former Cartersville Child Advocate Charged with Sexual Extortion, Forgery

Authorities say the suspect was immediately fired and the nonprofit is cooperating with investigators.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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A former senior leader at the Cartersville-based nonprofit Advocates for Children has been jailed on multiple felony charges unrelated to his direct work with the organization. Bartow County authorities say the suspect, whose name has not been released, faces charges of sexual extortion and forgery. The nonprofit says it terminated the employee immediately, tightened access, and is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation, stressing there is no indication any child in its care was harmed.

Why it matters

This case raises concerns about potential abuse of power and the need for robust oversight and safeguards at organizations that work with vulnerable children. It also highlights the importance of swift action and transparency when allegations of misconduct arise, to maintain public trust.

The details

According to reports, the former Advocates for Children employee is accused of committing sexual extortion and forgery, though the specific details of the charges have not been released. Investigators are still gathering information and have asked the public to come forward with any relevant tips or information.

  • The former employee was immediately terminated by Advocates for Children upon learning of the allegations.
  • Bartow County authorities have jailed the suspect on the multiple felony charges.

The players

Advocates for Children

A Cartersville-based nonprofit organization that provides advocacy and support services for children.

Bartow County Authorities

The local law enforcement agency investigating the charges against the former Advocates for Children employee.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage the public's trust in organizations that are meant to protect vulnerable children.”

— Robert Jenkins, Cartersville Resident (Cartersville Chronicle)

What’s next

Investigators are continuing to gather information and evidence in the case, and the judge will decide on the suspect's bail status in the coming days.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for rigorous background checks, oversight, and accountability measures at nonprofits and other organizations that work with children, to prevent abuse of power and maintain the public's trust.