Pentagon schools administrator arrested in human trafficking sting

Stephen Francis Hovanic, 64, of Sharpsburg, Georgia, was arrested for suspicion of pandering on Nov. 15, according to the Coweta County Sheriff's Office, Daily Caller reports.

Hovanic works as Chief of Staff for the Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) in Peachtree City, and is employed by the Americas division of the DoD. He was appointed to the position in 2010, according to his biography on the DODEA website.

In addition to Hovanic, law enforcement arrested 25 others during the human trafficking operation which led to the rescue of six victims. The sting was organized by the Coweta County Sheriff's Office and the Haralson County Sheriff's Office and was conducted over the course of two days.

Haralson County officials said a total of 26 people were arrested which includes 12 for prostitution, 10 for pandering, and four for pimping. Three suspects are currently under investigation for human trafficking and drug charges, police said.

A Department of Defense spokesperson told Daily Caller that the agency is investigating the situation and that Hovanic has been placed on leave.

"We are aware of an alleged incident involving a DoDEA employee in the Americas Region. As there are ongoing legal processes, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time. Any questions regarding the incident should be directed to the local law enforcement agency involved," the spokesperson said.

The following include the arrests and charges: Miguel Garcia, Pandering; Davian Harding, pandering; Deontavius Pittman, pandering, possession of ecstasy; Octavian Brown, pandering, possession w/intent to distribute; Jose Gonzalez-Avarca, pandering; Stephen Hovanic, pandering; Michael Matherne, pandering; Donald McGaha, pandering; Victor O. Alvarez Martinez, pimping, to be indicted on Human Trafficking; Juan Puente pimping; to be indicted on Human Trafficking; Prince Antoine, pimping; Phillip Floyd, pandering; Sergio J DeArmas Alfaras, pimping, investigating further; and Christopher Allen, pandering.