Columbia County families gathered in the Evans Middle School cafeteria on Monday evening for the district’s second “Let’s Talk” informational session. The parent forum aimed to help parents understand the rapidly evolving risks children face on social media, gaming platforms, and electronic devices.
The panel included GBI Special Agent Kaitlin Payne, District Training Officer Sgt. Lee Peck, Judge Charles Evans, and Rodney Brown, assistant chief of the Columbia County Juvenile Court.
Payne, who has also worked with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, emphasized that predators rarely appear as they seem.
Read more: District 2 Commissioner Jim Steed takes oath of office
“An online predator can be anything and anybody,” she said. “A lot of times children believe they know who they’re talking to… and in reality, that is not who is on the other side of that screen.”
How predators move from games to private apps
She explained that many cases begin on seemingly harmless platforms such as Roblox, Minecraft or Fortnite before predators attempt to move children to private messaging apps like Discord, Snapchat, or Telegram.
Read more: Wimberly sworn in as District 4 commissioner after special election win
Payne also added that the predator’s goal is often to obtain explicit images or videos from children they meet online.
“Their goal is to obtain explicit images and videos, and it occurs on social media, networking sites, and games,” Payne said.
Warning signs families shouldn’t ignore
Parents were informed to watch for warning signs such as secrecy about apps and children switching screens when an adult walks in. They should also look out for new online “friends” with unclear identities and unexpected gifts arriving from unknown senders.
Read more: Doctors Hospital celebrates new freestanding ER hospital in Evans
Phones open the door to strangers in your home
Juvenile Court Assistant Chief Rodney Brown reminded families that smartphones create a direct line from strangers into the home.
“Having a cell phone is inviting strangers into your house, unbeknownst to you,” Brown said. He also noted that conflicts between students often continue on their phones long after the school day ends, and digital threats or explicit images can quickly become legal matters. “Just be investigators with your kids. Pay attention to their demeanor. Go through those phones,” said Brown.
Judge Charles Evans urged parents to stay actively involved in their children’s digital lives, even when it requires uncomfortable oversight.
“Your child is a precious gift in your hands,” Evans said. Evans also made it very clear parents should not be scared to check their child’s phone. “Do not fear being hypocrite for your child. That is your phone too.”
The district closed the evening by encouraging families to build device-free routines. This means setting charging stations outside bedrooms, use parental controls, and talk openly with children about their online experiences.
