Julius Hunter: Georgia investigators search for victims of alleged predator

The setup

Real talk, the way people are getting targeted online is getting scary. Investigators in Georgia are currently trying to track down more potential victims of Julius Hunter, a 42-year-old man who allegedly used Craigslist ads to lure women under the guise of babysitting, modeling, or massage gigs. It’s giving major 'stranger danger' vibes in the worst way.

The case

The investigation really kicked off when a 19-year-old was targeted back in 2016. She thought she was heading to a $300 overnight babysitting job in Clarkston, Georgia. When she showed up at the apartment, there were no kids—just Hunter and another unidentified man. The situation turned horrific, as authorities say Hunter stopped her from leaving and assaulted her for hours before finally letting her go the next day. She eventually managed to flag down a cab and call for help.

For years, that specific case went cold. While investigators had a DNA profile from the scene, it didn’t match anyone in the system—until Hunter was convicted of a separate sexual battery case in Florida in 2021. Once his DNA hit the national database (CODIS), it was a match. Now, authorities say his DNA is also linked to two other assaults in DeKalb and Gwinnett counties from 2016 and 2017.

Moving forward

Hunter was arrested in Fort Lauderdale this past August and has been extradited to Georgia. He’s currently facing charges for rape, aggravated sodomy, and kidnapping. DeKalb County District Attorney Investigator Brandi Rogers thinks there could be more victims out there, especially since Hunter grew up in New Jersey. The authorities are begging anyone who might have had a bad encounter to call their tip line at 404-371-2444. You don't have to press charges to get support, and honestly, if you're a survivor, say less—just reach out.

Why it matters

This case highlights the reality of how predators exploit the gig economy and online classifieds to target unsuspecting people. With the Georgia Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Task Force digging deeper, the goal is to make sure every victim gets the justice or at least the support they deserve, no cap.