GBI Investigating Officer Involved Shooting In Gordon County
At the request of the Georgia State Patrol, GBI agents are investigating an officer involved shooting in Gordon County. One man was injured in the incident. No officers were injured.
The preliminary investigation shows that Georgia State Patrol SWAT was assisting the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office with the arrest of a murder suspect. The suspect, later identified as Christopher Lee Dixon, age 46, of Resaca, GA, was found underneath a trailer in a crawl space, and GSP troopers attempted to remove Dixon from the crawl space. The troopers used a Taser, but Dixon continued to fight with the troopers. During the struggle, the troopers shot Dixon. Dixon was armed with a rifle. After Dixon was shot, he continued to fight the troopers and resist arrest. Dixon was eventually taken into custody and to a local hospital with minor injuries. Once treated, he will be taken to the Gordon County Jail.
The Gordon County Sheriff’s Office issued arson and murder warrants.
The GBI will conduct an independent investigation. Once complete, the case file will be given to the Gordon County District Attorney’s Office for review.
Continued Warm Weather & More Rain On The Way
Well above normal temperatures are expected through the weekend, with an unsettled pattern bringing scattered showers through Friday for Northwest Georgia. Light rain is anticipated over our area Saturday night and Sunday morning. Heavier and more widespread rain is forecast for next Tuesday and Wednesday. Today, we will see cloudy skies with a 50% chance of rain and highs in the low to mid 70s.
In the short term, warm weather will continue with scattered showers. There are no significant weather concerns. A zonal flow pattern will cause clouds and showers, but no strong storms are expected. Afternoon convection is likely here in Northwest Georgia. There may be patchy dense fog in some areas this morning, which will clear by 10 AM.
In the long term, a quasi-zonal upper pattern will persist, bringing weak frontal systems and moisture into the area. Isolated to scattered showers are possible mainly Saturday night and Sunday morning, with light rainfall expected. A more significant frontal system will move in early next week, leading to increased rainfall amounts, especially north of Atlanta. Temperatures will remain warm through the weekend, with a slight cool down next week.
Arrest Report - Thursday - February 6, 2025
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, February 6, 2025:
Summerville Police Investigate Theft Of Services
A recent report from the Summerville Police Department involved a report of theft of services that occurred on January 29th. An officer was dispatched to 42 Cherokee Street after city employees reported tampering with a water meter. Upon arrival, the officer met with city officials who revealed that an unknown individual had manipulated the cut-off lock on the water meter, reinstating water service that had been terminated. According to the city employees, the water supply had been shut off on January 11, 2025, but was unexpectedly turned back on just a few days later, on January 20, 2025. The investigation revealed that the total value of the water consumed during this unauthorized period amounted to $214.89. However, upon further examination of the property in question, it appeared that the residence had been abandoned. No suspects were named in the report.
Cody Kirk Sentenced In Chattooga County Superior Court
A 21-year-old man from Spring Creek Road in Trion has been sentenced this week in Chattooga County Superior Court following serious charges of child molestation and enticing a child for indecent purposes.
Cody Anthony Kirk was arrested in May 2022 after an investigation initiated by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation began when a concerned parent reported to the sheriff’s office that Kirk had been sending her son inappropriate sexual messages via text. The child’s mother expressed her alarm and outrage, revealing that she had discovered texts in which Kirk allegedly attempted to pay the juvenile for sexual acts. In a chilling account, she stated that some of the messages urged the child to meet him in a “secret place” for sexual activities. According to Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader, investigators worked diligently to compile evidence against Kirk, leading to charges of enticing a child for indecent purposes. When authorities approached Kirk to serve the arrest warrant, he made a startling admission, claiming to have molested another child two years prior. While Sheriff Schrader confirmed that the two incidents were unrelated, Kirk’s confession provided sufficient grounds for additional child molestation charges.
Kirk pleaded guilty on both the charge of enticing a child for indecent purposes and child molestation. On Monday, Lookout Mountain Superior Court Judge Melissa Hise sentenced Kirk to 20 years in prison on the child molestation charge and 10 years probation on the enticing a child for indecent purposes charge.
Kirk must serve at least 8 years in prison before being eligible for parole.
Scouting For Food This Saturday In Chattooga County
Pack 38 and Troops 7B and 7G of the Northwest Georgia Council are gearing up for their annual Scouting for Food program, a community initiative aimed at addressing food insecurity in the region. This year, the drive will take place on Saturday, February 8, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at a Drive-Thru Collection site located on Ralph Stanley Drive, between the Scout Hut and the Tennis Courts.
In alignment with the Scout Promise, which emphasizes helping others at all times, the Scouting for Food program serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and service within the community. As scouts reflect on their own blessings of having regular meals, they are motivated to support those who may not have the same privilege. The food collected during this drive will be donated to the Community Resource Center of Chattooga County, ensuring that much-needed assistance is provided to local families facing food scarcity. Scouts are calling on community members to contribute non-perishable items, highlighting several essential products that are particularly needed, including: – Canned fruit and vegetables – Canned tuna, chicken, or salmon in water – Low-sodium canned or dried beans, peas, or lentils – Whole grain pasta and flour – Brown rice, barley, quinoa – Whole grain cereal – Shelf-stable milk (dairy, soy, rice, etc.) – Natural peanut butter (plastic containers only) – Olive or canola oil (plastic containers only) – Paper products – Diapers – Toiletries.
The Chattooga County Scout Program welcomes boys and girls from Kindergarten through 18 years of age. Families interested in learning more about scouting opportunities in the area can visit beascout.org for additional information. Join the Scouts on February 8 to lend a helping hand and support those in need within Chattooga County.
First Week Of February Is "Prescribed Fire Awareness Week" In Georgia
Americans are now becoming aware of “prescribed fire,” known as “good fire,” which Georgia foresters have promoted for its benefits in making forests healthier and improving safety for people. This contrasts with “bad fire,” like the wildfires recently seen in California. The first week of February, from February 2-8, 2025, is celebrated as “Prescribed Fire Awareness Week,” emphasizing the need for prescribed fires.
Prescribed burns, conducted by trained professionals, help decrease dangerous natural fuels in forested areas, particularly near urban zones, hence reducing the risk of severe wildfires and costly timber loss. This method is also effective for preparing land for planting by returning nutrients to the soil and clearing brush.
Another significant advantage of prescribed burning is the control of diseases that affect tree growth. Fire can eliminate diseased plant parts while sparing fire-resistant trees. It also benefits wildlife habitats and helps maintain biological diversity since many species depend on regular fires for survival.
In Georgia, trained foresters write prescribed burn plans, with the number of acres burned increasing annually. In 2023, 1. 3 million acres were burned, rising to 1. 5 million in 2024, some of which utilized drones for improved efficiency. The process includes thorough evaluations, planning, and safety measures.
From May 1 to September 30, there is a burn ban in 54 counties, including Chattooga and surrounding counties, to protect health due to ozone levels. Various assistance services are offered to landowners, who must initiate the fires with GFC support available.
You can learn more about the basics of Prescribed Burning here.
Richardson Appointed To Walker County Board Of Education
Last month, the Walker County Board of Education has announced the resignation of Stacey Meeks from the Post 4 School Board seat. Mr. Meeks, who was elected in November, had announced that he would be relocating to another area of the county and would be unable to fulfill his duties. In accordance with state law, the Board was required to appoint a replacement within 45 days of the resignation. Earlier this week, the board selected Kevin Richardson, a longtime Walker County educator, to fill the position. The vote to appoint Richardson was unanimous. In a post on social media on Tuesday, the Walker Board of Education welcomed Richardson and said that they looked forward to his serving on the school board.
Chattooga County Voters Set To Decide On Special Local Option Sales Tax Renewal In March
Voters in Chattooga County are being called back to the polls this March to make a significant decision regarding the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). The election is scheduled for March 18, where residents will have the opportunity to renew the county’s existing 1% sales tax aimed at funding crucial capital improvement projects.
Originally approved by the Georgia legislature in 1985, SPLOST has become an essential revenue source for counties across the state. In Chattooga County, the tax generates approximately $3.8 million annually, which helps to cover various infrastructure needs, including essential road paving and improvements. County Commissioner Andy Allen emphasized the importance of this renewal, stating, “On March 18th, we will ask voters to renew the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax. This collection significantly contributes to maintaining and enhancing our county’s infrastructure.” He clarified that this initiative is not about introducing a new tax, but rather continuing the existing SPLOST that has been in place for several years. If approved, the renewal will ensure ongoing funding for vital projects that directly impact the community’s quality of life.
Residents are encouraged to educate themselves on the benefits of SPLOST and to participate in the upcoming vote, as the outcome will play a critical role in the county’s financial planning and development for years to come.
Intoxicated Summerville Man Taken Into Custody Following Domestic Incident
According to a report released this week by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, On January 29, 2025, officers responded to a report of a domestic disturbance at 608 Rains Circle, in Summerville leading to the arrest of 46-year-old Shannon Matthew Bennet. The incident unfolded around 8:37 PM when law enforcement was dispatched to the scene regarding an intoxicated male. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with a witness who indicated that a verbal argument had occurred between her and Bennet.
Further investigation revealed that Bennet had ingested substances, including mushrooms possibly laced with fentanyl, as confirmed by another relative. When deputies approached Bennet, he exhibited signs of severe intoxication, sweating profusely in the chilly 40-degree weather, with bloodshot eyes and a rapid, confused manner of speaking. As Bennet attempted to walk away, fearing for his safety, officers issued multiple commands for him to stop. In defiance, Bennet stated, “I’m not going to jail!” and made alarming comments suggesting he wanted harm to come to himself. Deputies attempted to restrain Bennet, who continued to resist arrest. Deputies told Bennet that they would employ the use of a taser. According to the report, “shortly after this, Mr. Bennet was taken into custody”.
Bennet was subsequently transported to the Chattooga County Jail, where he was charged with Disorderly Conduct and Two counts of Willful Obstruction of Law Enforcement.
Tax Commissioner Issues Report On 2024 Tax Collections
Joy Hampton, the Tax Commissioner of Chattooga County, has shared the tax collection results for 2024, showing important financial data. In that year, the Tax Commissioner’s Office handled 28,448 payments and collected a total of $20,015,099. 30 from property taxes, interest, and fees. This amount includes $118,596. 04 collected for Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILOTS), which supports local government services.
By the year’s end, real property tax collections reached 77. 5%, but there are still outstanding balances due to ongoing appeals. The amounts owed include $1,590,729. 18 to the Chattooga County Commissioner, $1,756,866. 77 to Chattooga County Schools, $273. 71 to the Town of Lyerly, and $89. 56 to the City of Menlo. By January 31, 2025, collections increased to 84. 96%, with $881,786. 62 owed to the Chattooga County Commissioner and $984,462. 94 to Chattooga County Schools. No amounts are owed to Lyerly or Menlo, showing effective tax collection.
In 2024, 115 tax sales were initiated; 101 taxpayers paid or set up payment plans while 15 properties were sold.
A significant development in 2024 was the continued popularity of the prepay program, established in 2018 through SB216, which allows taxpayers to prepay towards their tax bills. This year, 69 parcels participated in this initiative, accumulating a total of $24,595.56 held in escrow and paid out promptly when tax bills became active.
You can see the complete report from Tax Commissioner Hampton here: 2024Annual Report (8.4 x 10.9 in) (PDF Viewer Required)
Summerville Water Department Announcement
Wednesday – 10:30 AM: The City of Summerville water department will be repairing a water leak on Briarwood Dr. Customers in this area may experience low or, in some cases, no water pressure. The repair is expected to take approximately three hours. If you have any questions, please contact the City of Summerville maintenance department at (706)859-0907.
Town of Trion Called Meeting Thursday
Warm Weather With A Chance Of Rain
Today, there is a slight chance of showers between noon and 3 PM, with a higher chance of showers and thunderstorms afterward. The weather is mostly cloudy with a high near 69°F and a 40% chance of precipitation. Tonight, showers and thunderstorms are likely before 4 AM, followed by a chance of showers. There may be patchy fog before 2 AM and after 5 AM. The temperature will drop to around 57°F, with a 70% chance of precipitation and new rainfall amounts between one-tenth and a quarter of an inch, potentially higher in storms.
On Thursday, there is a 40% chance of showers after 1 PM, with patchy fog in the morning. The day will be partly sunny with a high near 73°F. Thursday night will see showers mainly before 1 AM, with a low around 55°F and an 80% chance of precipitation.
Friday has a 30% chance of showers before 1 PM, cloudy skies, and a high near 66°F. Friday night brings a 20% chance of showers with a low of about 49°F.
Saturday will be partly sunny with a high near 75°F, but there’s a likelihood of showers Saturday night after 1 AM.
Sunday and Monday both have a chance of showers, with mostly cloudy skies and highs around 66°F and 58°F, respectively. Monday night is likely to see more showers with a low of around 44°F. Tuesday will bring showers with a high near 55°F and an 80% chance of precipitation.
Arrest Report- Wednesday - February 5, 2025
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, February 5, 2025:
Grand Jury Indicts 21 Georgia Residents for Alleged PPP Fraud
In a significant crackdown on fraud related to the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a grand jury in Mitchell County has indicted 21 residents of Camilla for allegedly defrauding the relief fund designed to assist small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr, the accused individuals are charged with submitting fraudulent loan applications by falsely claiming ownership of non-existent businesses and providing fabricated financial information. These actions were purportedly aimed at exploiting the PPP, which was established to support genuine small businesses struggling to survive through the economic challenges posed by the pandemic. Attorney General Carr emphasized the serious nature of the allegations, stating, “The PPP was meant to help real small businesses stay afloat and pay employees during the pandemic. Those who attempt to take advantage of this program undermine the very purpose it was designed to serve.” The indictments reveal a troubling trend of fraudulent activity as the government rolled out financial assistance to combat the economic impact of COVID-19. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity in the application process and the consequences of attempting to exploit federal resources.
Authorities have not disclosed the specific details of the fraudulent claims or the amounts sought by the individuals involved. However, the investigation underscores the importance of vigilance in safeguarding taxpayer-funded programs intended for those in genuine need.
The case is ongoing, and further updates are expected as the legal process unfolds.
Tickets Available Now For 2025 Wings Over North Georgia
Don’t wait until the last minute to get tickets to the 2025 Wings Over North Georgia air show. They are already moving as fast as the fighter jets that will take to the skies of Rome, GA in October.
This year’s air show is slated for October 17th through 19th at Rome’s Russell Regional Airport. The U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels will serve as the headliners for that Saturday and Sunday. A Friday evening twilight show with fireworks will also be offered.
John Cowman, President of JLC Airshow Management, says that tickets for WONG have been in demand because of the Blue Angels’ upcoming return to town. Air show fans can save money if they purchase tickets now.
The addition of a night show to kick off the festivities might inspire visitors from out of town to stay in town throughout the air show weekend, according to Cowman.
Wings Over North Georgia attracts visitors from around the region and even around the country, attests Cowman, who adds that this provides a significant boost to the local economy.
Get additional information and purchase tickets to this year’s air show online at www.wingsovernorthgeorgia.com.
Advance Voting For March 2025 Special Election Announced In Chattooga County
The Chattooga County Registrars Office is reminding residents that advance voting for the upcoming Special Election on March 18, 2025, will take place from February 24 through March 14. All advance voting will be conducted at the Registrars Office.
During the advance voting period, voters can cast their ballots on weekdays from 8:30 AM to 5 PM and on two designated Saturdays, March 1 and March 8, from 9 AM to 5 PM. This initiative aims to provide ample opportunities for residents to participate in the important electoral process. In addition to advance voting, absentee by mail applications are currently being accepted and will remain open until March 7. Voters who apply for absentee ballots by February 24 will receive their ballots starting on that date. For applications submitted after February 24, ballots will be mailed within 48 hours of receiving the request, barring any unforeseen circumstances. Voters must ensure their absentee ballots are returned to the Registrars Office by 7 PM on March 18. A secure drop box will be available during the advance voting period, and voters may also choose to return their ballots by mail or deliver them directly to a registrar or absentee ballot clerk at the office.
To ensure the integrity of the election, Logic and Accuracy Testing of the voting equipment will commence on February 11 at 10 AM and will continue until all equipment is tested for the March 18 special election.
In related news, the Chattooga County Board of Elections and Registration is scheduled to meet on February 12 at 2 PM. One of the key agenda items will be the proposed relocation of the Lyerly Polling Location from the Lyerly Fire Hall to the Lyerly Community Center. Details regarding other topics for discussion will be made available as the meeting date approaches.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take advantage of the early voting and absentee ballot options to ensure their voices are heard in the upcoming special election
Floyd County Police Arrest Summerville Man After Domestic Incident
Floyd County police arrested a Chattooga County man this week after a domestic incident. According to reports, Lavoris Shajuan Williams, a 43-year-old man from Summerville, was taken into custody following an altercation that left a female victim injured. The altercation was witnessed by a young child. The incident took place on Regina Drive in Rome, where authorities report that Williams allegedly shoved the victim in the face during a heated dispute, causing her glasses to fall off. The confrontation took place in the presence of a 7-year-old child. Williams now faces multiple charges, including simple battery, third-degree cruelty to children, and probation violation.
Trion Fire Department's Captain Brannon Martin Completes Crucial Training In Residential Safety Surveys
The Trion Fire Department has shared that Captain Brannon Martin has finished the Residential Safety Surveys for Fire Departments course at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center. This program helps fire professionals learn how to conduct and evaluate residential safety surveys to boost community safety. These surveys help spot fire risks in homes and ensure compliance with safety codes, which can lower fire hazards. They also improve public relations and provide residents with fire safety knowledge. The surveys focus on finding hazards, educating residents, improving relations, and reducing risks. They check safety features like fire alarms, stovetops, escape routes, emergency lighting, and exterior electrical outlets. Captain Martin’s training demonstrates the Trion Fir Department’s commitment to community safety and fire protection.