Arrest Report - Friday - July 3, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, July 3, 2026:
Chattooga County Sheriff's Office Installs Prescription Drug Drop Box
Chattooga County residents have a safe and convenient way to dispose of expired or unused prescription medications. The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office has announced the addition of a new medication collection container in the lobby of the Sheriff’s Office. The drop box is available to the public Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., excluding holidays.
The collection container is being offered in partnership with NarcX. Sheriff’s Office staff will assist residents with placing medications into the container. Residents are asked to keep their prescription bottles and take them back home for disposal in order to protect personal identifying information printed on the labels.
Accepted items include prescription medications, lawfully possessed Schedule II through V controlled substances, non-controlled medications, over-the-counter medications, pet medications, and vitamins.
Items that cannot be accepted include illegal or illicit drugs, Schedule I controlled substances, hazardous materials such as batteries or aerosol spray cans, antacids, sharps, needles, syringes, trash, and plastic or glass bottles or vials.
The Sheriff’s Office says the new collection container provides a secure way to keep unused medications from being misused, accidentally taken, or improperly thrown away. Proper disposal also helps protect families, children, pets, and the community by reducing the number of old medications left in homes.
Residents with questions about what can be placed in the container may ask staff for assistance when they arrive at the Sheriff’s Office.
Menlo Invites Community To Celebrate Independence Day Saturday At City Park
The City of Menlo is inviting residents and visitors to spend the Fourth of July celebrating with a full day of family fun, food, entertainment, and patriotic festivities at Menlo City Park.
Activities begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 4, with the annual Fourth of July Parade stepping off at 11 a.m. Following the parade, families can enjoy a variety of activities throughout the park, including vendors, food, a waterslide, and entertainment for all ages.
This year’s celebration will feature a variety of local vendors offering food, crafts, specialty products, and community information. Participating vendors include Anita’s Blissful Bites, Twinkle & Tatt glitter tattoos and hair color, Mercy Me Pork Skins, Daydreamer Farms, Smoke Signals, DOB Lemonade Co., K Sims T-Shirt Bar, Leroy’s Seasoning, Sweet Pastures Sweet Treats, the Menlo Masonic Lodge, the Trion Library, Menlo First Baptist Church, and several others.
The Trion Library will be providing free information for families, while Menlo First Baptist Church will be handing out free bottled water, courtesy of Lucky’s.
City officials encourage everyone to come out, support local businesses, enjoy the festivities, and celebrate Independence Day with friends, family, and neighbors in Menlo.
Georgia Department Of Public Health Urges Safe And Healthy Fourth Of July Weekend
The Georgia Department of Public Health is reminding Georgians and visitors to stay safe and healthy while celebrating the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
With temperatures expected to climb into the 90s, DPH says heat safety should be a top priority. People are encouraged to drink plenty of water, wear lightweight clothing, use sunscreen, avoid long periods in direct sunlight, and check on older adults, neighbors, children, and pets. Anyone showing signs of heatstroke, including dizziness, nausea, headache, fatigue, or confusion, should receive immediate help and 911 should be called.
DPH is also urging families to practice food safety during cookouts by washing hands and surfaces, keeping raw meat separate from ready-to-eat foods, cooking meats to the proper temperature, and keeping perishable food chilled. In weather above 90 degrees, food should not sit out for more than one hour.
Health officials also remind residents to swim safely, keep a close watch on children around water, avoid swallowing pool or lake water, and check advisories before swimming in natural bodies of water.
To prevent mosquito bites, DPH recommends using EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and removing standing water around homes.
Fireworks safety is also important. DPH says fireworks are best left to professionals, and children should never handle fireworks or sparklers. Sparklers can burn at around 2,000 degrees and cause serious injuries.
The Department of Public Health says a few simple precautions can help families enjoy a safe and healthy Fourth of July weekend.
Chattooga County Young Farmers Welcomes New Teacher Chris Ramsey
Chattooga County Young Farmers has announced the addition of a new instructor for the upcoming program year. Chris Ramsey has joined the organization after most recently teaching at Rockmart High School for the past two years.
Ramsey holds a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, a master’s degree in secondary education, and a specialist degree in career and technical education from Auburn University. Prior to teaching in Georgia, he spent more than 20 years teaching in Alabama.
In addition to his classroom experience, Ramsey operates a farm where he raises beef cattle and pigs. He and his wife have two children, both of whom are studying Agribusiness at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College.
Chattooga County Young Farmers officials say they are excited to welcome Ramsey and look forward to the knowledge, energy, and leadership he will bring to the program. Ramsey says he is eager to get started and looks forward to meeting and working with local Young Farmers members.
Georgia State Patrol Urges Safe Travel During Independence Day Holiday Weekend
With millions of Americans expected to hit the road for the Fourth of July holiday, the Georgia Department of Public Safety is urging motorists to make safety their top priority during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.
The Georgia State Patrol and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement will conduct increased patrols across the state throughout the holiday travel period, which begins Thursday at 6 p.m. and continues through Sunday at 11:59 p.m. Troopers will focus on impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, seat belt violations, and other dangerous driving behaviors as part of Operation Zero Tolerance and the 100 Days of Summer H.E.A.T. enforcement campaign.
According to AAA, a record 61.6 million Americans are expected to travel by car over the Independence Day holiday, making it one of the busiest July Fourth travel periods on record. Georgia officials say motorists should expect heavier-than-normal traffic on interstates and major highways throughout the weekend.
The Department of Public Safety is reminding drivers to obey posted speed limits, avoid distractions behind the wheel, wear seat belts, ensure children are properly restrained, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Officials also encourage travelers to allow extra travel time, remain patient in traffic, and use a designated driver or rideshare service if alcohol is part of their holiday celebration.
Last year’s Independence Day holiday enforcement period resulted in 472 DUI arrests, more than 15,900 citations, over 18,500 warnings, and 18 traffic fatalities statewide, including crashes investigated by both the Georgia State Patrol and local law enforcement agencies. State officials hope increased enforcement and responsible driving will help reduce crashes and save lives during this year’s holiday weekend.
Lyerly Fire Department Hosting Free Back-To-School Bash July 11
The Lyerly Fire Department is inviting families from across Chattooga County to kick off the new school year at its annual Free Back-To-School Bash on Saturday, July 11.
The event will be held from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Lyerly Park and is designed to help students prepare for the upcoming school year while enjoying a day of family fun.
Children attending the event will receive free book bags and free school supplies while supplies last. Families can also enjoy free hot dogs, free icees, a waterslide, and a dunk tank, where participants will have the chance to dunk a firefighter.
The Lyerly Fire Department will also have one of its fire trucks on display, giving children an opportunity to get an up-close look at the equipment firefighters use to protect the community.
Organizers say the event is free and open to the public and encourages families to arrive early, as some giveaway items will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Back-To-School Bash has become a popular annual tradition, bringing together first responders, community volunteers, and local families while helping students start the school year with the supplies they need.
Heat Advisory Continues as Dangerous Heat Grips Northwest Georgia Through Independence Day
The dangerous heat that’s been building across Northwest Georgia will continue today and through the Independence Day holiday, with a Heat Advisory remaining in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday. An Excessive Heat Warning also continues for parts of northwest Georgia.
Today will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 98 degrees. Heat index values are expected to climb as high as 106 degrees during the afternoon. There is a 30 percent chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., but many areas will remain dry. Tonight will be partly cloudy with a low around 75 degrees and a slight chance of an evening thunderstorm.
For Independence Day on Saturday, expect another sunny and very hot day with a high near 97 degrees. Only a slight 20 percent chance of an afternoon thunderstorm is expected, mainly near the Alabama state line. Most Fourth of July celebrations should remain dry, but the heat will be the biggest concern.
Forecasters say the heat will become dangerous by mid-morning, with “feels like” temperatures climbing into the 90s before 10 a.m. and remaining there until late in the evening. Anyone spending time outdoors for parades, cookouts, fireworks, or other holiday activities should drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning, wear light-colored clothing, and check on children, older adults, and pets.
Beginning Sunday, the weather pattern will gradually become more typical for July as moisture returns from the Gulf of Mexico. Afternoon showers and thunderstorms will become more common through the middle of next week, with rain chances increasing to 40 to 50 percent each day. High temperatures will ease back into the lower to middle 90s, although the added humidity will continue to push heat index values above 100 degrees.
Man Arrested After Disturbance At Summerville Event Leads To Multiple Charges
A man was arrested on multiple charges after Summerville Police responded to reports of several physical altercations during an event in the area of Sixth Avenue and Highland Avenue on June 27.
According to the Summerville Police Department incident report, officers were dispatched at approximately 11:38 p.m. after receiving reports of a male involved in multiple physical confrontations with people attending the event.
Upon arrival, officers reported observing the suspect, later identified as Tevin Smith, shove both a male and a female.
The report states Smith was immediately ordered to place his hands on the hood of a patrol vehicle while officers investigated. During the investigation, an officer spoke with a woman identified as Jessica Jeburk, who identified herself as Smith’s mother and advised officers to place her son under arrest.
According to the report, Smith actively resisted as officers attempted to handcuff him but was eventually taken into custody. Officers also reported detecting a strong odor of alcohol coming from Smith.
Following the arrest, officers spoke with another witness, Drago Jeburk, who told police Smith had consumed excessive amounts of alcohol and had been initiating altercations with multiple individuals. The report states Jessica Jeburk confirmed that account. Officers reported that no additional victims came forward during the investigation.
Smith was transported to the Chattooga County Jail and charged with Simple Battery (Family Violence), Disorderly Conduct, Public Drunkenness, and Obstruction of Law Enforcement Officers.
Walker County Explains New Spay And Neuter Law And Exemptions
Walker County officials are clarifying the county’s new spay and neuter ordinance and explaining which pet owners may qualify for exemptions.
The ordinance requires most dogs and cats six months of age or older to be spayed or neutered unless the animal qualifies for an exemption or the owner purchases an annual unaltered animal license. County leaders say the goal is to reduce pet overpopulation and ease pressure on the Walker County Animal Shelter.
Exemptions include animals owned by licensed commercial breeders or pet dealers, animals with a veterinarian-certified medical exemption, and working animals used for farming, herding, hunting, service work, law enforcement, or show purposes. Owners must have proper documentation.
Pet owners who do not qualify for an exemption may purchase an annual license through the Walker County Animal Shelter. The fee is $100 per year for dogs and $50 per year for cats, with proceeds going toward the county’s spay and neuter voucher program.
County officials say the ordinance will be reviewed later this year to evaluate how well it is working.
Driver Charged with DUI After Being Found Asleep in Vehicle on Gore Subligna Road
A 43-year-old man was arrested by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office after deputies found him asleep behind the wheel of a pickup truck that had stopped in the roadway on Gore Subligna Road.
According to the incident report, Huber Carlos De Leon Ramirez, 43, was charged with DUI – Alcohol (Misdemeanor), Driving Without a License, and Traffic Offenses following the June 23 incident.
Deputies responded to the area of Gore Subligna Road at Pleasant Hill Church Road after receiving a report of a white pickup truck stopped in the roadway with its hazard lights activated. Upon arrival, officers found the driver slumped over asleep inside the vehicle.
The report states deputies observed an open container of a Four Loko alcoholic beverage in the center console and noted a strong odor of alcohol coming from the driver. Officers also reported the driver’s eyes were bloodshot and glossy and that he had difficulty maintaining his balance.
Due to a language barrier, deputies did not conduct standardized field sobriety tests. Instead, an E-911 translator assisted officers as they read Georgia’s implied consent notice. The driver was transported to EMS Station 12, where a blood sample was obtained. Deputies also reported the driver’s blood sugar level was checked and found to be within the normal range before he was transported to the Chattooga County Jail.
The charges remain allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Summerville and Trion Recreation Departments Open Registration for Fall Youth Sports
Families in Chattooga County can now sign up children for fall youth sports as both the Summerville and Trion Recreation Departments have opened registration for the upcoming season.
The Summerville Parks and Recreation Department is accepting registrations through August 2 for football, cheerleading, volleyball, and soccer. Football is available for ages 6U, 8U, 10U, and 12U, while cheerleading is open to ages 5-13. Volleyball includes 8U, 10U, 12U, and 14U divisions, and soccer offers a new 4U Tot Soccer division along with 6U, 8U, 10U, and 12U leagues. Registration is available online at www.summervillerec.org.
The Trion Recreation Department is also accepting registrations through August 1. Soccer is available for ages 3-14, football for ages 5-12, volleyball for ages 7-14, and cheerleading for ages 5-12. The age control date for all Trion programs is September 1, 2026.
Both recreation departments encourage families to register early to ensure children have the opportunity to participate in this year’s fall sports season.
Georgia Opens Applications for Nonprofit Security Grants to Help Protect High-Risk Organizations
The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency is now accepting applications for the Fiscal Year 2026 Nonprofit Security Grant Program, a federal initiative designed to help nonprofit organizations strengthen security and better protect their members, staff, and facilities.
The application period opened June 26 and will remain open through Wednesday, July 15, 2026. Applications must be submitted online through the Georgia EM Grants Manager System.
The program provides funding to nonprofit organizations that are considered to be at a high risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack. Eligible organizations may apply for grants to improve physical security, enhance cybersecurity, and harden facilities against potential threats.
Grant funding may be used for projects such as installing or upgrading surveillance camera systems, access control systems, reinforced doors and windows, perimeter fencing, exterior lighting, alarm systems, and other security improvements. Funds may also be used for security planning, training, and exercises that help organizations prepare for emergencies.
The program is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, with the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency overseeing the application process for Georgia organizations. The goal is to help nonprofit organizations become more resilient while integrating their preparedness efforts with state and local emergency management and public safety partners.
Organizations interested in applying can find additional information and application instructions through the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency. Questions about the program may be directed to HSgrants@gema.ga.gov.
Georgia State Patrol Seeks Public Votes in National 'Best Looking Patrol Car' Contest
The Georgia Department of Public Safety is asking Georgians to help the Georgia State Patrol bring home a national title by voting in the 2026 American Association of State Troopers (AAST) Best Looking Patrol Car Contest.
Voting is now underway, and the annual contest features patrol vehicles from state law enforcement agencies across the country. Supporters can cast one vote for Georgia’s entry through July 10.
The Georgia Department of Public Safety is also encouraging residents to like and share the contest announcement on social media and invite friends and family to participate. Officials say every vote helps showcase the pride, professionalism, and tradition of the Georgia State Patrol on a national stage.
To vote, visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2026bestlookingcruiser
Arrest Report - Thursday - July 2, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, July 2, 2026:
Extreme Heat Warning In Effect Today; Heat Index Could Reach 111 Degrees
Dangerous and potentially life-threatening heat is expected across Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia today as an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect from noon until 8 p.m.
The National Weather Service says heat index values could climb as high as 111 degrees this afternoon across Chattooga, Floyd, Gordon, Bartow, Murray, Polk, and Whitfield counties. The combination of temperatures near 98 degrees and very high humidity will create hazardous conditions for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
Forecasters say heat-related illnesses become much more likely during periods of extreme heat and high humidity. Residents are urged to drink plenty of water throughout the day, remain in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible, stay out of direct sunlight, and check on elderly neighbors, young children, and anyone without adequate cooling.
Those who must work or spend time outdoors should wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, schedule strenuous activities during the early morning or evening hours, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned locations. OSHA also recommends regular rest periods for outdoor workers during extreme heat. Anyone showing signs of heat exhaustion should be moved to a cool location immediately. Heat stroke is a medical emergency—call 911 without delay.
There is a 30 percent chance of scattered afternoon and early evening thunderstorms after 5 p.m. While many communities will remain dry, any storms that develop could produce brief heavy rainfall, frequent lightning, and gusty winds before dissipating after sunset. Tonight will become partly cloudy with a low around 75 degrees.
The hot pattern continues into Friday, with another mostly sunny day and a high near 98 degrees. Only a slight chance of an afternoon thunderstorm is expected, and heat index values will once again climb well into the triple digits.
The Independence Day weekend will remain very warm. Highs on Saturday are expected to reach around 96 degrees with only a 20 percent chance of a late-day thunderstorm. Anyone attending parades, cookouts, fireworks displays, or other outdoor celebrations should plan for the heat by staying hydrated, seeking shade whenever possible, and taking frequent cooling breaks.
Rain chances begin increasing Sunday as a more typical summertime weather pattern develops. Scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms become likely Sunday afternoon and continue through at least Tuesday, with daily rain chances around 60 percent. High temperatures will gradually ease into the lower 90s by early next week, although humidity will remain high and heat index values will continue to make it feel hotter than the actual air temperature.
Even with the increased rain chances, forecasters caution that many areas will still experience several hours of dangerous afternoon heat before thunderstorms develop each day.
Woman Charged With DUI Following Early Morning Traffic Stop in Summerville
A 23-year-old woman was arrested on DUI charges after a Chattooga County Sheriff’s deputy observed her vehicle repeatedly cross traffic lines during an early morning traffic stop in Summerville.
According to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office incident report, Jakala Monique McDaniel, 23, was charged with DUI – Alcohol (Misdemeanor) and Traffic Offenses following the June 28 arrest.
The report states Deputy Matt Wilson was on routine patrol around 2:53 a.m. when he observed a white Kia Optima leave the Waffle House parking lot and begin traveling north on Highway 27. The deputy reported the vehicle failed to maintain its lane several times before turning onto Lake Wanda Reita Road, where it again crossed the double yellow centerline. A traffic stop was initiated just before Pecan Orchard Road.
According to the report, Deputy Wilson recognized McDaniel from an earlier encounter that same shift and said he had previously advised her not to drive after detecting the odor of alcohol on her breath. During the traffic stop, the deputy again reported smelling alcohol and observed that McDaniel’s eyes were bloodshot while her face appeared flushed and pale. The report states McDaniel admitted she had been drinking and told the deputy she was “almost home.”
The deputy administered standardized field sobriety tests. According to the report, McDaniel displayed six of six clues on the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, two of eight clues on the Walk-and-Turn test, and three of four clues on the One-Leg Stand test. After several unsuccessful attempts to obtain a roadside breath sample due to equipment issues, the deputy placed McDaniel under arrest for DUI based on her driving behavior, admission to consuming alcohol, the odor of alcohol, and the results of the field sobriety evaluations.
McDaniel was transported for a blood test before being booked into the Chattooga County Jail but withdrew her consent for the blood draw before she arrived at the EMS station.
The charges are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
AAA Urges Fireworks Safety And Insurance Check Ahead Of Independence Day
As families prepare for Independence Day celebrations, AAA is reminding homeowners that fireworks can bring more than safety risks — they can also lead to costly property damage and liability issues.
According to AAA – The Auto Club Group, fireworks were linked to 11 reported deaths and 14,700 injuries in 2024. Fireworks also started an estimated 32,302 fires in 2023, including 3,760 structure fires and $142 million in direct property damage.
AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters says even well-planned fireworks displays can end in injury or property damage. AAA recommends homeowners review their insurance policies before the holiday to understand what is covered, including fire damage, guest injuries, detached structures and liability claims.
AAA also urges residents to keep fireworks away from homes, vehicles, decks, dry grass and trees; soak used fireworks in water before disposal; keep a water hose or bucket nearby; and never allow young children to handle fireworks, including sparklers. AAA says the safest option is attending a professional fireworks display.
Chamber Invites Community to Monthly '5:30 Club' Networking Event at Jefferson's
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce is inviting business owners, professionals, and community members to its monthly 5:30 Club networking event on Thursday, July 9, from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at Jefferson’s Restaurant in Summerville.
The informal gathering is designed to give Chamber members and guests an opportunity to network, share ideas, discuss local business, and build new relationships in a relaxed setting. Organizers say the event has been rebranded following a successful launch and will now be held on the second Thursday of each month.
Attendees can enjoy complimentary appetizers while connecting with fellow business leaders and community members. The event is open to anyone interested in networking and learning more about the local business community.
For more information about the 5:30 Club or membership opportunities, contact the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce.
Chattooga County Seeks Bids for 18.5-Mile Road Resurfacing Project
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen has announced that the county is accepting sealed bids for a major road resurfacing project that will improve more than 18.5 miles of county roads through funding provided by the Georgia Department of Transportation’s Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant (LMIG) and Local Road Assistance (LRA) programs.
According to the bid notice, contractors are being asked to submit proposals for the labor required to resurface 18.54 miles of roadways throughout Chattooga County. The county will furnish the asphalt materials through Blount Construction, while bidders are required to submit pricing based on a per-ton cost for asphalt placement, a per-gallon cost for tack, and provide a total project cost.
Commissioner Allen said the work will be funded through the Georgia Department of Transportation’s LMIG program, which helps local governments maintain and improve county road systems.
Roads Scheduled for Resurfacing
The 2026 paving program includes improvements on several roads across the county.
LMIG-funded roads include:
- Perennial Springs Road / Owens Dairy Road – 3.3 miles
- Yarbrough Road – 1.96 miles
- Henderson Circle – 1.1 miles
- Hidden Brow Road – 0.6 miles
- Mitchell Circle – 2.1 miles
- Spraggins Hill Road – 0.77 miles
- Spring Creek Road (Alexander Road to Butler Dairy Road) – 1.18 miles
LRA-funded roads include:
- Stamper Drive (dirt road)
- Renee Road (dirt road)
- Scenic View (dirt road)
- Sling Alley Road
- Hickory Hills Lane
- Cofield Circle
- Elsie Street
- Ragland Road
- Silver Hill Road
In addition to resurfacing, the project also includes several road safety improvements, including pavement striping on numerous county roads, guardrail installation and anchor posts at Penn Bridge, rumble strips, new warning signs near Penn Bridge and Spring Creek Road, additional guardrail installation on West Spring Creek Road, and edge work on Silver Hill Road.
Bid Requirements
The county requires all bids to be submitted in sealed envelopes clearly marked “Sealed Bid.” Proposals must be received by the Commissioner’s Office at 10102 Commerce Street in Summerville no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026.
Bids will be publicly opened at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.
Contractors must include a 10 percent bid bond with their proposal and carry at least $1 million in general liability insurance per occurrence through a company licensed to do business in Georgia and rated at least A-. Workers’ compensation insurance is also required, and contractors must maintain a drug-free workplace throughout the project.
A complete list of project roads is available through the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office or on the county’s website. Commissioner Allen also noted that the county reserves the right to reject any or all bids.