Arrest Report - Friday - July 31, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, July 31, 2026:
Stormy Weekend Ahead as Heavy Rain, Strong Storms Return to Northwest Georgia
After a welcome break from the heat and humidity, Northwest Georgia will see one more day of pleasant weather before an active weekend weather pattern moves into the area.
Friday will be mostly sunny with a high near 91 degrees and noticeably lower humidity, making it one of the more comfortable days of the week. However, moisture will rapidly return overnight, with a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms developing before daybreak Saturday.
Saturday is expected to be the most active day of the forecast. Showers and thunderstorms are likely beginning in the morning and continuing through the afternoon and evening. Some storms could become strong, producing heavy rainfall, gusty winds, frequent lightning, and localized flooding. Rainfall totals of up to an inch or more are possible in some locations, especially where storms repeatedly move over the same areas.
The unsettled pattern continues through Sunday and into much of next week, with daily chances for afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms. While widespread severe weather is not expected at this time, forecasters say a few stronger storms and localized flash flooding will remain possible. The increased cloud cover and rainfall will also keep afternoon highs in the mid to upper 80s through at least Tuesday, providing relief from the recent stretch of intense summer heat.
Residents are encouraged to monitor the latest forecasts, remain weather aware this weekend, and avoid driving through flooded roadways.
Community Rallying to Help Chattooga High Band Purchase New Equipment Trailer
A community fundraising effort is underway to help the Chattooga High School Marching Indian Band replace its equipment trailer after the current trailer was deemed unsafe for travel.
The fundraiser, organized by band supporter and alumna Celia Greene Holt, aims to raise money to purchase a new trailer that will safely transport the band’s instruments and equipment to football games, competitions and other events.
In a social media post, Holt said the Chattooga High School band has been a source of pride for generations of students, families, alumni and the community. Now, as the grandmother of a current band member, she said helping preserve that tradition has become deeply personal.
Holt encouraged anyone who has enjoyed the band’s performances or cherishes memories of Friday night football games to consider making a donation or sharing the fundraiser with others.
As of this week, the online fundraiser had raised a portion of its $2,800 goal.
Donations can be made through the GoFundMe campaign titled “Keep Chattooga Band Rolling with a New Trailer.”
Commissioner Approves 180-Day Moratorium On Cargo Container Homes And Other Non-Traditional Developments
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen has approved a 180-day moratorium on certain non-traditional residential developments while the county reviews and updates its land-use regulations.
The resolution places a temporary halt on accepting permit applications for cargo container homes and structures, tiny home developments, multi-service community developments, mixed-use developments, and other non-traditional residential projects not specifically addressed in the county’s current ordinances.
According to the resolution, the county believes the pause is necessary to study the health and safety implications of these types of developments, including structural standards, impacts on existing neighborhoods, property values, public health, and community welfare. The document also states the county has recently become aware of multiple non-traditional building styles and development projects that are not adequately covered under current regulations.
The moratorium will remain in effect for 180 days, although the resolution allows it to be renewed or extended if county officials determine additional time is needed to complete the review process.
The resolution became effective immediately upon approval by Sole Commissioner Andy Allen.
Commissioner Allen has emphasized throughout the process that the moratorium is intended to provide time to develop appropriate regulations and is not a permanent ban on these types of developments.
GEMA/HS Names Kirk Smith Deputy Director Of Homeland Security Division
The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency has appointed Kirk Smith as the new Deputy Director of its Homeland Security Division.
Smith most recently served as GEMA/HS Homeland Security Operations Manager. In his new role, he will oversee Homeland Security Operations, Intelligence, and Critical Infrastructure and Key Resources, helping coordinate statewide efforts to strengthen preparedness, security and resilience.
Before joining GEMA/HS, Smith spent nearly 18 years as a Special Agent with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, where he served in several roles, including field agent, child abuse specialist, crime scene specialist and field training agent. He also served as a civilian law enforcement advisor with the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division in Afghanistan from 2010 to 2012.
GEMA/HS Director Josh Lamb praised Smith’s leadership and experience, saying his commitment to preparedness and coordination will help strengthen the agency’s mission of protecting Georgia communities from natural disasters, terrorism and other emergencies.
As part of the Governor’s Office, GEMA/HS works with local, state and federal partners to coordinate disaster response, emergency preparedness and homeland security efforts throughout Georgia.
United Way's 211 Service Connects Residents To Help With Just Three Digits
When families face financial hardship or unexpected challenges, knowing where to turn for help can be one of the biggest obstacles. United Way of Floyd, Polk & Chattooga Counties is working to remove that barrier by connecting residents with assistance through the 211 helpline.
Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 211 is a free and confidential service that connects people with trained specialists who can help locate local resources for food, housing, utility assistance, healthcare, mental health services, employment, childcare, transportation, veteran services and many other community needs. The service is available in more than 180 languages and can be accessed by dialing 211 from a phone.
Rather than simply providing a list of phone numbers, 211 specialists work with callers to understand their individual circumstances and connect them with programs that best meet their needs. United Way says the service often helps people navigate multiple challenges at once by identifying resources they may not have known existed.
Nationally, 211 specialists handled approximately 19 million referrals in 2025, connecting people to nearly 1.7 million community programs and services across the country. The information gathered also helps identify emerging community needs and gaps in available services.
United Way officials encourage anyone in Floyd, Polk or Chattooga counties who needs help finding assistance to call 211 before a temporary setback becomes a larger crisis.
Georgia Department Of Corrections Recruiting Employees, Including At Hays State Prison
The Georgia Department of Corrections is continuing to recruit new employees across the state, including at Hays State Prison in Trion, where several positions are currently available.
According to the GDC, Hays State Prison has multiple job openings, including Correctional Officer positions and other support roles. The agency says correctional officers at Hays State Prison have a starting salary of $50,386 per year, with opportunities for salary increases after six months and again after one year, along with state benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, paid holidays and on-the-job training.
Hays State Prison is one of the largest employers in Chattooga County and houses adult male offenders. As part of the Georgia Department of Corrections, employees are responsible for maintaining security, supervising offenders and supporting rehabilitation programs within the facility. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, meet Georgia P.O.S.T. requirements, pass a background investigation and successfully complete the department’s five-week Basic Correctional Officer Training Academy.
Statewide, the Georgia Department of Corrections employs approximately 9,000 people and supervises about 47,000 incarcerated individuals, making it the largest law enforcement agency in Georgia.
Those interested in employment opportunities at Hays State Prison or other GDC facilities can view current openings and apply online through the Georgia Department of Corrections careers website HERE.
Chattooga Curtain Call Presents Newsies Jr. Today And Tomorrow
Chattooga Curtain Call will bring the Broadway musical Newsies Jr. to the stage today and tomorrow, continuing its tradition of giving local students opportunities to perform and develop their talents in the performing arts.
The production features a cast of area students who have spent the summer rehearsing the high-energy musical, which is based on the true story of the 1899 New York City newsboys’ strike. The family-friendly show follows a group of young newspaper sellers who join together to demand fair treatment while learning lessons about courage, friendship and teamwork.
Chattooga Curtain Call is a local nonprofit organization that has provided theater experiences for students throughout Chattooga County and surrounding communities for more than a decade. The organization helps young performers build skills in acting, singing and stage performance while supporting the performing arts locally.
Performances are scheduled for today at 7 p.m. and tomorrow at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Connect City Church.
Tickets are $10 and may be purchased through Venmo at @Chattooga-Curtain-Call. Buyers will receive confirmation and their tickets will be held at the door. Tickets may also be purchased at the door with cash or check.
Inmate Charged After Altercation With Officers At Chattooga County Jail
An inmate at the Chattooga County Jail is facing additional charges following an incident that deputies say involved resisting officers and assaulting a detention officer.
According to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Christopher Martin Roberson, 37, was charged following an incident on July 23 inside the jail. Deputies reported Roberson had been damaging a jail-issued tablet with a glass screen and also damaging a jail cell window when officers responded to restrain him.
The incident report states Roberson refused repeated commands to get off a table inside a cell block. Officers deployed a Taser after he allegedly resisted efforts to remove him from the table. Deputies reported the Taser was effective, and Roberson was then secured in a restraint chair.
Afterward, a detention officer reported that Roberson spit on him, with saliva striking the officer’s right hand. The officer requested that charges be filed.
Roberson was charged with Obstruction of Law Enforcement Officers (Misdemeanor) and Simple Battery Against a Law Enforcement/Detention Officer.
Summerville Police Investigating Repeated Political Sticker Incidents
The Summerville Police Department is investigating after a city resident reported someone repeatedly placing political stickers on his vehicle without permission.
According to an incident report, police met with Dominick Bennett on July 25 regarding a criminal trespass complaint at a residence on Martin Street.
Bennett told police he first discovered “Trump” stickers placed on his vehicles about a month earlier while they were parked at his home. He said there was no damage to the vehicles and did not report the incident at that time.
According to the report, Bennett contacted police again after his wife discovered another “Trump” sticker inside the gas tank door of one vehicle. Later that same day, Bennett found an additional sticker on the rear passenger-side window of the same vehicle.
Bennett told officers he believes he and his family are being harassed because of their political views. He identified a nearby neighbor as a person of interest but acknowledged he has no evidence to support that belief. Bennett requested a follow-up investigation and told police he wishes to prosecute if the person responsible is identified.
The case has been turned over to the Summerville Police Department’s Investigations Division.
Georgia Power Breaks Ground On Major Plant Bowen Expansion As Supporters, Critics Debate Future Of Energy
Hundreds of invited guests gathered this week at Plant Bowen in Northwest Georgia as Georgia Power officially broke ground on one of the largest electric generation expansion projects in the company’s history.
The project will add new high-efficiency natural gas generating units and a large battery energy storage system to the site, helping meet Georgia’s rapidly growing demand for electricity. Company officials say the expansion will strengthen the electric grid, improve reliability during periods of peak demand and support continued residential, commercial and industrial growth across the state. Plant Bowen is already one of the largest electricity-generating facilities in the United States, and the additions are expected to significantly increase its capacity.
Georgia Power says electricity demand has grown at an unprecedented pace in recent years, fueled by population growth, new industries and large energy users, including data centers. The company maintains the additional generation is necessary to ensure customers have reliable power during periods of extreme weather and increasing demand.
The expansion, however, has drawn criticism from several environmental organizations, including the Southern Environmental Law Center and the Sierra Club. The groups argue the project will increase air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions while locking Georgia into decades of additional fossil fuel use. They have challenged air permits issued for the project, claiming regulators failed to require stricter pollution controls and questioning whether the state’s projected electricity demand justifies the scale of the expansion.
Other critics have also questioned whether Georgia ratepayers could ultimately bear the cost of the expansion. Although Georgia Power has said residential customers will not subsidize electricity needed for large data centers, opponents argue the long-term costs and demand projections remain uncertain.
Construction at Plant Bowen is expected to continue over the next several years as Georgia Power works to expand the state’s electric generating capacity while balancing growing demand, reliability needs and environmental concerns.
Woman Charged With Shoplifting Following Summerville Store Investigation
A Chattooga County woman was arrested after deputies responded to a reported shoplifting incident at a local business.
According to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Alan Garmany was dispatched on July 22 after store personnel reported a suspected shoplifter. Investigators said Brenda Sue Ingram, 71, allegedly concealed six items inside her purse after checking out and attempted to leave the store without paying for the merchandise.
The incident report states that while confronting Ingram, store personnel discovered what was believed to be marijuana in her purse and turned it over to law enforcement. Deputies also obtained a copy of the store’s surveillance video as evidence.
According to the report, Ingram apologized and told deputies she did not have enough money to pay for all of the items. She was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Chattooga County Jail.
Ingram was charged with Theft by Shoplifting.
As with all criminal cases, the charge is an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
GDOT Encourages Northwest Georgia Residents To Review Transportation Projects
The Georgia Department of Transportation is encouraging residents across Northwest Georgia to review proposed transportation projects and submit feedback online as part of the draft 2027–2030 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).
GDOT is encouraging citizens to participate through its interactive STIP website, where users can search for projects by county, view detailed project descriptions, funding information and anticipated timelines, and submit comments electronically. The public comment period remains open through August 15, 2026.
The STIP serves as Georgia’s four-year transportation plan for federally funded projects outside metropolitan planning areas and includes proposed highway, bridge, safety, resurfacing, bicycle, pedestrian and railroad improvements. Public comments will help GDOT identify local transportation priorities as it finalizes the 2027–2030 program.
Residents can review projects affecting Chattooga County and other areas of Northwest Georgia and submit feedback online through the Georgia DOT STIP website before the August 15 deadline.
You can find out more HERE
Arrest Report - Thursday - July 30, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, July 6, 2026:
Sunny, Less Humid Weather Arrives Before Weekend Storms
Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia will enjoy a brief break from the recent heat and humidity today and Friday before showers and thunderstorms return for the weekend.
Today will be sunny with a high near 89 degrees. A light north wind around 5 mph will help bring noticeably drier and more comfortable air into the region.
Tonight will be mostly clear and cooler, with temperatures falling to around 65 degrees. Friday will remain mostly sunny with a high near 91. Humidity levels are expected to stay lower than they have been in recent days, making the heat feel less oppressive.
The dry weather will begin to change late Friday night. There is a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms developing during the early morning hours Saturday.
Showers and thunderstorms are expected to become widespread Saturday, with a 90 percent chance of rain and a high near 86. The National Weather Service says a few storms could become strong to severe Saturday afternoon.
Rain and thunderstorms will remain likely Saturday night and Sunday. Sunday’s high will be near 85, with a 70 percent chance of precipitation.
The unsettled weather pattern is expected to continue into next week, with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms Monday through Wednesday. High temperatures will generally remain in the mid to upper 80s.
Residents with outdoor plans this weekend should continue monitoring the forecast and be prepared to move indoors if thunderstorms develop.
Steam Locomotive Rolls Into Summerville Today As International Model Railroad Convention Visits Region
Rail fans will have a rare opportunity today as a historic steam locomotive arrives in downtown Summerville as part of the 2026 National Model Railroad Association Convention, being held this week in Chattanooga.
The convention is being hosted in Chattanooga for the first time in the organization’s 90-year history and has attracted more than 1,000 registered model railroad enthusiasts from around the world. The accompanying National Train Show is expected to draw more than 15,000 visitors, making it one of the largest railroad events in the country.
One of the convention’s signature events is today’s ScaleTrains Summerville Steam Special, operated by the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. The excursion features the museum’s legendary Southern Railway No. 4501 steam locomotive, freshly painted in its classic green passenger colors to commemorate 60 years of excursion service. The locomotive will pull a 10-car passenger train on a 100-mile round trip between Chattanooga and Summerville.
The train is scheduled to arrive at the Summerville Depot between 12:30 and 1:00 p.m. About 450 passengers are expected to visit the community, where they’ll enjoy a catered barbecue lunch in Dowdy Park and watch No. 4501 turn on the historic Summerville Railroad Turntable before departing around 2:45 p.m. Special permission was granted by the Chattooga & Chickamauga Railway to allow the weekday excursion, something organizers say is likely a one-time event.
Motorists should expect temporary traffic delays while the train is in town. The railroad crossings at East Washington Street and East First Avenue will be closed during the visit, and drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes.
For railroad enthusiasts, today’s visit offers a rare chance to see one of America’s most famous operating steam locomotives in Summerville and to welcome visitors from across the United States and around the world to Chattooga County.
Chattooga County Fair Releases Rules Ahead Of August Event
Organizers of the 2026 Chattooga County Agricultural Fair are reminding visitors of several rules that will be in effect during this year’s fair, which runs August 27-30 at the Chattooga County Fairgrounds and Agricultural Center in Summerville.
The fair will be held rain or shine, and organizers say no refunds will be issued because of weather.
Among the rules, no outside food or beverages, no glass containers and no alcohol will be permitted on the fairgrounds. Animals are also prohibited, with the exception of service animals and animals participating in livestock shows.
Fair officials say all bags and backpacks are subject to search, and firearms and other weapons are prohibited. Because the fair is held on school property, Georgia law also restricts weapons on the grounds.
Smoking is allowed only in designated areas. Guests who engage in disorderly conduct may be removed from the fairgrounds without a refund.
Those attending concerts are also reminded that umbrellas and tents are not permitted in the concert seating area, although visitors are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs.
Additional information, including entertainment schedules, livestock events and Blue Ribbon entry guidelines, is available at www.chattoogafair.com.
Playground Fence Damaged At Summerville Church
The Summerville Police Department is investigating damage to a playground fence at First United Methodist Church in downtown Summerville.
According to an incident report, Officer Matt Kinnamont responded to the church at 220 West Washington Street on July 28 after receiving a report of property damage.
Pastor John Privett told police someone had damaged the chain-link fence surrounding the church’s playground. Officers observed the fence had been removed from one side, bent, and that the top rail pieces had been broken.
Privett told police that several groups of children often use the playground and nearby basketball court, but it was unclear who was responsible for the damage. He said he was first notified of the incident on Saturday, July 25.
Police documented the damage with photographs and advised the church to consider installing security cameras. The case has been forwarded for further investigation.
Updated Property List Released For August 4 Chattooga County Tax Sale
Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Cooper Hampton has released an updated list of properties scheduled for the county’s August tax sale.
The sheriff’s sale will be held Tuesday, August 4, on the steps of the Chattooga County Courthouse in Summerville. Properties will be offered at public outcry between the legal sale hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Payment must be made with cash or certified funds.
The properties are being sold under tax executions issued for unpaid state and county taxes. Only as much property as necessary to satisfy the tax debt and related costs will be sold.
Prospective buyers are reminded that this is a buyer-beware sale. All properties will be sold as-is, and the Tax Commissioner’s Office makes no warranty regarding title. Properties may also be subject to recorded covenants, easements, rights-of-way and the legal right of redemption following a tax sale.
Purchasers are responsible for title costs, transfer costs, taxes, advertising expenses and recording fees. At the discretion of the Tax Commissioner’s Office, payment may be required within two hours after the sale concludes.
The updated property list was released July 28. Anyone considering bidding should carefully research the property and consult an attorney before participating. You can see the updated list below:
Chattooga County Schools Hiring Custodians For Two Elementary Schools
The Chattooga County Board of Education is accepting applications for two custodian positions at local elementary schools.
A full-time, 208-day custodian is needed at Lyerly Elementary School. The position requires employees to work 9.25 hours per day, Tuesday through Friday, and includes benefits such as health insurance, retirement, sick leave and vacation leave.
The school system is also hiring a part-time, 208-day custodian at Leroy Massey Elementary School. That position is 4.5 hours per day, Tuesday through Friday and is not eligible for benefits.
Applicants should have a high school diploma or GED, although it is preferred rather than required. Duties include cleaning and maintaining school buildings and grounds.
Applications are available at the Chattooga County Superintendent’s Office or online at chattooga.k12.ga.us by selecting District Services and then Human Resources. Completed applications, along with required documents, should be submitted to Dawn Campbell, Human Resources Director, at the Chattooga County Board of Education in Summerville.