Arrest Report - Saturday - June 27, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, June 27, 2026:
Scattered Storms Continue Through Weekend as Heat Builds Across Northwest Georgia
Residents of Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for another round of afternoon showers and thunderstorms today and Sunday, with a few storms capable of becoming strong to severe, according to the National Weather Service.
The greatest threat for severe weather today will be across far north Georgia, where isolated storms could produce damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning, and locally heavy rainfall during the afternoon and evening hours. While not everyone will see rain, scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop as a weak weather disturbance moves across the region.
Temperatures will continue climbing through the weekend, with afternoon highs reaching the upper 80s to lower 90s today before warming into the low and middle 90s on Sunday. Combined with high humidity, heat index values are expected to top 100 degrees beginning Sunday, making it feel significantly hotter.
Looking ahead, forecasters say the heat will continue to intensify through next week as a strong area of high pressure settles over the eastern United States. Afternoon temperatures will remain in the 90s, with heat index values frequently exceeding 100 degrees and possibly reaching 105 degrees in some locations.
Despite the building heat, isolated to scattered thunderstorms will remain possible each afternoon through much of next week. While widespread rain is not expected, any storm that develops could produce dangerous lightning, brief heavy downpours, and gusty winds.
The National Weather Service encourages anyone spending time outdoors to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning, and remain alert for rapidly changing weather conditions during the afternoon and evening hours.
State Agriculture Officials Ask Georgians To Watch For Yellow-Legged Hornets
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said this week that the Georgia Department of Agriculture is continuing its efforts to track, trap and eradicate the invasive yellow-legged hornet, and he is encouraging residents to help by watching for signs of the destructive insect.
Harper is asking Georgians to be on the lookout for possible secondary nests and to report any suspected sightings to the state.
Residents should watch for hornet activity around beehives, especially during the morning hours before noon and again after 5 PM.
Possible secondary nests may appear as large, round or oval-shaped structures located high in trees or other elevated areas. Officials say the nests are typically gray or brown and made of layered, paper-like material. Depending on temperatures, they may be visible from late summer through winter.
Anyone who believes they have spotted a yellow-legged hornet nest should report the sighting to the Georgia Department of Agriculture by email at yellow.legged.hornet@agr.georgia.gov.
GNTC To Offer Free Application Week For Fall Semester
Georgia Northwestern Technical College will waive application fees next week for students planning to enroll for the 2026 fall semester.
GNTC will host a Free Application Week from Monday, June 29, through Sunday, July 5. During that time, the college will waive the regular $25 application fee for all incoming students. Applicants will not need a special code to receive the fee waiver.
The admissions deadline for the fall semester is August 4, and fall classes are scheduled to begin August 17.
Students who need assistance can contact GNTC’s call center Monday through Friday from 7:45 AM until 4:15 PM at 866-983-4682. More information is also available on GNTC’s website by selecting “Apply Now.”
Questions about Free Application Week may be directed to the GNTC Office of Admissions at 866-983-4682 or by email at admissions@gntc.edu.
AAA: Record Number Of Americans Expected To Travel During Independence Day Holiday
A record number of Americans are expected to hit the road, take to the skies, and set sail during the upcoming Independence Day holiday, according to a new travel forecast from AAA.
AAA projects 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home during the nine-day holiday travel period running from Saturday, June 27, through Sunday, July 5. That surpasses last year’s record of 71.8 million travelers.
The vast majority of travelers—about 61.4 million people, or 85 percent—are expected to drive to their destinations. Despite higher gasoline prices than last year, AAA says road trips remain the most affordable option for many families.
Nearly 5.9 million Americans are expected to fly, while another 4.9 million will travel by bus, train, or cruise ship, making cruises and other alternative travel options the fastest-growing segment this year.
For those traveling by car, AAA recommends leaving early in the day to avoid the heaviest traffic. The organization also encourages motorists to check their vehicle’s battery, tires, and fluids before departing. Last Independence Day week, AAA responded to more than 687,000 roadside assistance calls, with towing, dead batteries, and flat tires among the most common problems.
AAA is also reminding travelers to drive safely during one of the busiest times of the year by avoiding impaired driving, slowing down around emergency vehicles, and always moving over for roadside workers.
Floyd County Man Charged With Aggravated Animal Cruelty
A Floyd County man is facing a felony charge after authorities say he seriously injured a dog with a machete at a Rome hotel.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 25-year-old Joseph Robert Bisher was arrested Wednesday and charged with aggravated cruelty to animals following an incident at a hotel on Martha Berry Boulevard.
Investigators allege Bisher struck a dog named “Oreo” with a machete, causing a deep laceration.
According to the arrest report, when questioned about the incident, Bisher allegedly told authorities he did not want to strike his girlfriend, so he struck the dog instead.
The case remains under investigation.
According To Georgia Recorder, More Than Half Of Georgia Teachers Now Use AI To Prepare For Class
More than half of Georgia’s public school teachers are now using artificial intelligence to help prepare lessons and complete other classroom tasks, according to a new report highlighted this week by the Georgia Recorder.
The report, based on findings from the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts, found that 54 percent of teachers surveyed said they use generative AI tools for lesson planning, classroom activities, grading, or other instructional purposes. At the same time, many educators expressed concern that students’ growing use of AI could negatively affect learning, critical thinking, and academic integrity.
The findings come as school systems across Georgia continue developing policies for the responsible use of artificial intelligence in classrooms. State education leaders have also released guidance encouraging schools to use AI in ways that support teaching while protecting student privacy and promoting ethical use.
State Identifies Three Georgia Beaches With Elevated Fecal Bacteria Levels
Anyone planning a trip to the Georgia coast this summer may want to check beach conditions before heading into the water.
State officials have identified 15 miles of beachfront on Tybee Island, St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island where elevated levels of enterococci, a type of fecal bacteria, have exceeded recreational water quality standards. The affected beach segments have been classified as “not supporting” recreational use under the Clean Water Act.
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, enterococci bacteria can originate from wastewater, failing septic systems, stormwater runoff, wildlife, and pet waste. While the bacteria itself is used as an indicator, elevated levels may signal the presence of other disease-causing organisms that can increase the risk of illness for swimmers.
State officials are working to develop cleanup plans for the affected waters, and public comments on those plans are being accepted through July 16. Before visiting Georgia’s beaches, officials recommend checking the latest advisories through the Georgia Healthy Beaches program
Spark Day Happening Today In Summerville
A community event aimed at supporting local special needs programs and Special Olympics athletes is happening today in Summerville.
“Spark Day” will be held today, Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Dowdy Park. The event is being organized by the Speak Life Chattooga County Special Needs Support Group.
Organizers say the fundraiser will support adults participating in Special Olympics activities, along with children involved in summer programs. Community members, vendors, and local resource groups are expected to take part, with no vendor fees for the event.
Spark Day will feature local vendors, baked goods, art, jewelry, T-shirts, coffee, and community resources. Organizers also hope the event helps families connect with programs and services available throughout Northwest Georgia.
The goal is to make Spark Day an annual community tradition focused on inclusion, fun, and support for special needs families across the region.
Chattooga County Unemployment Rate Edges Up In May
Chattooga County’s unemployment rate edged slightly higher in May, according to newly released figures from the Georgia Department of Labor.
The county posted a jobless rate of 3.8 percent for May, up from 3.7 percent in April. Despite the small monthly increase, the local rate remains relatively low as Georgia continues to report strong employment numbers statewide.
Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said May traditionally brings a new wave of workers into the job market as graduates begin looking for employment. She said Georgia’s growing workforce remains one of the reasons companies continue to invest across the state.
Statewide, Georgia has now surpassed 5 million jobs, a milestone labor officials say reflects continued opportunity for both new workers and experienced professionals.
For Chattooga County, the latest numbers show a modest increase in unemployment heading into the summer months, while the overall labor market remains steady.
Arrest Report - Friday - June 26, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, June 26, 2026:
Heat And Storm Chances Increase Across Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia This Weekend
As summer settles into Northwest Georgia, residents can expect a hot and increasingly humid weekend with the possibility of scattered thunderstorms each afternoon.
The National Weather Service says temperatures across Chattooga County will climb into the upper 80s today before reaching around 90 degrees on Saturday. While much of today should remain mostly sunny, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop during the afternoon across portions of North Georgia. A few storms could produce gusty winds, frequent lightning, and locally heavy rainfall, but widespread severe weather is not anticipated today.
Saturday brings a slightly greater risk for stronger storms as a weak weather disturbance and an approaching cold front move into the region. Forecasters say scattered to numerous thunderstorms could develop during the afternoon and evening, with a few capable of producing isolated damaging wind gusts. Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County, is included in a Marginal Risk for severe weather, meaning isolated severe storms are possible.
The heat will become an increasing concern heading into next week. Afternoon heat index values are expected to reach the upper 90s this weekend before climbing to near or above 105 degrees Monday through Wednesday as temperatures rise into the mid-90s and humidity remains high. If the forecast holds, heat advisories may be issued early next week.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and remain weather aware Saturday afternoon and evening in case stronger thunderstorms develop.
Summerville Receives Grant Reimbursement For New Soccer Mini-Pitch
The City of Summerville has received a $187,798.50 grant reimbursement for construction of a new soccer mini-pitch at the Fairgrounds property near Fairway Recreation.
The City of Summerville, with assistance from the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission, successfully applied in 2025 for the GA 100 Initiative Project soccer mini-pitch grant. The project was funded through a $100,000 contribution from the Atlanta United Foundation’s GA 100 Initiative and $87,798.50 from the Atrium Health Floyd-Polk Foundation.
The new 60-foot by 120-foot soccer mini-pitch will provide additional recreational opportunities for local youth and families while enhancing Summerville’s growing parks and recreation offerings.
Additional support for the Fairgrounds improvements included a $20,000 grant from the Menlo-Tillotson Foundation for new restroom facilities and a $10,000 contribution from Georgia Power for electrical upgrades at the site.
Future plans for the Fairgrounds property include adding a full-size soccer field and expanded parking to support continued growth in recreational programming and community events.
Chattooga County School System Hiring Maintenance Technician
The Chattooga County Board of Education is accepting applications for a Maintenance Technician position to help ensure school facilities throughout the district remain safe and operating efficiently.
The full-time position is benefits eligible and follows a 208-day work schedule each school year. Employees work a four-day schedule with most Mondays off and participate in a rotating on-call schedule to respond to after-hours emergencies. Pay is based on certifications and experience, with wages up to $27.21 per hour.
Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED along with HVAC certification and/or electrical technician experience. Candidates should also have working knowledge of building maintenance trades, be able to work independently or as part of a team, climb ladders or scaffolding, lift heavy objects, possess a valid driver’s license, and successfully complete fingerprinting and a criminal background check.
Applications are available through the Superintendent’s Office or online at www.chattooga.k12.ga.us by selecting Menu, District Services, then Human Resources.
Completed applications should be submitted to Dawn Campbell, Human Resources Director, at the Chattooga County Board of Education, 33 Middle School Road, Summerville, Georgia 30747.
Walker County Deputies Assist In Chattooga County Shoplifting Arrest
A Chattooga County woman was arrested on a charge of theft by shoplifting after investigators say she was identified through store surveillance video and later located by Walker County deputies.
According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Alan Garmany responded on June 19 to a report of a shoplifting at a local business. Store employees told the deputy they observed 32-year-old Crissy Leigh Ingram on surveillance video remove a pair of purple aviator-style sunglasses from a display, conceal them in her pocketbook and leave the store without paying.
Store personnel provided investigators with surveillance footage and a vehicle tag number, which was relayed through Chattooga County 911 to surrounding law enforcement agencies. Walker County Sheriff’s deputies soon located a vehicle matching the description and detained a woman matching the suspect shown in the surveillance footage.
Deputy Garmany met Walker County deputies at the Walker County line near the Highway 27 and Highway 151 intersection, where custody of Ingram was transferred. She was then transported to the Chattooga County Jail without incident on the shoplifting charge. The incident was recorded on the deputy’s body-worn camera.
GNTC Offering Night Classes For Diesel Technician Program
Georgia Northwestern Technical College is making it easier for working adults and others with busy schedules to prepare for a career in the diesel industry by offering night classes in its Diesel Equipment Technology program.
According to GNTC, diesel technicians are in high demand as freight transportation continues to grow, creating an ongoing need for skilled professionals to maintain and repair diesel-powered vehicles and equipment.
Graduates of the program can pursue careers in a variety of settings, including independent maintenance and repair shops, corporate fleet maintenance, truck leasing and rental operations, and trucking logistics facilities.
Early registration for fall classes is underway, with the registration deadline set for August 4.
For more information about the Diesel Equipment Technology program or to apply, visit gntc.edu or call 866-983-4682.
County Dumpsters To Open Sunday Afternoons At Chattooga Transfer Station
Chattooga County residents will soon have another opportunity to dispose of household garbage at the county’s free dumpsters.
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen says the dumpsters at the Chattooga County Transfer Station on Stockade Road in Summerville will now be open on Sunday afternoons for residents bringing household garbage.
Allen noted that the Transfer Station itself will not be open on Sundays, only the free household garbage dumpsters.
The county also reminds residents of the current transfer station fees, which are scheduled to take effect Monday, September 8, 2025. Fees listed include $60 per ton for in-county garbage, $80 per ton for out-of-county garbage, $45 per ton for brush, $160 per ton for car tires, $260 per ton for truck tires, and $10 each for mattresses and box springs. The minimum dump fee is $5.
Community Resource Center To Host July 6 Resource Fair With Free 24-Pack Pepsi Product Giveaway
The Community Resource Center of Chattooga is inviting area residents to attend its monthly Resource Fair on Monday, July 6, where families can connect with local organizations and learn about services available in the community.
The Resource Fair will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. in the cafeteria. Representatives from a variety of local agencies and organizations will be available to provide information and connect attendees with programs and resources designed to help individuals and families.
As a thank-you for attending the Resource Fair, participants will qualify to receive a free 24-pack of beverages. Available choices include Pepsi, Pepsi Zero Sugar, Mountain Dew, Mug Root Beer and Zero Sugar Gatorade.
The Community Resource Center’s Food Pantry will also be open that day from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. in a separate location within the building.
Organizers note that visitors do not have to pick up a food box on July 6, but they must attend the Resource Fair to qualify for the free 24-pack of drinks.
The Community Resource Center says its goal is to ensure everyone has access to resources, support and opportunities that help families thrive.
Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office Hiring Victim Witness Advocate
The Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office is currently hiring for a Victim Witness Advocate position.
The office prosecutes state-level criminal offenses in Dade, Catoosa, Chattooga and Walker counties and says its mission is to seek justice for the citizens of Georgia with courage, integrity and professionalism.
The District Attorney’s Office works in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment with a focus on professional development, ethical prosecution and public service. The office’s team includes assistant district attorneys, investigators, victim advocates and support personnel.
Anyone interested in applying should send a resume and cover letter to:
Lookout Mountain Judicial District Attorney
Attn: Elena Floyd
P.O. Box 1025
LaFayette, GA 30728
Applications may also be emailed to efloyd@pacga.org.
Animal Advocates Remind Pet Owners To Prepare Ahead Of July Fourth Fireworks
With July Fourth fireworks just around the corner, Animal Advocates of Chattooga County is reminding pet owners to make sure their dogs and cats have proper identification before the holiday.
Each year, shelters and rescues see an increase in lost pets following fireworks displays, as loud noises can cause animals to panic, run away or escape from yards and homes.
Pet owners are encouraged to make sure their animals are microchipped and that all contact information is current. Collars and ID tags should also be secure, readable and up to date. For pets without an ID tag, advocates say even a simple collar with a phone number written on it can help reunite a lost pet with its owner.
Owners of pets that become especially anxious during fireworks should also consider talking with their veterinarian about calming options before the holiday arrives.
Animal Advocates of Chattooga County says the time to prepare is now, before fireworks begin, to help make sure pets stay safe and make it home.