Arrest Report - Sunday - August 16, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, August 16, 2026:
Dangerous Heat Continues For Northwest Georgia
Dangerous summer heat will remain the main weather concern across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia through Monday, with heat index values climbing above 100 degrees and the possibility of strong to severe thunderstorms developing across far North Georgia Monday afternoon and evening.
Sunday will be sunny and hot, with an afternoon high near 97 degrees. The heat index could reach around 102, making it feel several degrees hotter than the actual temperature. Winds will remain light, becoming westerly around 5 mph. Sunday night will be mostly clear with a low near 76.
The National Weather Service says oppressive heat will continue into early next week, with a Heat Advisory remaining in effect through Monday evening. Forecasters indicate additional heat-related advisories or warnings may be needed as the prolonged stretch of extreme temperatures continues.
Monday could be even hotter. The forecast calls for a high near 98 degrees, while the heat index could climb as high as 106 degrees. Some locations across the region could approach or reach 100 degrees for an actual air temperature.
A weather disturbance and frontal boundary approaching the region will also increase thunderstorm chances late Monday. There is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 p.m.
Forecasters say a few storms across far North Georgia could become strong to severe Monday afternoon and evening. The primary concern will be damaging wind gusts of up to 60 mph. Northern Georgia is included in a Marginal Risk, Level 1 of 5, for severe weather, while the Slight Risk, Level 2 of 5, reaches into portions of the far northern counties.
Any thunderstorms that develop could also produce frequent lightning, gusty winds and locally heavy rainfall.
Temperatures remain well above normal through much of the coming week. Tuesday will be sunny with a high near 94, followed by mostly clear conditions Tuesday night and a low near 72. Wednesday will be sunny with a high near 95.
Another chance of afternoon thunderstorms returns Thursday, with a 30 percent chance after 2 p.m. and a high near 95. Rain and thunderstorm chances increase to around 40 percent Friday as a change in the weather pattern begins to bring slightly cooler temperatures.
By Saturday, the high is forecast to be closer to 90 degrees, although scattered showers and thunderstorms will remain possible.
Anyone spending time outdoors Sunday or Monday should take the prolonged heat seriously. Drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in air conditioning or shade, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the afternoon, and never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.
Fairways to Freedom Golf Tournament to Support Recovery Programs in Northwest Georgia
Golfers and community supporters will have an opportunity to hit the course for a cause this fall as Recovery Alive and Connect City Church prepare to host the Fairways to Freedom charity golf tournament.
The tournament is scheduled for Monday, October 19, at Stonebridge Golf Club, with registration opening at 8 a.m. and a shotgun start scheduled for 9 a.m.
Fairways to Freedom serves as a major fundraising effort for Recovery Alive, a faith-based ministry focused on helping individuals and families find lasting freedom from addiction, trauma and other life-controlling struggles.
Recovery Alive describes its approach as centered around “Power. People. Process.”, providing Christ-centered recovery pathways for people dealing with addiction, hurts, habits and hangups.
Money raised through the tournament will support local Recovery Alive programs, including weekly recovery meetings, community outreach and assistance for families navigating the challenges associated with addiction and recovery.
Organizers say every sponsorship and golf entry directly supports programs designed to provide hope, healing, recovery and long-term support in communities across Northwest Georgia.
Connect City Church, a signature ministry of Recovery Alive Inc., is partnering in the event and helping coordinate volunteers, sponsorships and community involvement.
Registration is $125 for an individual golfer or $500 for a four-player team.
Businesses, churches, civic groups and other organizations are also encouraged to participate through sponsorship opportunities. Organizers say sponsorships help cover the cost of holding the tournament, allowing more of the proceeds to go directly toward ministry and recovery programs.
The Fairways to Freedom tournament is designed to bring golfers, community members and supporters together for a day on the course while raising money for programs serving individuals and families affected by addiction and other life challenges.
Summerville Police Investigate Alleged Shoplifting at Dollar General
The Summerville Police Department investigated a reported shoplifting incident at the Dollar General located at Commerce Street and Kelly Street after a store employee reported seeing a man allegedly conceal merchandise and leave without paying.
According to an incident report from the Summerville Police Department, Officer Brandon Lindsey responded to the store on August 7, 2026, and met with store employee Mr. Allen Wells.
The report states that Wells provided surveillance video for the officer to review. While watching the footage, Officer Lindsey reported seeing a male identified as Andrew Burse select a grocery item from an aisle and conceal it in the front of his pants.
According to the report, Burse then allegedly selected a second grocery item and concealed it in the rear of his pants before leaving the business without paying for the items.
Officer Lindsey asked whether the store wanted to pursue criminal charges. According to the report, Wells said he needed to consult with the store manager before making that decision. Wells reportedly indicated that management would likely request a criminal trespass warning against Burse rather than prosecution.
During the investigation, Officer Campbell located Burse near Circle K on Marvin Avenue. Lindsey then met with Burse and spoke with him about the incident.
According to the police report, Burse admitted taking two items from Dollar General without paying. The report states that Burse told officers he was hungry, had recently been released from jail, lacked a support system and was attempting to secure employment at Burger King.
Police advised Burse that he was not permitted to return to the Dollar General pending the business’s decision. Officers also told him law enforcement would follow up after store management determined whether it wanted to pursue charges or issue a formal criminal trespass notice.
Construction Underway on New $400,000 Splash Pad in Summerville
Construction is officially underway on a new splash pad at the Summerville Recreation Department on Highway 100, bringing the city closer to adding another summertime recreation option for local families.
The Summerville City Council approved the project in June after receiving a bid from GameTime totaling $399,928.89. The bid was the only one received by the city and was unanimously approved by the council.
Summerville Recreation Director Adam Wilson said the city worked closely with GameTime to finalize the design and pricing for the new attraction.
“We’ve been working diligently with GameTime, trying to get this perfected and get a really nice splash pad for the community, and we believe that we’ve done so,” Wilson said when the project was discussed in June.
Summerville Mayor Rickey Hughes also thanked Wilson for his work on the project and recognized the effort involved in developing the plans and preparing the bid package.
The new splash pad will feature a free-flow water system, meaning water will move through the splash pad’s features rather than being recirculated. According to city officials, the design is expected to help address both maintenance and public health considerations.
At nearly $400,000, the project represents a significant investment in Summerville’s recreation facilities and will provide another warm-weather activity for children and families using the Highway 100 recreation complex.
With ground now broken and construction underway, city leaders are looking forward to watching the new facility take shape over the coming months.
The project will also give Summerville its own public splash pad option. The nearby Town of Trion currently operates a public splash pad during the summer months for area residents.
Pet Owners Urged to Protect Animals From Dangerous Summer Heat
With oppressive heat continuing across Northwest Georgia, the National Weather Service in Atlanta is reminding pet owners that high temperatures can pose a serious danger to dogs, cats and other animals.
Heat index values have climbed into the triple digits across portions of the region, making it important for pet owners to take extra precautions when animals are outside.
The National Weather Service recommends limiting pets’ time outdoors and making sure they have access to plenty of fresh water. Pets should also have access to a cool, shaded or air-conditioned location where they can escape the heat.
Hot pavement is another concern. Asphalt, concrete and other surfaces exposed to direct sunlight can become much hotter than the surrounding air and can burn an animal’s paws. Pet owners should avoid walking animals across hot pavement, particularly during the hottest part of the afternoon.
The National Weather Service also cautions owners not to rely solely on fans or outdoor kennels to keep pets safe during extreme heat. When temperatures and humidity are high, those measures may not provide enough protection.
Most importantly, never leave or lock a pet inside a vehicle, even for a short period of time. Temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise rapidly and become deadly.
Pet owners should also watch for signs that an animal may be overheating. Excessive panting, drooling, weakness, confusion, vomiting or collapse can indicate a heat-related emergency and require immediate attention.
With dangerous heat expected to remain a concern across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, residents are encouraged to remember that pets are vulnerable to extreme temperatures and depend on their owners to keep them cool, hydrated and safe.
GDOT Seeking Public Input on Rural Walking and Biking Plan
The Georgia Department of Transportation is asking residents to weigh in on a statewide plan aimed at making walking, bicycling and other forms of active transportation safer and better connected in Georgia’s rural communities.
GDOT is currently developing its Rural Statewide Active Transportation Plan, which focuses primarily on small towns and rural areas outside of the state’s major metropolitan planning areas.
Active transportation includes traveling without a traditional motor vehicle, including walking, bicycling and micromobility options such as e-bikes and scooters.
The plan is intended to provide GDOT with a framework for future decisions and investments involving pedestrian and bicycle projects, networks and programs. Among the major goals are improving safety, connectivity and comfort for people traveling on foot or bicycle in rural Georgia.
The planning process began in 2023 and has included analysis of existing conditions, identification of areas where improvements could have the greatest impact and input from residents, local leaders and other stakeholders.
GDOT is now in the final phase of prioritizing strategies, objectives and projects that could guide implementation of the plan.
As part of that process, GDOT is asking the public to review proposed strategies and provide feedback on which initiatives should receive priority.
The plan also includes a proposed Priority Active Transportation Network, designed to help identify communities and corridors where investments could have the greatest impact. Potential improvements could include sidewalks, bicycle-friendly shoulders, bike lanes, shared-use paths and safer crossings.
Public input will help GDOT determine which strategies and actions should move forward as the agency develops its approach to improving walking and bicycling opportunities in rural communities.
Residents interested in participating can visit GDOT’s Rural Statewide Active Transportation Plan website and select “Take Our Survey” to provide feedback HERE
Multi-Employer Job Fair Set for September 22 in Walker County
Job seekers across Northwest Georgia will have an opportunity to connect with multiple employers during an upcoming hiring event in Walker County.
WorkSource Georgia and the Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority will host a multi-employer job fair from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, at the Walker County Civic Center, located at 10052 North Highway 27 in Rock Spring.
Employers from Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, and Walker counties are expected to participate and will be recruiting for a variety of available positions.
Those planning to attend are encouraged to create an individual WorkSource Georgia account before the event at www.worksourcegaportal.com.
Job seekers should also bring multiple copies of their resumes so they can speak with several employers and apply for available opportunities during the fair.
The event provides residents from across the four-county region with a chance to meet directly with employers and learn more about current job openings throughout Northwest Georgia.
Hunters for the Hungry Helps Feed Georgians Through Donated Venison
A Georgia program is turning successful deer harvests into meals for families in need across the state.
The Georgia Wildlife Federation’s Hunters for the Hungry program allows hunters to donate harvested venison, which is then processed and distributed to food banks and other hunger-fighting organizations throughout Georgia.
The program also supports wildlife management efforts. Many landowners already work to control deer populations in order to protect crops, timber and other resources, and Hunters for the Hungry provides a way for that harvested game to benefit local communities.
According to the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the program received more than 140,000 pounds of donated venison last year, providing more than 579,000 meals to Georgians in need.
Supporters say the program combines conservation, responsible wildlife management and food assistance while making use of a valuable source of protein.
Hunters and others interested in supporting the effort can learn more through the Georgia Wildlife Federation’s Hunters for the Hungry program at gwf.org/ghfth.
Museum of LaFayette Seeks Cherokee Artifacts for New Exhibit
The Museum of LaFayette is asking area residents to help preserve and share an important part of Northwest Georgia’s history as it develops a new exhibit focusing on the Cherokee people, their lives, removal, and lasting legacy.
Museum organizers are seeking Cherokee-related artifacts that individuals or families would be willing to loan for the upcoming exhibit. The goal is to help tell the story of the Cherokee Nation and the people who lived in what is now LaFayette and Walker County during that period.
Items being sought include land lottery documents or tickets, Cherokee tools, baskets, pottery, trade goods, ceremonial and everyday objects, photographs, historical documents, and other artifacts connected to the Cherokee Nation and the Trail of Tears.
The exhibit will examine not only the removal of the Cherokee but also their lives and communities before removal and the legacy that continues today.
Local artifacts and documents can provide an especially valuable connection to that history, helping visitors understand that the events surrounding Cherokee removal were not simply part of a distant national story but also took place in communities across Northwest Georgia.
Residents who have Cherokee-related items in family collections or among historical materials are encouraged to consider allowing the museum to display them on loan. Those who are unsure whether an item would be appropriate for the exhibit are also encouraged to contact the museum.
Anyone with an artifact, photograph, document, or other item that may be of interest can contact the Museum of LaFayette at info@museumoflafayette.org.
Arrest Report - Saturday - August 15, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, August 15, 2026:
Oppressive Heat Continues Across Northwest Georgia; Heat Index Could Reach 103 Today
Dangerous summer heat will remain the main weather concern across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this weekend, with triple-digit heat index values expected and only limited relief during the overnight hours.
A Heat Advisory remains in effect as hot temperatures combine with high humidity across much of north and central Georgia. Forecasters say the prolonged heat could be particularly dangerous for people spending extended periods outdoors and for vulnerable residents without adequate cooling.
For Saturday, skies will be mostly sunny with a high near 94 degrees, but the humidity could make it feel as hot as 103 degrees. There is a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m.
Any thunderstorms that develop could become strong, with damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning and locally heavy rainfall among the primary concerns. The Storm Prediction Center has placed portions of the region under a Marginal Risk, Level 1 of 5, for severe thunderstorms.
Tonight will offer little relief from the heat. Temperatures are expected to fall only into the lower to middle 70s under partly cloudy skies. Forecasters are particularly concerned about the lack of overnight cooling during this extended period of hot weather.
Sunday could be even hotter, with sunshine and a high near 97 degrees. Heat index values could again climb to around 102 degrees. Sunday night will remain warm, with a low around 75.
The heat is expected to peak early next week. Monday’s forecast calls for a high near 98 degrees locally, while portions of north and central Georgia could approach or reach 100. A slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms will remain possible.
Temperatures should ease only slightly by the middle of the week. Highs are forecast near 94 Tuesday, 95 Wednesday, 93 Thursday and 91 Friday. Afternoon thunderstorm chances are also expected to gradually increase later in the week as the upper-level ridge responsible for the extreme heat begins to weaken.
Anyone working or spending time outside should take the heat seriously. Drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in air-conditioned or shaded areas and limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the afternoon. Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, and check on elderly neighbors and others particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness.
The combination of consecutive hot days and warm nights will make this prolonged heat episode especially hazardous, with additional heat-related advisories or warnings possible into early next week.
Most Chattooga County Boat Owners Will Not Receive A 2026 Tax Bill
Most boat owners in Chattooga County will not receive a tax bill in 2026 following a change in state law that increased the exemption on boat accounts.
Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton said she has received several questions about boat values for 2026 and reviewed billing information to get a better idea of how many taxpayers may be affected.
According to Hampton, there are currently 823 boat accounts in Chattooga County, but only 44 are expected to receive a tax bill.
The reason is a recent change in the law that increased the exemption on boat accounts from $7,500 to $20,000.
That means boats valued at $20,000 or less should not generate a tax bill. Owners of boats valued at more than $20,000 may receive a bill based on the taxable value listed on the account.
Hampton noted that she cannot answer questions about how individual boat values are determined, but she explained the process taxpayers can use to review their information.
Each January, after the Georgia Department of Natural Resources provides boat ownership information to the Chattooga County Assessor’s Office, the Assessor’s Office sends paperwork to taxpayers. That is the time for property owners to report or review values for boats, jet skis, airplanes and other personal property.
Taxpayers who did not return the form and disagree with the value listed on their account are encouraged to visit the Chattooga County Assessor’s Office. Staff there can help complete the appropriate paperwork and review the account information.
Hampton said the main takeaway is that, because the exemption has increased to $20,000, the vast majority of boat accounts in Chattooga County will not generate a tax bill in 2026.
Summerville Man Charged With Public Indecency At Rome Movie Theater
A Summerville man is accused of exposing himself in the parking lot of Movies at Berry Square in Rome.
According to an arrest warrant, an employee of the movie theater was sitting in her vehicle when she noticed another vehicle, allegedly driven by 48-year-old Gary Lee Gilbert of Summerville, repeatedly driving around the parking lot.
The employee reportedly thought the behavior was unusual and began recording what was happening with her cell phone.
According to the warrant, Gilbert eventually parked and got out of his vehicle. Authorities allege that he was wearing a dress, bra and thong and subsequently removed the bra and thong.
The warrant states that Gilbert then sat down and his dress rode up, allegedly exposing his private parts while he was in the parking lot.
Gilbert was charged with misdemeanor public indecency.
The charge is an allegation, and Gilbert is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Berry College Announces Fall Senior Scholars Program For Adults 55 And Older
Adults age 55 and older will have an opportunity to continue learning, explore new interests and connect with others through the Fall 2026 Senior Scholars program at Oak Hill & The Martha Berry Museum.
The continuing education program, established in 1994, offers a variety of courses, lectures and special tours led by Berry College faculty and local experts.
This fall’s semester will feature more than 30 offerings covering history, literature, technology, the arts, wellness and local culture.
Participants will be able to explore topics ranging from the Declaration of Independence and the global response to the Holocaust to ballroom dancing, pickleball, mindfulness, creative writing and digital design using Canva.
Senior Scholars is designed to provide lifelong learning opportunities while also encouraging personal enrichment and community connections among participants.
The program is offered through Oak Hill & The Martha Berry Museum and Berry College.
Those interested in participating can contact Oak Hill & The Martha Berry Museum or visit its website for additional information about Fall 2026 courses, registration and scheduling.
Woman Arrested After Allegedly Stripping Down At Summerville News Office
A 37-year-old woman was arrested after authorities say she stripped down to her underwear and a sports bra inside The Summerville News office and then refused repeated requests from employees to leave.
According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy was dispatched to 20 Wildlife Lake Road on August 5 regarding a woman who had gone inside the business and would not leave.
The woman was identified as Emily Alysee Broome.
According to the Sheriff’s Office report, an employee told the deputy that Broome had been engaging in similar behavior around the city that morning.
The employee told authorities that Broome entered the lobby of The Summerville News and stripped down to her underwear and sports bra. Employees then reportedly asked Broome several times to leave the business, but she allegedly refused.
The report states that when the deputy arrived, Broome was wearing a black hoodie and appeared not to be wearing pants.
Broome reportedly told the deputy that she had been allowed to pick up free newspapers and claimed she had permission to be at the business.
Employees told the deputy that they wanted Broome criminally trespassed from the property.
According to the report, the deputy then placed Broome under arrest and transported her to the Chattooga County Jail, where she was turned over to jail staff without further incident.
The deputy then completed the criminal trespass paperwork for the business.
Broome was charged with disorderly conduct, according to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office incident report.
Walker County Commissioners Set Special Work Session On FY2027 Budget, Millage Rate
The Walker County Board of Commissioners will hold a special called work session next week to continue discussions surrounding the county’s upcoming budget and millage rate.
The work session is scheduled for Tuesday, August 18, at 1 p.m. in the conference room of the Walker County Administration Building, Courthouse Annex I, located at 101 S. Duke Street in LaFayette.
According to the meeting agenda, commissioners will focus on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget and millage rate.
The agenda calls for Chairwoman Teems to open the meeting, followed by attendance and discussion of the FY2027 budget and millage rate. The meeting will adjourn following that discussion.
The special called work session is open to the public.
Walker County says anyone requiring assistance to participate in the meeting due to a disability should contact the County Clerk prior to the meeting.
The meeting comes as county commissioners continue working through financial decisions that will determine spending priorities and the property tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year.
Chattooga County Schools To Release Students Early August 27-28 For Fair Traffic
All Chattooga County Schools will dismiss students early on Thursday, August 27, and Friday, August 28, as preparations get underway for events surrounding the Chattooga County Fair.
Students across the school system will be released at 1:30 p.m. on both days. The adjusted schedule is intended to help clear traffic from the area around Summerville Middle School ahead of fair activities.
School officials say lunch will be served as usual before students are dismissed.
All scheduled after-school activities and programs will continue as planned, despite the early dismissal.
Parents and guardians who have questions about the schedule or need additional information should contact their child’s school.
The early release schedule applies to all Chattooga County Schools on Thursday, August 27, and Friday, August 28.
Free Dog Vaccinations Available Today During Dog Daze In Downtown Summerville
Dog owners can get several important vaccinations for their pets at no cost today during Dog Daze in Downtown Summerville.
The event is being held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. today, Saturday, August 15, at the Summerville Depot and along East Washington Street.
Free rabies, DHPP and Bordetella vaccines will be available for dogs during the event. The vaccinations are sponsored by HSNEGA in partnership with the Chattooga County Animal Shelter.
Dogs must be over six months old and friendly with other dogs and people.
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter will also be on hand with adoptable dogs looking for forever homes.
Dog Daze will feature a full day of activities, including the Pup Strut Pet Parade at noon, a dog-and-owner look-alike contest, a dog photo booth, kiddie pool cooling station, pup cups, grooming, vendors, food and shopping.
A steam train is also expected to arrive in downtown Summerville at approximately 1 p.m.
Organizers are encouraging local dog owners whose pets need vaccinations to take advantage of the free clinic while they are available.
Dog Daze continues until 3 p.m. today in Downtown Summerville.
Motorcyclist Arrested After Alleged High-Speed Attempt To Elude Chattooga County Deputy
A 49-year-old man was arrested after a Chattooga County deputy reported that a motorcyclist attempted to elude him during a traffic stop on Highway 48.
According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, the deputy was parked at the Highway 48 Food Mart near James Street shortly after 1 p.m. on August 4 when he heard a motorcycle approaching.
The deputy reported checking the motorcycle with his in-car radar and clocking it at 74 mph in a posted 55 mph zone. He then pulled onto Highway 48 in an attempt to conduct a traffic stop.
According to the report, the motorcycle operator looked back toward the deputy and then accelerated. The deputy caught up with the motorcycle near Indian Trail and activated his emergency lights and siren.
The report states that the motorcycle failed to stop and that speeds during the pursuit ranged between 83 and 94 mph.
The deputy said he was able to obtain the motorcycle’s Georgia tag number during the pursuit. The report states that a black Mercedes SUV ahead of the motorcycle pulled onto the shoulder, and the motorcycle then passed the SUV in a no-passing zone near Fish Hatchery Road.
According to the report, the deputy moved closer to the motorcycle because of what he described as erratic driving. The motorcyclist then allegedly braked hard and veered off the roadway in a dangerous curve.
The deputy stopped and approached the rider, who complied when ordered to get off the motorcycle. The rider was then placed under arrest.
The rider was identified as Thomas Ray Bray.
According to the report, Bray allegedly told the deputy that he was not running and that the SUV had been getting over for the deputy’s emergency lights and siren.
Bray was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without further incident, while a towing service took possession of the motorcycle.
Bray was charged with fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer, reckless driving and speeding, according to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office report.