Arrest Report - Thursday - July 16, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, July 16, 2026:
Back to School Bash Happening Today at Chattooga High School
The annual Back to School Bash is happening today, Thursday, July 16, from 4 until 6 p.m. at Chattooga High School.
Coordinator Maisha Ludy says organizers are ready to welcome students and families for an afternoon of free activities, food and back-to-school resources.
Students attending the event can receive free backpacks and school supplies. Free hot dogs and shaved ice will also be available, along with music provided by DJ Marty Mar.
Four local barbers will offer free simple haircuts, while Primary Health Care will provide school-required Form 3300 paperwork. High for Sight will also offer free vision screenings for children ages 8 through 18.
Organizers emphasize that children must be present to receive a backpack and school supplies.
The Back to School Bash is open to students who attend Chattooga County Schools and Trion City Schools.
Ludy thanked the community, volunteers and participating organizations for helping make the event possible as local students prepare for the beginning of another school year.
Number of Immigrant Children in Georgia Foster Care Rises Amid Increased ICE Enforcement
The number of immigrant children entering Georgia’s foster care system has increased significantly over the past year as federal immigration enforcement actions have intensified, placing additional demands on the state’s child welfare system.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that 83 immigrant children entered Georgia state custody between Oct. 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. That compares to 46 children during the same six-month period a year earlier—an increase of roughly 80 percent. The figures were obtained from the Georgia Department of Human Services.
Although the number represents a small portion of the approximately 12,700 children in Georgia’s foster care system, officials say the increase comes as the Division of Family and Children Services continues to face staffing and budget challenges. The agency experienced an $86 million budget shortfall last year, forcing reductions in some foster care contracts.
Former DFCS Director Tom Rawlings told the AJC that cases involving immigrant children often require specialized services, including language assistance and support for children coping with the trauma of family separation. He said immigration enforcement decisions made at the federal level can have significant impacts on state child welfare agencies.
According to the Department of Human Services, state law requires DFCS to intervene whenever a child is left without a legal caregiver, regardless of the circumstances. Agency officials say they work with families, attorneys, and foreign consulates whenever possible to reunify children with their parents after deportation or relocation.
The AJC also reports that Georgia ranks among the nation’s leading states for immigration arrests during President Donald Trump’s second term, contributing to increased concern among immigrant advocacy groups and child welfare professionals about the growing number of children affected by immigration enforcement.
Heat, Humidity And Afternoon Storm Chances Continue Through The Weekend
A typical summertime weather pattern returns to Chattooga County and northwest Georgia Thursday, bringing hot and humid conditions along with another chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms.
Thursday will be mostly sunny with a high near 89 degrees. Heat index values could reach 97 during the afternoon. There is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 3 p.m. Winds will be calm early before becoming westerly at around 5 mph.
Any storms that develop are expected to diminish after sunset. While widespread severe weather is not anticipated, thunderstorms could still produce gusty winds, frequent lightning and locally heavy rainfall.
Thursday night will be mostly clear with a low near 72. There is a 30 percent chance of storms, primarily before 7 p.m.
Temperatures will climb slightly Friday, with a high near 90 and heat index values approaching 99. Showers and thunderstorms become more likely after 2 p.m., with a 50 percent chance of rain. Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 72.
Saturday and Sunday will remain hot, with highs near 90 and a 60 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms both days. Storm chances should decrease during the evening hours, with overnight lows near 72.
Forecasters say Friday and Saturday could be the hottest days of the extended period, with heat index values potentially reaching 100 to 105 degrees across parts of Georgia. Some areas of east-central Georgia could experience even higher apparent temperatures.
Forecast confidence decreases beginning Sunday because of a possible upper-level low developing over Florida and the northeastern Gulf. The National Hurricane Center is also monitoring the region for a low chance of tropical development. Any development could influence rainfall and humidity levels across Georgia early next week, although considerable uncertainty remains.
Drier and hotter conditions are currently forecast for Monday and Tuesday. Monday should be sunny with a high near 92, followed by a mostly sunny Tuesday with a high near 93. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms returns Wednesday.
Georgia Farmers Asked to Participate in Statewide Survey on Economic Challenges
Georgia farmers are being encouraged to participate in a new statewide survey designed to better understand the financial challenges facing agriculture and help shape future policy and advocacy efforts.
The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture, Georgia Farm Bureau, and the University of Georgia College of Public Health have partnered to launch the Georgia Farm Profitability Survey, which is open to farmers across the state through July 31.
Organizers say the anonymous survey is intended to collect Georgia-specific information directly from producers about the economic pressures affecting their operations. The results will be used to identify factors impacting farm profitability and to provide research-based data that can support future agricultural initiatives, communications, and legislative advocacy.
“We know Georgia farmers are facing significant challenges, and we want to hear directly from them,” said Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall. He said the survey will help the organization focus its efforts on the issues having the greatest impact on Georgia farm families.
The survey comes as many producers continue dealing with rising production costs, fluctuating commodity prices, labor shortages, severe weather, and other economic pressures that have reduced profitability across the agricultural sector. The Georgia Farm Bureau identified the sustainability of family farms as its top priority for 2026 after farm economics continued to worsen during 2025.
Researchers from the University of Georgia College of Public Health will oversee the analysis of the survey data. Following the survey period, the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture and Georgia Farm Bureau will publish a report summarizing the findings, which will help guide future advocacy efforts and the ongoing Strong Farms, Strong Georgia initiative.
The survey is anonymous, takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, and is open to all Georgia farmers.
Farmers interested in participating can complete the survey by visiting the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture website at www.gafoundationag.org before the July 31 deadline.
Trion Farmers Market Returns Today with Fresh Produce, Homemade Goods and Local Meats
The Trion Farmers Market returns today, Thursday, July 16, offering shoppers another opportunity to purchase fresh, locally grown produce and handmade products from area vendors.
The market will be open at the pavilion near the track field off Simmons Street in Trion.
This week’s selection includes fresh tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and potatoes, along with locally raised beef and pork. Shoppers will also find homemade treats including brittle, no-bake cookies, Pecan Tessies, fried pies and sourdough starter.
A variety of canned and specialty items will also be available, including pickles, relish, salsa, jams and jellies, and pickled eggs. Vendors will also be offering handcrafted products such as pain cream, hair oil, bug spray, salves and tinctures. Ice cream will also be available.
The Trion Farmers Market is held each Thursday and provides residents an opportunity to support local farmers, bakers, artisans and small businesses while purchasing fresh products produced throughout the region.
Atrium Health Floyd-Polk Foundation Awards More Than $2 Million in Community Grants
More than $2 million in grants has been awarded to nonprofit organizations across northwest Georgia and northeast Alabama through the Atrium Health Floyd-Polk Foundation’s 2026 Community Impact Grant program.
The grants will support projects focused on improving health, expanding access to care and addressing social determinants of health, including food insecurity, mental health, housing and transportation. The funding is part of the Foundation’s ongoing mission to invest in long-term solutions that improve the well-being of residents throughout the region.
According to Northwest Georgia News, the Foundation awarded grants to dozens of nonprofit organizations serving Floyd, Polk, Bartow, Gordon and Chattooga counties in Georgia, along with Cherokee County, Alabama. The Community Resource Center of Chattooga County was among the organizations receiving funding to support services provided to local residents.
Atrium Health Floyd-Polk Foundation President Dan Bevels said the goal is to support organizations that address the root causes of community challenges while strengthening partnerships throughout the region. Foundation leaders say they are focused on investing in projects that create lasting improvements in health and quality of life.
The Atrium Health Floyd-Polk Foundation was established in 2021 following the strategic combination of Floyd Health System and Atrium Health. Since its creation, the Foundation has awarded millions of dollars in grants, donations and sponsorships to improve health care access and community wellness across northwest Georgia and northeast Alabama.
Chattooga County Historical Society Seeking Volunteers to Help Preserve Local History
The Chattooga County Historical Society is asking residents to become involved in preserving the county’s history as the organization works to expand its archives, grow its membership and establish a permanent museum.
The Society, which has served Chattooga County for 40 years, says it is seeking volunteers to help collect and preserve photographs, family histories, documents and artifacts that tell the story of the community. Officials say many of the organization’s longtime volunteers have retired after decades of service, creating a need for a new generation of members to continue the work.
The Historical Society is currently focused on two major projects. One involves organizing its extensive collection of historical records and artifacts for a future museum in the historic vault of the former Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce building, now home to the Hurley Center. The second project is developing a permanent archive to preserve the county’s history for future generations.
The organization recently received a grant to help establish its archive and museum, but officials say volunteers remain essential to the effort. Opportunities include identifying photographs, documenting family histories, assisting with museum exhibits, helping with quarterly meetings and supporting special events.
The Society is also asking residents to search their homes for old photographs, family documents, newspaper clippings and other historical items that could help preserve Chattooga County’s heritage. Even if families prefer to keep original items, volunteers can assist with documenting or copying materials so the information is not lost.
No previous experience is necessary to become involved. Society leaders say anyone with an interest in local history is encouraged to participate.
The next meeting of the Chattooga County Historical Society will be held Sunday, July 19, at 2 p.m. at the Chattooga County Civic Center. The meeting is free and open to the public.
For more information, visit www.chattoogahistory.org or call 706-340-0830.
Town of Trion Seeking Bids for New Roof at Municipal Building
The Town of Trion is accepting sealed bids for a roofing project at a town-owned building located at 141 Echols Drive.
According to the invitation to bid, the project includes removing the existing gable roof and installing a new low-slope roofing system. The successful bidder will be responsible for providing all labor and materials necessary to complete the work.
Sealed bids must be submitted to the Town of Trion, Attn: Mayor Mickey D. McGraw, 1220 Pine Street, P.O. Box 850, Trion, GA 30753, no later than 11:45 a.m. on Friday, July 17. Bids should be clearly marked “New Roof.”
Bids will be opened publicly at noon on July 17 in the Council Room at Trion Town Hall. The town said the contract award will be announced at a later date.
No pre-bid conference will be held. Contractors with questions about the project should contact Brandon Croy at 706-859-1015 no later than 36 hours before the bid opening. Those interested in viewing the job site may coordinate with Croy during normal Town Hall business hours.
In addition to the bid proposal, contractors must submit an executed affidavit of non-collusion, an E-Verify compliance affidavit, a SAVE affidavit, and proof of an appropriate State of Georgia license. The selected contractor must also obtain a Town of Trion business license before work begins.
The Town of Trion reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive technicalities and informalities.
Woman Cited for Public Intoxication After Report of Looking Into Vehicles in Summerville
A Summerville woman was cited for public intoxication after police responded to reports of suspicious behavior near the intersection of Kirby Street and Bellah Avenue.
According to a citation issued by the Summerville Police Department, officers encountered Adrianna Nicole Jones, 30, of Summerville, at approximately 2:20 a.m. on July 14.
The citation states officers observed Jones in the area of Kirby Street and Bellah Avenue after reports that she had been looking into and through the windows of vehicles. A witness reportedly told police Jones was staggering and “didn’t appear normal.”
According to the officer’s narrative, Jones admitted she had consumed approximately half a bottle of wine. The report further states that officers detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage on her person and observed that she was unsteady on her feet.
Jones was issued a citation for Public Intoxication under Summerville City Ordinance 38-140. She is scheduled to appear in Summerville Municipal Court on Sept. 15 at 5:00 p.m.
As with all criminal charges and citations, the allegations contained in the citation are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Woman Arrested After Allegedly Driving on Suspended License and Fleeing Traffic Stop in Menlo
A Menlo woman is facing multiple charges after deputies say she drove away from a traffic stop despite being told she was under arrest.
According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Kimberly Joy Basham, 55, was arrested on July 11 and charged with Driving While License Suspended or Revoked (Misdemeanor), Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Police Officer (Misdemeanor), Obstruction of Officers (Misdemeanor), and traffic offenses.
The report states Cpl. Rob Villagomez was responding to a residence on 7th Avenue in Menlo at approximately 5 p.m. when he observed Basham driving a white Chrysler Impala. The deputy reported recognizing Basham from a previous encounter earlier this year and knew her driver’s license had been suspended.
After initiating a traffic stop, Cpl. Villagomez advised Basham she was under arrest because of her suspended license. According to the report, Basham was instructed to exit the vehicle but instead drove away before the deputy could remove her from the car.
The report states the deputy followed the vehicle while waiting for assistance from the Georgia State Patrol. Authorities say Basham continued driving through Menlo before stopping near Allen Keen Realty on Highway 48 East after a state trooper joined the pursuit.
Deputies reported Basham initially refused repeated commands to exit the vehicle before eventually complying after officers physically removed her from the driver’s seat. She was then taken into custody and transported to the Chattooga County Jail without further incident.
Arrest Report - Wednesday - July 15, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, July 15, 2026:
Humidity Sticks Around as Heat Builds; Typical Summer Storm Pattern Returns Through Next Week
Northwest Georgia will continue to experience warm, humid weather with daily opportunities for afternoon and evening thunderstorms through at least early next week, according to the National Weather Service.
For today, expect partly sunny skies with a high near 86 degrees. A slight chance of showers this morning will increase to scattered showers and thunderstorms after 11 a.m., with the greatest coverage during the afternoon and early evening. Rain chances are around 40 percent. While storms will be less widespread than Tuesday, the atmosphere remains very humid with tropical moisture still in place, creating what forecasters describe as “air you can wear.”
Tonight, skies become partly cloudy with only a slight chance of an evening thunderstorm before temperatures settle near 70 degrees.
Thursday will bring mostly sunny skies and a high near 88 before showers and thunderstorms become more likely after 2 p.m. Rain chances increase to 60 percent Thursday afternoon and evening.
The familiar summertime pattern continues Friday through the weekend, with mornings generally dry and hot before scattered to numerous afternoon and evening thunderstorms develop each day. High temperatures will climb from the upper 80s Thursday to around 90 Friday and into the lower 90s by the weekend and early next week.
While widespread severe weather is not expected, a few stronger storms could produce isolated damaging wind gusts. Forecasters say the risk of flash flooding remains localized, although areas that have received repeated heavy rainfall will be more susceptible to flooding.
Heat will also become an increasing concern as temperatures rise into the low to mid-90s through early next week. Combined with the high humidity, heat index values are expected to climb into the triple digits at times, and heat advisories may become necessary if the warming trend continues.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, and remain weather aware each afternoon as thunderstorms develop.
Heart and Vascular Screenings Available Today in Trion
Residents have an opportunity today to receive a quick heart and vascular health screening as AdventHealth brings its AngioScreen mobile screening unit to Trion.
The AngioScreen bus will be at AdventHealth Medical Group, 160 Central Avenue in Trion, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Staff will break for lunch from 11 a.m. until noon.
The screening costs $85 and is designed to help identify a person’s risk for heart disease and stroke. The non-invasive assessment takes about 10 minutes to complete and includes a carotid artery ultrasound for stroke screening, an electrocardiogram (EKG), Ankle-Brachial Index testing to evaluate circulation in the legs, and an abdominal aortic aneurysm screening.
Participants receive their results immediately following the screening.
No appointment is necessary, and walk-ins are welcome.
Payment may be made by cash, check, credit card, debit card, or Health Savings Account (HSA) and flexible spending account cards.
Traffic Stop Leads to Methamphetamine Arrest in Summerville
A routine traffic stop in Summerville resulted in the arrest of a Chattooga County man on methamphetamine charges after deputies reportedly discovered suspected drugs and drug paraphernalia inside his vehicle.
According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Ronald Wayne Gwin Jr., 48, was arrested on July 11 and charged with Possession of Methamphetamine, along with several traffic offenses.
The report states Deputy Matt Wilson was patrolling the area of U.S. Highway 27 at approximately 8:02 p.m. when he observed a gold 2011 Dodge Durango fail to stop at the stop sign at the intersection with Highway 27. The deputy also reported the driver failed to activate a turn signal before entering the highway.
After initiating a traffic stop, Deputy Wilson made contact with the driver, identified as Gwin. According to the report, the deputy detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. Gwin allegedly admitted he had smoked marijuana earlier in the day.
Deputies asked Gwin to step out of the vehicle and obtained consent to search his pockets. During the search, deputies reportedly located a hypodermic syringe in his shirt pocket. A second syringe found in his pants pocket allegedly contained a white crystalline substance that Gwin identified as methamphetamine, telling deputies he had used the drug earlier that morning.
A subsequent search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered additional hypodermic syringes, a container containing suspected methamphetamine, suspected methamphetamine residue, several used cotton swabs beneath the passenger seat, and a pipe containing suspected liquid methamphetamine.
According to the incident report, the suspected methamphetamine produced a positive result during a roadside field test.
Gwin was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Chattooga County Jail. The vehicle was released to a towing service.
Free Cave Geology Program and Guided Caving Trip Planned in LaFayette
Outdoor enthusiasts will have an opportunity to learn more about the caves beneath northwest Georgia during a free presentation and guided caving trip hosted by The Outpost and the City of LaFayette Parks and Recreation.
The first program in The Outpost’s new outdoor-focused speaker series will be held Thursday, July 23, at 6 p.m. at the MARS Theatre in downtown LaFayette.
The presentation will feature Eric Crisp, a Walker County resident, professional geologist and experienced caver. Crisp will discuss cave geology, the relationship between rock, water and time, and the natural processes that have created the extensive cave systems found throughout the region.
Organizers say the program is designed to help participants better understand the geological features located beneath northwest Georgia and why the area’s network of caves is considered unique.
A free guided caving trip will follow on Saturday, July 25. The trip will also be led by Crisp and is open to both beginners and experienced cavers. Transportation will be provided.
Space for the caving trip is limited, and advance registration is required. Anyone interested in reserving a spot should call The Outpost at 706-639-1589.
The July 23 presentation at the MARS Theatre is free and open to the public.
Chattooga County Schools Release 2026-2027 School Supply Lists
With the first day of school just a few weeks away, Chattooga County Schools has made school supply lists available to help families prepare for the start of the 2026-2027 school year.
Students will return to class on JULY 24th, and parents are encouraged to begin purchasing supplies now to avoid the rush as the new school year approaches.
Supply lists are available for each school in the district and outline the classroom materials students will need for the upcoming year. Requirements vary by grade level and teacher but generally include items such as notebooks, folders, pencils, crayons, glue sticks, tissues, composition books, binders, markers, colored pencils and other classroom essentials.
The official school supply lists can be accessed through the following links:
- Leroy Massey Elementary School: https://app.teacherlists.com/schools/92643-leroy-massey-elementary-school
- Lyerly Elementary School: https://app.teacherlists.com/schools/92644-lyerly-elementary-school
- Menlo Elementary School: https://app.teacherlists.com/schools/92645-menlo-elementary-school
- Summerville Middle School: https://app.teacherlists.com/schools/92646-summerville-middle-school
- Chattooga High School: https://app.teacherlists.com/schools/92641-chattooga-high-school
Parents should review the appropriate list for their child’s school and grade level before shopping, as some teachers may request additional classroom-specific supplies after the school year begins.
Additional back-to-school information, including the district calendar and school contact information, is available on the Chattooga County School District website at www.chattooga.k12.ga.us.
Man Arrested After Deputy Recognizes Suspended Driver's License During Menlo Traffic Stop
A Chattooga County man was arrested July 8 after a sheriff’s deputy recognized him during a traffic stop and determined he was driving with a suspended license.
According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Chase David Slater, 20, was charged with Driving While License Suspended or Revoked (Misdemeanor).
The report states Deputy Justin Claxton was patrolling the area of Highway 48 near the Menlo Ballfields at approximately 4:18 p.m. on July 8 when he observed a white Dodge Durango with a cracked windshield. The deputy reported recognizing the driver from previous encounters and knew Slater’s Georgia driver’s license had been suspended.
After initiating a traffic stop, the deputy made contact with Slater, who reportedly acknowledged that he knew his license was suspended.
Based on that admission and the deputy’s prior knowledge, Slater was taken into custody without incident. He was transported to the Chattooga County Jail, and the vehicle was released to its registered owner, according to the report.
Multicultural Market and Train Arrival Celebration Set for Saturday at Summerville Depot
Downtown Summerville will host a full day of food, culture, entertainment and railroad activities Saturday, July 18, during a Multicultural Market and special train arrival celebration at the historic Summerville Depot.
The free community event will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and will feature foods and traditions representing cultures from around the world. Organizers say the event is designed to celebrate friendship, diversity and the role communities can play in creating a more welcoming and positive world.
Special seating will be available inside the depot’s freight room, where visitors can enjoy food and scheduled entertainment throughout the event.
One of the day’s highlights will be the arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum passenger train. The train is expected to reach the Summerville Depot between 12:30 and 1 p.m.
Following the arrival, the public will have an opportunity to watch the steam locomotive being turned on the Summerville Turntable. The turntable demonstration is a popular attraction among railroad enthusiasts and visitors.
Community members are invited to gather at the depot to welcome passengers as they arrive in downtown Summerville.
Organizers say the celebration is also intended to encourage residents and visitors to present the community to the state, nation and world with a positive attitude and a commitment to building friendships across cultures.
Admission to the Multicultural Market and train arrival celebration is free.
For additional information, visit the City of Summerville’s Facebook event page or contact Summerville Main Street at 706-859-0900.
Georgia Health Officials Urge Residents to Wash All Produce, Including Items Labeled “Prewashed”
The Georgia Department of Public Health is urging residents to take additional precautions when handling fresh fruits and vegetables following updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The CDC updated its recommendations Tuesday to advise consumers to thoroughly wash all produce before eating, cutting or cooking it, including fruits and vegetables labeled “prewashed.”
The Georgia Department of Public Health revised a news release originally issued Monday to reflect the new recommendation as health officials continue monitoring a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis that has sickened more than 1,000 people.
DPH officials said they are not currently aware of any Georgia-specific outbreaks, clusters or potential connections to the multistate outbreak. A national investigation into possible common sources remains underway.
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite. People may become infected by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the parasite. According to DPH, treated water in the United States does not contain Cyclospora.
Cases acquired within the United States occur in Georgia each year, although state health officials say most cases are typically associated with international travel.
The most common symptom of cyclosporiasis is watery diarrhea, which may include frequent or explosive bowel movements. Other symptoms may include bloating, stomach cramps and a loss of appetite.
Most people recover without serious complications, but hospitalization may be necessary when a person becomes dehydrated because of prolonged diarrhea. The illness may last from several days to more than a month. Symptoms may also appear to improve before returning one or more times.
Anyone experiencing prolonged or recurring symptoms is encouraged to contact a healthcare provider.
Health officials say basic food safety and hygiene practices can help reduce the risk of infection.
Consumers are advised to wash their hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables. All produce should be thoroughly rinsed under running water before it is eaten, cut or cooked, even when the packaging says the product has already been washed.
Firm fruits and vegetables, including melons and cucumbers, should be scrubbed with a clean produce brush. Damaged or bruised portions should be removed before the produce is prepared or consumed.
Cut, peeled or cooked fruits and vegetables should be refrigerated as soon as possible and no later than two hours after preparation.
The updated guidance applies to fresh produce purchased from grocery stores, farmers markets and other retailers.