Arrest Report - Tuesday - December 16, 2025
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, December 16, 2025:
Cool Start Gives Way to Midweek Warm-Up in Chattooga County, Rain Returns Thursday
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are waking up to another clear and chilly day, but a noticeable warm-up is on the way as the week progresses.
High pressure remains firmly in control through midweek, keeping skies clear and conditions dry. Overnight lows have dipped into the 20s, with afternoon highs rebounding into the 40s today and Tuesday. By Wednesday, a shift to southwest winds will help temperatures climb closer to 60 degrees, signaling a more seasonable feel for mid-December.
Despite the warming trend, dry conditions continue through Wednesday, and a Fire Danger Statement remains in effect until 7 PM Tuesday due to low humidity and dry fuels across the region.
Changes arrive Thursday as a cold front pushes into Northwest Georgia. Rain chances return by mid-day Thursday, with showers lingering through the evening and early overnight hours before clearing out Friday morning. Forecast confidence is high for rainfall, with northern areas—including Chattooga County—likely seeing one-half inch to locally one inch of rain, while totals decrease farther south.
Temperatures cool slightly behind the front on Friday but remain far from Arctic levels, with highs ranging from the mid-40s to near 60 and overnight lows mostly staying in the upper 20s to near 30.
The weekend starts on a quieter note. Saturday looks dry with seasonable temperatures, though clouds may linger. Another fast-moving system could bring a lower chance of rain on Sunday, but significant rainfall is not expected at this time.
Looking ahead, early next week may turn noticeably warmer as a stronger ridge builds over the southern U.S.
Bottom line: enjoy the midweek warm-up, stay mindful of fire danger today, and keep an umbrella handy for Thursday.
Burglary Reported at Roseway Circle Residence in Summerville
Summerville Police are investigating a reported burglary at a residence on Roseway Circle that occurred on December 12, 2025, according to an incident report from the Summerville Police Department.
An officer was dispatched to the home after receiving a report that a window air conditioner had been removed from a window on the far right side of the house. Officers entered the residence through the window and found no one inside, but observed clear signs of forced entry and theft, including opened drawers and disturbed items.
Police noted the house did not appear to be actively occupied. Inside, officers found two heaters left running, which the victim stated were not left on prior to the incident. The victim also reported the home is equipped with active cameras, which captured video showing a white male and white female taking items from the property.
According to the report, the victim believes the suspects removed framed pictures from the home. Video footage reportedly shows the individuals taking the items, and the investigation remains ongoing.
AdventHealth Redmond, Murray Named to Forbes’ Top Hospitals in America 2026 List
Residents of Northwest Georgia seeking medical care can take added confidence in local options after AdventHealth Redmond and AdventHealth Murray were recognized in Forbes’ inaugural “Top Hospitals in America 2026” list.
Both hospitals earned an overall 5-star rating, placing them among an elite group nationwide. In Georgia, the honor is especially notable—both facilities were among only a small number statewide to receive the top rating, highlighting strong performance in care quality, efficiency, patient experience, and outcomes.
The rankings were created in partnership with health care technology and analytics firm Inovalon, with guidance from a panel that included clinicians, researchers, and patient advocates. Hospitals were evaluated across four key pillars: outcomes, best practices, value, and patient experience. While thousands met initial inclusion standards, only a limited number across the country ultimately received the overall 5-star designation.
“Our number one priority is to provide the highest level of care for our patients and our communities,” said Isaac Sendros, president and CEO of AdventHealth Georgia. “I am grateful for our teams’ commitment to our mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ. This recognition affirms their passion for providing exceptional care to our neighbors in Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama.”
The announcement follows other recent recognition for AdventHealth Redmond, including a latest “A” safety grade from The Leapfrog Group, an independent hospital safety watchdog.
AdventHealth says it remains committed to addressing critical community health needs by expanding whole-person, faith-based care and strengthening partnerships across Northwest Georgia—supporting patients in body, mind, and spirit.
Town of Trion Sets Workshop / Council Meeting for Dec. 18
The Town of Trion will hold a regular Workshop / Council Meeting on Thursday, December 18, 2025, in the Town Hall Conference Room.
The Workshop will begin at 6:00 p.m., and the Regular Meeting will follow shortly after.
Residents with questions or comments are encouraged to contact Trion Mayor Lanny Thomas or the Town Hall Office, and staff will do their best to provide any requested information.
Walker County “Stocking Full of Love” Toy Store Helps 1,400 Children This Christmas
Walker County Sheriff Steve Wilson says this year’s Stocking Full of Love toy store was a major success, providing holiday help for families across the county.
“The 2025 Stocking Full of Love, toy store was a big success,” Wilson said. “Thank you to Coordinator Bruce Coker, the SFOL members and all of the volunteers that worked Friday evening and Saturday. The fund provided toys to approximately 1,400 needy Walker County children. Also, I appreciate everyone who has provided financial support to the fund this year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”
The Stocking Full of Love program is a long-running local effort that collects donations throughout the year to make sure children in need have gifts to open on Christmas morning. The program operates like a holiday “toy store,” where approved families can select items for their children—making the experience more personal, and giving parents and guardians the chance to choose age-appropriate gifts.
Sheriff Wilson credited the impact this year to the teamwork behind the scenes, highlighting Coordinator Bruce Coker, Stocking Full of Love members, and the volunteers who helped staff the toy store over the weekend. Supporters say the program depends heavily on community donations and volunteer time, and every contribution helps stretch resources to reach more children during the holidays.
Chattooga Library to Host “Holly Jolly Holiday Party” Dec. 18 in Summerville
Families across Chattooga County are invited to celebrate the season at the Holly Jolly Holiday Party at the Chattooga Library on Thursday, Dec. 18, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The event, hosted by the Sara Hightower Regional Library System, is open to the public and geared toward all ages. Organizers say the evening will feature a hot cocoa bar, cookie decorating, and a special holiday visit from Mrs. Claus.
The party will be held at the Chattooga Library, 360 Farrar Drive, Summerville.
Contraband Crackdown: Hays State Prison Again in the Spotlight as Smuggling Attempts Continue Across Georgia
An attempted drug-smuggling incident tied to Hays State Prison over the weekend is the latest reminder of a growing problem facing Georgia’s prison system: contraband—especially drugs and cell phones—continuing to make its way into facilities through increasingly aggressive and sophisticated methods.
Across Georgia, investigators say contraband smuggling has expanded beyond traditional concealment and “hand-to-hand” drops, with drones and coordinated outside help becoming a major concern. Those illegal deliveries can include narcotics that raise the risk of overdoses, violence, extortion, and gang activity behind bars—danger that doesn’t just stay inside the prison walls.
For Chattooga County, Hays has become a recurring focal point. Smuggling attempts and contraband-related incidents have repeatedly drawn attention to the facility, with law enforcement sometimes responding not only at the prison perimeter but also along nearby roads and communities. Officials warn that when contraband activity escalates, it can quickly spill into public safety situations outside the fence line. Chattooga County has already seen how quickly these situations can spill beyond prison fences: earlier this year, law enforcement responded to reports of a suspected contraband drop near Hays, a case that escalated into a high-speed chase and a serious-injury crash.
The weekend incident adds to growing concerns from corrections and law enforcement agencies that the contraband pipeline into Georgia prisons remains active and evolving. As authorities continue to investigate these cases, the message is clear: stopping contraband is not only about prison security—it’s about protecting correctional staff, inmates, and the public across the communities that surround these facilities.
Georgia DPS Graduates New Commercial Vehicle Officers Following 19 Weeks of Training
The Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) Division of the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) marked a major milestone Friday with the graduation of its 14th Commercial Vehicle Officer (CVO) School at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth.
The ceremony celebrated the completion of 19 weeks of intensive training for nine new commercial vehicle officers, who will now begin assignments across the state to support highway safety and enforcement efforts.
Remarks during the ceremony were delivered by Colonel William Hitchens III, DPS Commissioner; Captain Mark Riley, Director of Training; and Lieutenant J.D. Roberson, CVE Training Coordinator. Lieutenant Colonel Kendrick Lowe administered the oath of office, while Seth Millican, President and CEO of the Georgia Motor Trucking Association, gave the graduation address.
Class President Officer Brett Brown reflected on the significance of the moment, saying,
“Today marks the end of one journey and the beginning of an even greater one. We did not get here by accident. We earned every bit of this moment.”
Class Leadership
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Vice President: Officer Marquis Brooks
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Secretary: Officer Rachel Hinton
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Treasurer: Officer Kyndall Cain
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Chaplain & Pennant Bearer: Officer Austin Carroll
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Sergeant-at-Arms: Officer Bryan Allison
Special Awards and Honors
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Firearms Proficiency, Top Gun, and Highest Academic Average (97.32): Officer Bryan Allison
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Also awarded a $500 scholarship from Reinhardt University
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Driving Proficiency: Officer Austin Carroll
New Officers and Assignments
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Bryan Allison – Cobb County | Region C
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Marquis Brooks – Clayton County | Region D
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Brett Brown – Chatham County | Region F
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Kyndall Cain – Gordon County | Region A
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Austin Carroll – Harris County | Region D
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Rachel Hinton – Lowndes County | Region H
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Kevin Rumphol – Walker County | Region A
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Michael Taylor – Union County | Region B
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Rehan Waugh – Haralson County | Region D
The newly sworn officers will now begin serving communities throughout Georgia, reinforcing DPS’s mission to enhance roadway safety and ensure compliance within the commercial motor vehicle industry.
AAA: Cold Snap Brings a Cool Break on Georgia Gas Price Average
While extreme cold settles across Georgia, drivers are seeing a bit of relief where it matters, at the pump as the state’s average gas price moved lower this week. As of Monday, the statewide average sits at $2.76 per gallon, though daily price changes remain possible.
“It may be freezing outside, but at least filling up the tank doesn’t sting quite as much right now,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA-The Auto Club Group. “With oil supplies high and demand easing, gas prices are sliding and expected to stay low through the holidays.”
Compared to recent benchmarks:
- It’s 3 cents lower than last week
- 6 cents lower than last month
- 15 cents lower than this time last year
For those filling up a standard 15-gallon tank, the cost now comes to approximately $41.40.
Nationally: Winter Chill Brings a Warm Surprise at the Pump
This holiday season, drivers are unwrapping a welcome gift at the gas pump: prices have dipped 4 cents to $2.91. The drop is fueled by lower crude oil costs, weaker demand, and the switch to cheaper winter-blend gasoline, factors working together to keep prices down.
The most expensive metro markets in Georgia are Savannah ($2.86), Macon ($2.80), and Atlanta ($2.79).
The least expensive metro markets in Georgia are Brunswick ($2.67), Catoosa-Dade-Walker ($2.65), and Albany ($2.63).
Area gas price averages are Chattooga ($2.70), Walker ($2.70), Floyd ($2.67), Gordon ($2.71), DeKalb, AL ($2.56), Cherokee, AL ($2.55).
There's Hope For The Hungry will be distributing free food on Wednesday, December 17th
There’s Hope For The Hungry will be distributing free food on Wednesday, December 17th from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM. There’s no ID required for the food, but it must be picked up in person. Food will be available at South Summerville Baptist Church, located on Highway 48 in Summerville.
Arrest Report - Monday - December 15, 2025
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, December 15, 2025:
Walker County Man Sentenced to Life After Jury Conviction on Multiple Felony Charges
A Walker County man has been sentenced to life in prison following a jury trial in Lafayette, Georgia, according to a press release from the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office.
Officials said Christian Austin Raines, 24, was convicted on eight felony counts involving crimes against two minor family members. The case was tried before Chief Superior Court Judge Brian House after a three-day trial, and prosecutors presented testimony and investigative evidence gathered during the investigation.
Authorities credited local law enforcement and the Children’s Advocacy Center for their work on the case, including interviews conducted as part of the investigative process. Prosecutors said the investigation led to warrants being secured and the case being brought to trial.
After the jury returned guilty verdicts on all counts, the court held a sentencing hearing. Judge House imposed a life sentence, ordering that the first 30 years be served in prison, the release stated. The District Attorney’s Office emphasized that cases involving harm to children are prioritized and prosecuted aggressively, and praised the coordinated work of investigators, victim advocates, and the prosecution team.
The Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office urged the public to report suspected abuse and reminded community members that resources are available to support victims and families during investigations and court proceedings.
Cold Weather Advisory For Northwest Georgia - Warm Up On The Way
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this Monday morning as a blast of Arctic air sends temperatures plunging into the teens, with wind chill values in the single digits in some locations. The coldest readings are expected in low-lying and rural areas, where residents may feel the harshest impacts during the early morning hours.
Temperatures in our area as of 5 AM:
- Summerville – 18
- Armuchee – 19
- LaFayette – 17
- Mentone – 11
- Gaylesville – 16
Despite the frigid start, conditions will improve quickly. High pressure settling over the region will bring clear skies and sunshine, allowing temperatures to rebound into the upper 30s to near 40 degrees later today. Winds will gradually ease, reducing the dangerous “feels-like” temperatures by midday.
Cold conditions return tonight, with overnight lows falling back into the 20s across Northwest Georgia. Tuesday will remain dry, continuing a gradual warming trend as daytime highs edge upward.
By midweek, a noticeable shift in the weather pattern arrives. Southwest winds on Wednesday will usher in warmer air, pushing afternoon highs into the 50s and even low 60s across Chattooga County and surrounding areas. While clouds will increase, rain is unlikely during the day.
The most impactful weather of the week is expected Thursday, when a stronger system approaches from the west. Forecast confidence continues to grow for rain developing across Northwest Georgia, with rainfall totals currently projected between one-quarter and one-half inch. Temperatures ahead of the system will surge, making Thursday the warmest day of the week, with some locations possibly nearing 70 degrees—an unusually warm December day for the region. While thunderstorms are being monitored, severe weather is not currently expected.
Behind the system, cooler air returns for Friday and Saturday, but not to extreme levels. Highs should settle back into the 50s to low 60s, near seasonal norms. Another potential rain system may arrive Sunday, though forecast confidence remains low.
Looking ahead to next week, long-range guidance suggests warmer-than-average temperatures may once again build across Northwest Georgia as high pressure strengthens over the eastern United States.
Drone Leads to Arrest in Major Prison Contraband Bust Near Hays State Prison
On Saturday, December 13, at approximately 7:30 p.m., deputies were alerted to a suspicious male carrying a duffle bag who entered the woods off Underwood Drive near Hays State Prison. Deputies, Trion Police, Warden Jones, and members of the prison staff quickly responded and established a perimeter around the area.
Sheriff’s Investigator and drone pilot Daniel Sanford responded and deployed a thermal drone, quickly locating the individual and tracking his movements while relaying information to officers on the ground. The suspect, possibly startled by nearby property owners hunting coyotes, exited the woods near the Verizon store along Highway 27, where deputies and an off-duty Summerville Police officer were waiting. He was taken into custody without incident.
The suspect initially provided false identification information and claimed he had only gone into the woods to “use the bathroom.” Following his arrest, law enforcement officers and prison officials, assisted by a Gordon County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit, searched the wooded area and located a large backpack. Inside were 21 packages containing marijuana and tobacco, more than 20 cell phones, an electric Dremel tool with metal cutting blades, security bits, a handheld driver, and other contraband items. Two additional similar packages were discovered Sunday morning by K-9 Kendy and Deputy Nick Robinson in the same area.
The suspect was identified as 22-year-old Demarco Letroy Statham Jr. of Atlanta. Prison officials stated he had been released from another Georgia prison a few months earlier. He was charged with multiple offenses including Criminal Attempt to Provide Contraband to an Inmate (Felony), Possession of More Than an Ounce of Marijuana (Felony), Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute (Felony), Use of a Communication Facility to Commit a Felony (Felony), Obstruction of an Officer (Misdemeanor), Criminal Trespass (Misdemeanor), Loitering and Prowling (Misdemeanor), and Possession of Drug-Related Objects (Misdemeanor).
“I would like to thank everyone for their quick response to this situation,” said Sheriff Mark A. Schrader. “My office, along with Hays State Prison staff and Warden Jones, take these types of calls very seriously and work together to aggressively fight attempts to introduce contraband into the prison.”
Holiday Shipping Deadlines Approaching for Christmas 2025 Delivery
With Christmas just days away, shipping carriers are reminding customers that key deadlines are approaching to ensure packages arrive by Christmas Day 2025. Shoppers across northwest Georgia are encouraged to ship early and double-check carrier-specific cutoffs to avoid last-minute surprises.
For USPS standard services, including USPS Ground Advantage and First-Class Mail, the recommended deadline for Christmas delivery is Wednesday, December 17. Customers needing faster service can use USPS Priority Mail by Thursday, December 18, while Priority Mail Express must be sent by Saturday, December 20.
Private carriers also have firm deadlines. UPS and FedEx premium services, such as Next Day Air or Overnight delivery, generally allow shipping as late as Monday, December 23, depending on the origin and destination. However, these services come at a higher cost and may have limited availability during peak holiday volume.
Those shipping to international destinations or remote U.S. locations, including Alaska and Hawaii, should plan for earlier deadlines, typically around December 16–17, due to longer transit times and customs processing.
Shipping experts stress that deadlines can vary by location and service level, and weather or high package volume may cause delays. Consumers are urged to check directly with USPS, UPS, or FedEx for the most accurate information and to ship as early as possible for the best chance of on-time delivery.
Summerville City Council to Hold Special Called Meeting This Evening at City Hall
The City of Summerville will hold a special called meeting this evening (Monday, Dec. 15, 2025) at 5:30 p.m. at Summerville City Hall to consider several agenda items, including a year-end budget ordinance, recreation upgrades, and property matters tied to a local family donation.
Mayor Harry Harvey and the Summerville City Council will open with roll call, invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, and approval of the agenda. The meeting will then move to the mayor’s comments, announcements, and the introduction of guests and visitors.
In new business, council members are scheduled to conduct the first reading of the FY 2024–2025 Year-End Budget Ordinance, with discussion and possible action.
The council will also consider awarding a bid for a sports lighting project at the Summerville and Fairway recreation ballfields to MUSCO Sports Lighting, LLC, contingent upon the company providing a required performance bond.
Other items include a vote to authorize the mayor to sign the State of Georgia’s Revocable License Agreement, along with a quit-claim deed for donated tracts of property from the Hurley family. In a related action, the agenda also calls for authorizing the city clerk to sign a charitable contribution statement acknowledging the donation.
The meeting is expected to wrap up with an opportunity for public comments before adjournment.
Latest Health Inspection Scores - First Half of December, 2025
Here are the latest health inspection scores from the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department for the first half of December, 2025:
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MARYLAND’S FRIED CHICKEN
- 10626 COMMERCE ST SUMMERVILLE, GA 30747
- Phone Number: (706) 859-5019
- Permit Type: Food Service
- Permit Number: FSP-027-000078
- Last Inspection Score: 96
- Last Inspection Date: 12-11-2025
- For More Information Call: (706) 857-3377
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HENRY’S RESTAURANT
- 10757 COMMERCE ST SUMMERVILLE, GA 30747
- Phone Number: (706) 857-5210
- Permit Type: Food Service
- Permit Number: 027-056
- Last Inspection Score: 100
- Last Inspection Date: 12-04-2025
- For More Information Call: (706) 857-3377
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LITTLE CAESARS PIZZA
- 11600 HWY 27 SUMMERVILLE, GA 30747
- Phone Number: (706) 857-7676
- Permit Type: Food Service
- Permit Number: FSP-027-000119
- Last Inspection Score: 100
- Last Inspection Date: 12-03-2025
- For More Information Call: (706) 857-3377
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THE GREAT AWAKENING COMPANY (BASE OF OPERATION)
- 33 MARVIN AVE SUMMERVILLE, GA 30747
- Phone Number: (706) 331-2311
- Permit Type: Food Service
- Permit Number: FSP-027-000124
- Last Inspection Score: 95
- Last Inspection Date: 12-03-2025
- For More Information Call: (706) 857-3377
Should you ever have any complaint with any food service or tourist accommodation that operates in Chattooga County, you may register that complaint by calling the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department at 706-857-3377.
GNTC President Heidi Popham Elected to SACSCOC Board of Trustees
Georgia Northwestern Technical College President Heidi Popham has been elected to serve on the board of trustees for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the accrediting body for degree-granting higher education institutions across the southern states.
Popham was elected as part of Georgia’s delegation during the 2025 SACSCOC Annual Meeting, held Dec. 6–9 in Nashville, Tennessee. Her three-year term as a trustee begins Jan. 1.
“I am honored to have been elected to serve as a Trustee and am eager to support the Commission’s continued work in ensuring quality, integrity and accountability across our member institutions,” Popham said.
Popham was named GNTC president in 2019 and has spent her career building from within the college. She began at GNTC in 1995 as executive assistant to the president, later becoming director of Institutional Effectiveness in 2007 and vice president of Institutional Effectiveness in 2009. She also served as the college’s accreditation liaison, and in 2016 was promoted to executive vice president before taking the top post.
She earned a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management from Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, along with a master’s degree and doctoral degree from the University of Georgia.
Speed Limit to Be Reduced on Penn Bridge as Safety Improvements Move Forward
Recent Accidents on Penn Bridge Road are prompting changes
A winding section of Penn Bridge Road near the Chattooga River will soon see a lower speed limit as officials take action to address ongoing safety concerns. According to Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen, the change comes after repeated vehicle accidents and hazardous driving conditions in the area.
For years, the curve near Trion has been the site of multiple wrecks, with several incidents leaving vehicles overturned and ending up in the river. Recent photos shared widely online have renewed calls for safety upgrades. The current 45 mph speed limit will be reduced to 35 mph, aiming to make the roadway safer for both local and through traffic.
County officials, working with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS), have been reviewing the corridor for potential improvements. Engineers have pointed to factors such as road geometry, limited shoulders, unstable embankments, and the need for improved roadside protection.
Possible upgrades being discussed include improved signage and striping, guardrail enhancements, and other engineering changes to reduce the risk of vehicles leaving the roadway.
Drivers are urged to slow down and use extra caution in the area as the new limit takes effect and additional safety measures are evaluated.