Arrest Report - Wednesday - January 21, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, January 21, 2026:
Winter Weather Possibilities Should Be Monitored Between Now and the Weekend
A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for Mentone, Alabama from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon, and forecasters say the same storm system could bring significant winter weather impacts into Northwest Georgia—especially the higher elevations on Lookout Mountain in Chattooga and Walker Counties, where communities like Cloudland often see conditions more similar to Mentone than the valleys below.
The watch calls for moderate to heavy accumulations of snow, sleet, or ice beginning Friday night and continuing through Saturday night, with impacts potentially lingering into Sunday. In the Mentone area and across portions of north central, northeast, and northwest Alabama, forecasters say snow and sleet totals could reach at least two to three inches, while ice accumulations could exceed one quarter of an inch, with locally higher amounts possible. That level of icing can bring down tree limbs and power lines, leading to power outages and blocked roads. Travel may become extremely difficult or even impossible at times, and residents are being urged to delay travel if they can.
The National Weather Service forecast discussion for North Georgia indicates a high-impact winter weather event is anticipated this weekend, with significant travel impacts likely and the possibility of power outages. The setup begins to take shape late this week, as a cold front moves into Georgia and stalls near the I-85 corridor. Scattered showers are expected Thursday, and while temperatures should be too warm for wintry precipitation in most locations, the discussion notes that some of the highest elevations in the North Georgia mountains could see brief mixed precipitation early Friday, though no accumulation is expected from that initial phase.
Forecasters say Thursday into Friday will bring the first push of rainfall, with projected totals of one-half to one inch across northern Georgia. The bigger concern arrives as Friday night turns into Saturday morning, when the main winter precipitation threat begins. A deepening trough over the eastern United States and a low pressure system pushing inland from the Pacific are expected to work together to produce a strong, moisture-rich storm track across the southern U.S. and into the Southeast. As that moisture arrives and colder air becomes established, precipitation is expected to transition from rain to wintry conditions across much of North Georgia, especially along and north of Interstate 20.
For Chattooga and Walker Counties, the forecast points to a sharp difference between the higher elevations on Lookout Mountain and the valley areas. On Lookout Mountain, including the Cloudland area, colder air tends to hold longer and arrive sooner, and that increases the likelihood that precipitation changes over earlier to sleet, freezing rain, and snow compared with locations in the valleys. That means conditions on the mountain can deteriorate quickly, with roads becoming slick before the changeover happens below. The risk of ice accumulation is also typically higher at elevation, where colder surface temperatures support freezing rain and where ice-loading on trees and lines can more readily trigger outages.
In the valleys of Chattooga and Walker Counties—areas like the lower terrain along the major road corridors—temperatures can stay just warm enough at times for rain or a less persistent wintry mix, at least at the start of the event. Even so, forecasters emphasize that much of North Georgia is expected to be affected, and the exact north-south placement of the cold air and the storm track will determine whether valley locations spend more time in rain, sleet, freezing rain, or snow. The National Weather Service notes uncertainty for areas south of I-20, but for North Georgia the confidence is increasing that wintry precipitation will occur, and that impacts could be long-lasting.
Forecast guidance shared in the discussion underscores the potential severity. For areas north of I-20, there is a 40 to 50 percent chance of one-half inch or more of ice accumulation through the weekend, a 25 to 30 percent chance of three-quarters of an inch or more, and a 15 to 20 percent chance of an inch or more. There is also a 30 to 45 percent chance of at least two inches of snow accumulation over the same period. Forecasters say snow is more likely to be the dominant precipitation type in far north Georgia, while freezing rain and a wintry mix may become the main concern across the rest of North Georgia, including the Atlanta and Athens areas. They also note there remains a chance the event transitions toward more snow late Sunday into Monday, though that outcome is still uncertain.
Even once the storm system moves out, lingering impacts are expected. The discussion indicates temperatures on Monday may not rise much above freezing across North Georgia, meaning any ice or snow that accumulates—especially on Lookout Mountain—could remain on roads, trees, and power lines. If travel becomes difficult over the weekend, conditions may not quickly improve Monday in areas that stay below freezing, and some of the effects could continue into Tuesday before temperatures climb into the upper 30s to near 40.
Residents in the higher elevations of Chattooga and Walker Counties on Lookout Mountain should be prepared for the possibility of significant icing, slick and potentially impassable roads, and power interruptions, particularly from Friday night through Sunday. Valley communities should also prepare for hazardous travel and possible outages, especially if colder air pushes farther south or arrives sooner than expected. Emergency managers and forecasters say now is the time to review family emergency plans and make preparations for hazardous winter weather, including having supplies on hand in case travel is not possible and power is disrupted.
National Weather Service Forecast for Northwest Georgia:
UPDATE - WEDNESDAY - 4:30 AM - Henry’s BBQ Destroyed by Fire in Summerville, Cause Under Investigation
Henry’s BBQ Fire Likely Started Near Front Heater; Employee Heard Popping Before Smoke Filled Dining Area
Fire officials now say the Tuesday night fire at Henry’s BBQ in Summerville may have started in or around a heater near the front of the restaurant. Summerville Police Chief and Public Safety Director Brian Ozment said an employee was in the back of the building preparing for business the next day when she heard popping sounds coming from the front. When she went to check, Ozment said the front area was already filled with heavy smoke.
The blaze broke out Tuesday evening, January 20, at Henry’s BBQ, located at 10757 Commerce Street. Firefighters arrived to find the building reported as fully involved, with crews working aggressively to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading. In an initial report Tuesday night, officials had not released a cause, and Ozment told WZQZ News that more information was expected to become available as the investigation continued.
The restaurant building has been a familiar fixture in Summerville for decades, with a history that stretches back more than 60 years. It originally operated as Troy’s Drive In before the Ballenger family purchased the property in 1976, running it as a hamburger restaurant through several ownership changes, and later opening Ballenger’s Pizza Deli at the location in 1992. After Ballenger’s moved to Gore, the building went on to house two different Mexican restaurants before becoming Henry’s BBQ. Darlene Henry began renting the property more than 20 years ago, later purchasing it from the Ballengers in 2019, and the restaurant has remained a popular dining spot for Summerville and Chattooga County residents. WZQZ will continue to provide updates as officials release additional details.
Earlier Report:
Firefighters battled a major blaze Tuesday evening at Henry’s BBQ, located at 10757 Commerce Street in Summerville. The building was reported to be fully engulfed in flames as crews worked to contain the fire, and the cause has not been released.
Summerville Police Chief and Public Safety Director Brian Ozment told WZQZ News Tuesday night that more details are expected to be available later. WZQZ will provide updates as information is released by officials.
The building has been a longtime fixture in Summerville, dating back more than 60 years. It originally operated as Troy’s Drive In before the Ballenger family purchased the property in 1976 and ran it as a hamburger restaurant through several ownership changes, later opening Ballenger’s Pizza Deli at the location in 1992.
After Ballenger’s moved to Gore, the building was rented to two different Mexican restaurants. Darlene Henry began renting the property more than 20 years ago and later purchased it from the Ballengers in 2019, continuing its legacy as Henry’s BBQ, a popular dining spot for Summerville and Chattooga County residents.
DUI Arrest Reported After Trion Traffic Stop, Report Cites Prescription Drug Impairment Indicators
The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office reports 55-year-old Angela Donice Jennings was arrested following a traffic stop in Trion. In the incident narrative, a deputy says Jennings was observed failing to maintain her lane and nearly striking another vehicle before both vehicles pulled into a nearby parking area, identified in the report as the United Community Bank location.
According to the report, the deputy noted signs consistent with impairment during the contact and began a DUI investigation. The narrative states Jennings discussed taking prescription medication, and deputies also documented items in the vehicle during the investigation.
The report says field sobriety testing was attempted, including tests such as the walk-and-turn and other coordination and timing evaluations; the narrative notes Jennings did not complete every test and describes performance issues observed during those tests. The listed charges include DUI – Multiple Substances (Less Safe Driver) and failure to maintain lane.
The report states Jennings was advised of Georgia implied consent and agreed to a blood draw, then was transported for the blood draw before being taken to the Chattooga County Jail. As always, an arrest is an accusation, and the case will be handled through the court process.
Georgia Gas Prices Slide Again, Local Averages Updated for Northwest Georgia and Nearby Alabama
Georgia drivers are getting some relief at the pump as prices continue to ease, and Northwest Georgia is helping lead the way, with AAA showing some of the lowest averages in the state across Chattooga County and the surrounding area while neighboring DeKalb and Cherokee counties in Alabama are also sitting in the mid-$2.50 range.
AAA had Georgia’s statewide average at about $2.64 per gallon Monday, helped by cheaper winter-blend fuel and strong local supply, even as the national average ticked up due to refinery issues and global market swings. The statewide price is 2 cents lower than last week, 12 cents lower than last month, and 32 cents lower than this time last year, putting a typical 15-gallon fill-up at about $39.60.
In Northwest Georgia, AAA’s latest local averages list Chattooga County at $2.70 per gallon, Walker County at $2.70, and Gordon County at $2.71. AAA also reports the Catoosa–Dade–Walker region as one of the least expensive areas in Georgia, averaging $2.53, reflecting the broader tri-county market that includes Dade County.
Across the state line in Alabama, AAA’s local averages show DeKalb County at $2.56 per gallon and Cherokee County at $2.55. Drivers should still expect small day-to-day shifts, but seasonal demand and winter fuel blends typically support lower prices this time of year unless major refinery disruptions or international supply concerns change the outlook.
There’s Hope For The Hungry Food Distribution Happening Today at South Summerville Baptist Church
There’s Hope For The Hungry is distributing free food today at South Summerville Baptist Church in Summerville, Wednesday, January 21st, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. No ID is required, but food must be picked up in person.
There’s Hope for the Hungry is a North Georgia Christian ministry that works to combat food insecurity through partnerships with local churches. The organization uses mobile food pantry trucks to deliver groceries to distribution sites like this one, providing free food while also offering encouragement and prayer for anyone who would like it.
Families who attend can expect grocery-style boxes that may include canned goods, fresh produce, and other dry items, though supplies can vary depending on what is available.
WZQZ Pet of the Week: Meet Bird Dog at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter
Each week, WZQZ will feature a pet from the Chattooga County Animal Shelter that needs a loving new home, and this week’s spotlight is on Bird Dog. Bird Dog is a 2-year-old male who is neutered, good with other dogs, and ready to meet his match.
Shelter staff say Bird Dog would be a great choice for someone looking for a friendly companion, and his adoption fee is $25. If you’ve been thinking about adding a dog to your family, this is an affordable way to give an animal a second chance.
You can meet Bird Dog at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, located at 464 Red Oak Drive in Summerville. The shelter can be reached at 706-857-0679 for questions about adoption, requirements, or to confirm availability.
Regular hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Wednesdays by appointment, and the shelter is also open the first Saturday of every month for adoptions only.
Chamber Annual General Meeting Set for January 26 in Summerville
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce will hold its Chamber Annual General Meeting on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 6 p.m. The meeting will take place at 10050 Commerce Street in Summerville.
Chamber officials say the event is being held in place of the usual monthly luncheon and is not a black-tie event. Attire is listed as “come as you are after work,” ranging from casual to business casual.
A meal will be provided free for current Chamber members, while non-members will be asked to pay a small fee. Reservations are required for catering, and attendees are encouraged to reserve a seat in advance.
The agenda includes meeting the Chamber Board of Directors, including newly elected board members, along with an annual report and a presentation on the Chamber’s 2026 strategic plan. The evening will also include a Q-and-A session, door prizes, and networking.
Summerville to Revisit Sanitation Fees Later This Year After Awarding Solid Waste Contract
In a decision made late last year, the City of Summerville City Council awarded a multi-year bid for sanitation services, while signaling that sanitation fees will be reviewed and potentially adjusted later this year during the city’s mid-year budget process. City leaders said the approach gives residents and businesses time to look over possible changes before any new rates take effect.
During the meeting, a motion was made to award the Solid Waste Bid to Wright’s Sanitation. City Manager Winters explained the city’s previous three-year solid waste contract with Wright’s expired on October 10, 2025, and the city solicited bids for a new contract. Only one bid was submitted, from Wright’s Sanitation, at $17.00 per month for curbside residential collection, along with additional rates for other solid waste services.
Winters said the new contract would terminate on June 30, 2029, aligning the service period with the city’s full fiscal-year cycle, and staff recommended approving the bid. Council members emphasized they wanted to wait until mid-year to decide on any fee increases, with Council Member Joe Money, Jr. saying he preferred to hold off so “everyone time to review them,” a view echoed by Mayor Pro Tem Zachary Martin and supported by Council Members Mosley and Adams.
Winters said staff has projections for different rate scenarios and that one option is to defer changes until the mid-year budget review. The council agreed to take up the issue of rates during the mid-year budget process.
Georgia Senator Pushes Bill to End Data Center Tax Break, Citing $625 Million Cost to Taxpayers
A Georgia state senator is renewing a push to make data centers pay more of their own way, sponsoring legislation that would roll back a major sales tax incentive while arguing the savings could be used to reduce taxes for everyone else.
State Senator Chuck Hufstetler, a Republican from Rome, says he is a sponsor of Senate Bill 410, which targets Georgia’s data center equipment sales-and-use tax exemption. Hufstetler argues data centers should “pay all of their taxes, electricity, water and other costs like everyone else,” calling the exemption a “giveaway” and claiming it will cost Georgia taxpayers $625 million this year, with projections rising next year.
As filed, SB 410 would end the issuance of new exemption certificates after the bill takes effect, while allowing already-issued certificates to continue under existing terms. Supporters say that approach reins in future costs without pulling the rug out from under projects already approved under current law.
The proposal lands as data centers remain a hot topic statewide, with supporters pointing to investment and local tax bases, while critics question whether incentives and infrastructure costs—especially power and water demand—are being shifted onto the public. The measure now heads into the legislative process, where lawmakers will weigh the state’s competitiveness for large-scale projects against the budget impact and long-term utility and resource demands.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - January 26, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, January 20, 2026:
Fire Danger Today for Chattooga County, Weekend Winter Weather Risk Growing
Chattooga County and the rest of Northwest Georgia are under elevated fire danger today due to very low humidity and dry air combining with northwest winds this afternoon and evening, while a separate storm system later this week may bring rain and an increasing risk of impactful wintry weather over the weekend.
Forecasters expect relative humidity to fall to 25 percent or less for four or more hours today, with northwest winds around 8 to 12 miles per hour. With dry fuels in place, those conditions can allow fires to start more easily and spread faster in fields, brush, and wooded areas. A Fire Danger Statement remains in effect through 7 PM Tuesday, and residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and be cautious with anything that can create sparks.
Fire concerns may ease some on Wednesday as winds shift and moisture gradually returns, making conditions more borderline than today. Temperatures will also rebound closer to normal, but officials stress that fire safety remains important until humidity and fuel moisture improve more significantly.
Rain chances return Wednesday night into Thursday as a front moves into North Georgia, with only a small chance of a brief mix in the highest elevations near daybreak Thursday. Attention then turns to the weekend, when a stronger storm system could bring widespread precipitation and the potential for significant winter weather, including ice in parts of North Georgia; where the cold air sets up will determine who sees rain versus freezing rain or other wintry precipitation, so the forecast should be monitored closely through the week.
Chattooga Schools Launch New “Zonar MyView” App to Track Your Child’s Bus in Real Time
Chattooga County families will have a new tool to make bus rides easier to follow this school year. The Chattooga Transportation Department is launching Zonar MyView, a mobile app that allows parents and guardians to see exactly where their child’s bus is in real time, helping cut down on waiting and bringing extra peace of mind to afternoons and mornings on the route.
Getting started begins today at home: students who ride the bus are bringing a flyer in their backpacks with the information families need to activate the app. The flyer includes a Unique ID number that helps secure each account. Families can follow the directions on the flyer to download and set up Zonar MyView, then turn on alerts to get notifications when the bus is approaching their stop or home area.
The app is designed to reduce uncertainty for parents and students alike by showing bus location updates as they happen, helping families better plan pickup times and avoid standing outside longer than necessary. For anyone who has questions, needs help getting set up, or didn’t receive a flyer, the district is asking families to contact Mr. James Baird at jbaird@chattooga.k12.ga.us.
Summerville Man Arrested in Floyd County After Meth Found at Rehabilitation Home, Reports Say
A Chattooga County man was arrested late last week in Floyd County on drug charges after reports indicated he was found in possession of methamphetamine while at a rehabilitation home.
Floyd County authorities arrested Isaac Eric DeWayne Hines, 22, of Summerville, in Rome. Reports said the arrest followed an incident at the rehabilitation home where the suspected methamphetamine was discovered. Formal case details and court proceedings will determine how the charges move forward.
Chattooga County Board of Elections Meeting Scheduled for Thursday, January 22
The next meeting of the Chattooga County Board of Elections and Registration is set for Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 2 PM in the lobby of the Registrars Office, located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville. The meeting is open to the public.
The Board of Elections and Registration plays a major role in local voting, helping oversee voter registration and ensuring elections are conducted fairly and accurately. The board’s work includes maintaining voter rolls, preparing polling locations, training poll workers, and handling key steps in the election process, including the reporting and certification of results.
This meeting comes as attention turns to upcoming special elections for Congress, when deadlines and voting information can change quickly. Election officials encourage residents to stay informed, verify their voter registration, and be aware of important dates as the special election season approaches.
GBI Makes Arrest in Menlo Internet Project Case, Questions Still Remain
A long-running investigation into a failed internet project in Menlo resulted in an arrest earlier this month, but many questions are still unanswered about how the project was handled and how taxpayer dollars were spent.
More than $333,000 in public funds was paid out for a high-speed internet system intended to expand connectivity for Menlo residents and businesses. However, no service was ever delivered, and county records indicate the payments were authorized through multiple transactions connected to the project.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation arrested Jonathan Allen of Chattanooga, charging him with theft by taking for what court records describe as unlawfully and intentionally using Chattooga County funds for his own benefit. Sheriff Mark Schrader indicated authorities do not expect additional arrests connected to the case.
Even with the arrest, lingering concerns over project oversight, including questions about contracting, documentation, and how the county’s financial records were maintained at the time.
Kemp Proposes $1.8 Billion Expansion of I-75 Toll Lanes to Ease Metro Atlanta Gridlock
Gov. Brian Kemp says Georgia should invest $1.8 billion to relieve one of metro Atlanta’s most notorious traffic choke points by expanding toll express lanes on Interstate 75 in the southern suburbs. The proposal would add a lane in each direction along a heavily congested stretch in Henry and Clayton counties, where 12 miles of reversible express lanes already operate, and Kemp argues the change could boost traffic throughput on I-75 by as much as 70% as congestion surges back after the pandemic-era lull.
Kemp pitched the plan during the Georgia Chamber of Commerce’s Eggs & Issues event at Mercedes-Benz Stadium as part of a broader request for $2.4 billion in additional infrastructure spending, funded through an amendment to the current year’s budget using Georgia’s surplus cash. The package also includes $200 million to continue upgrades along Georgia 316, $250 million for local road improvements, $100 million aimed at bridges and rural communities, and $35 million to extend natural gas lines in rural areas.
Georgia Power CEO Says Rate Cuts Could Start June 2026
Georgia Power customers may see some relief on their monthly electric bills later this year. The company’s president and CEO, Kim Greene, said this week that Georgia Power plans to file upcoming changes that would lower rates starting in June 2026.
Greene made the announcement during the Georgia Chamber’s annual Eggs and Issues breakfast, where she noted the company will make two filings next month that would “collectively” reduce rates. Georgia Power did not provide details yet, saying more information will be released when the filings are officially submitted to regulators.
The news comes as many customers have complained about repeated bill increases in recent years. Georgia Power and the Public Service Commission have faced criticism after customer bills rose multiple times since 2022, driven by costs such as fuel, construction at Plant Vogtle, and other expenses.
Georgia Power last year requested — and received approval for — a three-year rate freeze, but the company still has to address separate costs tied to fuel used for power generation and storm recovery, including cleanup from Hurricane Helene, with storm-related costs estimated at more than one billion dollars. Some analysts warned those proceedings could still push bills higher even with the rate freeze in place, similar to a fuel cost process in 2023 that increased typical residential bills by nearly sixteen dollars a month.
Greene has said low natural gas prices could help keep bills down, and the company’s upcoming filings are expected to show how that could translate into lower rates for customers.
Georgia Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Ban Personal Devices in High Schools
Georgia lawmakers have introduced a new bill that would expand the state’s restrictions on student cell phone use, potentially banning personal devices in high schools statewide.
The proposal, House Bill 1009, was introduced Friday by Republican State Representative Scott Hilton of Peachtree Corners. Hilton also sponsored last year’s law that bans personal device use in elementary and middle schools, and he says strong feedback from teachers, administrators, and parents is why he wants to take the policy into high schools.
If approved, the high school ban would be bell-to-bell, meaning students would not be allowed to use personal devices during the school day. That includes cell phones, along with items like tablets, smartwatches, e-readers, and headphones.
The bill includes exceptions for students who need devices under an Individualized Education Program, a Section 504 plan, or another medical plan. Under the proposal, local school systems would have flexibility in how they enforce the ban and how it applies to things like off-campus activities, extracurricular events, and career-related programs. Hilton says schools could also use available school safety funding to purchase phone pouches or other storage options.
If House Bill 1009 passes and is signed into law, it would take effect for the 2027–2028 school year.
Gov. Kemp Budget Plan Highlights Pay Supplement, DREAMS Scholarships, and Major Investments for UGA
Governor Brian Kemp used his final State of the State address last week to roll out his recommendations for Georgia’s amended Fiscal Year 2026 budget and the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, calling for major investments aimed at affordability, student opportunity, workforce development, and public higher education.
One of the biggest statewide items in the proposal is $104.9 million to fund a one-time two-thousand-dollar salary supplement for all full-time, regular state employees.
For students, the governor is recommending $325 million for the University System of Georgia to provide matching endowment funds for the DREAMS Scholarship Program. The DREAMS Scholarship is designed to complement the HOPE Scholarship. While HOPE is merit-based and tuition-focused, DREAMS funds could help cover other essential college costs for undergraduate students who show financial need after other aid is applied.
At the University of Georgia, the proposal includes $9.5 million in new formula funding to provide startup support for the planned UGA School of Medicine, along with another $11.43 million for equipment and other one-time needs. The budget plan also calls for $5.6 million to design a UGA School of Nursing facility.
The governor’s recommendations also include $34.5 million for the next phase of UGA’s Science and Ag Hill modernization project, which focuses on renovating, upgrading, and expanding lab and learning spaces to support continued growth in STEM education and research. Additional funding would help with equipment in the former poultry building and renovations to the former Environmental Health Sciences building.
The plan also includes $40 million for major repair and rehabilitation funds on top of what’s already in the base budget, helping address critical maintenance needs across the university system.
UGA leaders thanked Governor Kemp for his support and said they plan to work with lawmakers during the legislative session as the Georgia General Assembly considers the final state budget.