Arrest Report - Monday - July 13, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, July 13, 2026:
Widespread Rain and Thunderstorms Expected Through Tuesday Before Typical Summer Pattern Returns
Residents across Chattooga County and northwest Georgia should prepare for a wet start to the week as a slow-moving weather system brings numerous showers and thunderstorms through Tuesday before conditions gradually return to a more typical summertime pattern later in the week.
Rain and thunderstorms are expected throughout the day Monday with a high near 82 degrees. The chance of rain is 80 percent, and some locations could receive between a quarter and one-half inch of rainfall, with locally higher amounts in heavier thunderstorms. Showers and storms will continue Monday night before gradually diminishing after midnight.
The unsettled weather is being driven by a weak upper-level low pressure system interacting with an unusually moist air mass. National Weather Service forecasters say the atmosphere contains moisture levels near the 90th percentile for mid-July, increasing the potential for heavy downpours. While the overall threat for severe weather is lower Monday because of extensive cloud cover, a few stronger storms could still produce isolated damaging wind gusts. Slow-moving storms may also lead to localized flooding in poor drainage areas.
Rain chances remain high on Tuesday, with showers and thunderstorms likely throughout the day and a high again near 82 degrees. The chance of precipitation increases to 90 percent before storms taper off Tuesday night.
By Wednesday, the weather pattern becomes more typical for July, with mainly afternoon and evening thunderstorms developing from daytime heating. High temperatures will climb into the mid-80s Wednesday before warming into the upper 80s Thursday and reaching the lower 90s by Friday and through the upcoming weekend.
Although afternoon storm chances will continue each day, coverage is expected to become more scattered later in the week, allowing temperatures to return to seasonal levels.
Chattooga County Coroner Warns Families About Funeral Home Impersonation Scam
The Chattooga County Coroner’s Office is warning residents about a scam targeting grieving families following the death of a loved one.
In a public alert, Coroner Jeremy A. McElhaney said scammers are posing as funeral home employees after monitoring online obituaries. The scammers then contact family members and demand immediate payment, falsely claiming to represent the funeral home handling funeral arrangements.
McElhaney urged anyone receiving such a call not to provide any personal or financial information. Instead, he advises families to hang up and contact their funeral home directly using a trusted phone number to verify whether the call is legitimate.
“I personally know the owner/operators of all three Chattooga County funeral homes and can assure you that is not the way they conduct business,” McElhaney said.
Residents are encouraged to share the warning to help prevent others from becoming victims of the scam.
Summerville Man Facing Animal Cruelty Charge Following Police Investigation
A Summerville man is expected to face an animal cruelty charge following an investigation into reports that a dog was being kept without adequate food, water or shelter during hot weather, according to the Summerville Police Department.
Police were dispatched at approximately 7:54 p.m. on July 1 after receiving a complaint about a dog allegedly being neglected. According to the incident report, the complainant identified the dog’s owner as Dakota Marks and reported seeing the dog tied to a tree with a ratchet strap.
When officers arrived, they found a large dog secured by a ratchet strap with one end attached to the animal and the other fastened to a tree. The report states the immediate area contained no shelter from the heat, no accessible food, and the only water container had a crack in the bottom, preventing it from serving as a reliable water source. Officers also noted the area was heavily littered with trash and that the restraint was not long enough for the dog to reach a nearby camper.
The responding officer photographed the scene and requested assistance from Animal Control. Attempts to locate Marks at the location were unsuccessful.
According to the report, a warrant was issued for Dakota Marks on a charge of Cruelty to Animals.
Magician Arthur Atsma Bringing Interactive Show to Chattooga County Library Tuesday
Families looking for free summertime entertainment are invited to the Chattooga County Library on Tuesday afternoon for an interactive magic show featuring nationally recognized entertainer Arthur Atsma.
The performance begins at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, at the Chattooga County Library, located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville. The event is presented by the Sara Hightower Regional Library System and is free and open to the public.
Atsma is known for combining comedy, audience participation and fast-paced illusions into a family-friendly performance designed to entertain children and adults alike. Organizers say the show features a variety of performance arts woven into an engaging magical adventure that has delighted audiences around the world.
The program is part of the library’s summer activities and provides local families with another opportunity to enjoy free educational and recreational programming during the school break.
Summerville Resident Reports Handgun Missing After Parking Vehicle
A Summerville man has reported a handgun missing after discovering it was no longer inside his vehicle, according to the Summerville Police Department.
Police say James Parker contacted dispatch on June 28, 2026, to report that his Taurus G3 9mm handgun was missing. Parker told officers he believes someone stole the firearm while his vehicle was parked on Hawkins Drive.
According to the incident report, Parker last saw the handgun at approximately 8:30 p.m. on June 27 and discovered it missing around 1:30 a.m. on June 28. The firearm was identified by its serial number in the report.
The incident remains under investigation by the Summerville Police Department, and no suspects have been identified.
Georgia State Election Board Approves New Rules Aimed at Increasing Election Transparency
The Georgia State Election Board has approved two new election rules supporters say are designed to increase transparency and public confidence in the state’s voting process ahead of the 2026 elections. The rules were adopted during the board’s July meeting following public comment and debate.
One of the new rules requires that vote tabulation and consolidation be conducted in public, allowing election observers to watch the process as precinct-level results are combined into countywide totals. State law already allows authorized poll watchers to observe many aspects of the election process, and supporters say the rule further reinforces public access.
The board also approved a rule giving State Election Board members access to the Secretary of State’s election operations center, often referred to as the “election night bunker,” during elections. Supporters say the change provides additional oversight, while critics have questioned whether the board has the legal authority to require such access.
The rule changes come as Georgia prepares for the 2026 election cycle and continue an ongoing discussion over election administration and transparency in the state.
Summerville City Council to Meet This Evening; Fair Donation, Building Regulations Among Agenda Items
The Summerville City Council will hold its regular monthly meeting this evening (Monday) at 5 p.m. at Summerville City Hall. The meeting agenda includes recognition of a retiring firefighter, infrastructure-related contract changes, building regulations, and a proposed contribution to the Chattooga County Fair.
Mayor Rickey Hughes is scheduled to recognize Firefighter Britt Evans on his retirement during the mayor’s comments. Council members will also consider approval of meeting minutes, change orders related to sanitary sewer improvements serving the industrial park and the city’s 2024 Community Development Block Grant project, updates to the city’s holiday policy, and a letter of support for the Propel Program.
Under new business, the council will discuss and consider reinstating portions of the city’s Code of Ordinances regarding buildings and building regulations. Members will also vote on a proposed $5,000 donation to the Chattooga County Fair, which is scheduled for August 27-30, 2026.
The meeting will conclude with public comments before adjournment. Citizens are welcome to attend.
You can see the complete agenda for this evening’s meeting below:
Habitat for Humanity – Coosa Valley Seeks Volunteers to Help Build Homes and Hope
Habitat for Humanity – Coosa Valley is seeking volunteers to support its mission of building homes and creating hope for families across Chattooga, Floyd and Polk counties.
Volunteers do not have to be experienced with construction to help. The organization offers several ways for community members to get involved.
Ground was broken in late May on Habitat’s 62nd home, which will be built for the Cornejo family. Executive Director Betsy Allgood encourages residents to watch for upcoming information about volunteer opportunities connected with the home build.
Volunteers are also needed to work concessions during Rome Emperors home games at AdventHealth Stadium. Habitat operates two large concession stands and the nacho stand, receiving 15 percent of the proceeds along with any tips donated by customers.
Habitat also welcomes volunteers, donations and shoppers at its ReStore near Central Plaza in Rome.
More information about volunteer opportunities with Habitat for Humanity – Coosa Valley is available at www.habitatcoosavalley.org.
Replica of Declaration of Independence Now on Display in Downtown Summerville
As the nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Chattooga County residents have a chance to view a full-sized replica of America’s founding document right in downtown Summerville.
Local resident Nell Farrar has placed the replica in the storefront window at 79 West Washington Street, in the building with the blue door located a couple of doors down from the TAG office and the Farrar & Corbin law office. The display will remain available for public viewing through Labor Day.
The replica is the same size as the original document, measuring 24½ inches by 29¾ inches. Farrar has also included a printed version of the text to help visitors read the original cursive writing.
The original Declaration of Independence is housed in the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom at the National Archives Museum in Washington, D.C. Farrar said after seeing the original document in person, she wanted to bring that experience home for local residents.
“I thought how many people from Chattooga County have never been to the National Monument,” Farrar said. “So, I wanted to share it with the people of Chattooga, the residents and visitors.”
Farrar also noted that Georgia was represented by three signers of the Declaration of Independence—Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, and George Walton.
She said that while historians have long debated aspects of the document, its message and the reasons for declaring independence continue to make it one of the nation’s most important historical documents.
“It is still a document to be read, shared, and studied,” Farrar said.
Sloppy Floyd State Park Hosting Cloud Spotters Program and Night Hike Saturday
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park is inviting outdoor enthusiasts to take part in two ranger-led programs on Saturday, July 18, offering opportunities to learn about the natural world during both the day and night.
The day begins with the Cloud Spotters program at 10 a.m., where participants will create a cloud spotter craft before hiking to the Lower Lake Dam to learn about different cloud formations and Earth’s weather systems. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket, sunglasses and plenty of water. The program costs $3 per person, and a $10 park pass is also required.
Later that evening at 8 p.m., the park will host a Cold-Blooded Critters Night Hike along the Upper Lake Trail. Rangers will introduce participants to reptiles, amphibians and other cold-blooded animals while discussing their habitats, diets and survival strategies. Participants should wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water. The night hike is also $3 per person, with a $10 park pass required.
Advance registration is required for both programs. To register or for more information, call the park office at 706-857-0826.
Arrest Report - Sunday - July 12, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, July 12, 2026:
Showers, Storms Continue Through Midweek Before Heat Returns
Rounds of showers and thunderstorms will continue across Chattooga County and northwest Georgia through at least Tuesday as a slow-moving weather system lingers over the region. While not everyone will see rain all day, numerous thunderstorms are expected to develop each afternoon and evening, bringing the potential for heavy downpours, frequent lightning, and gusty winds.
The National Weather Service says a few storms today and Monday could become strong, producing wind gusts between 50 and 60 miles per hour. An isolated severe storm cannot be ruled out, although the greater severe weather threat is expected to remain south and east of the WZQZ listening area. Locally heavy rainfall could also lead to isolated flooding in poor drainage areas.
Sunday will be mostly cloudy with a high near 86 degrees. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible throughout the day, with rain becoming more likely this evening before tapering overnight. Monday will be cooler, with a high around 82 degrees and widespread showers and thunderstorms expected during the afternoon and evening.
Rain chances remain elevated Tuesday with another round of showers and thunderstorms and highs in the lower 80s. Conditions begin to improve Wednesday as afternoon storm coverage becomes more isolated and temperatures climb back into the upper 80s.
By Thursday and Friday, a more typical summer pattern returns with partly sunny skies, scattered afternoon thunderstorms, and highs around 90 to 91 degrees. Saturday looks even hotter, with highs reaching the lower 90s and only isolated afternoon storms expected.
Residents should keep an eye on the forecast over the next couple of days, especially if outdoor plans are scheduled, and be prepared to move indoors quickly if thunderstorms develop.
Chattooga County Public Meeting Set to Review 2024 Audit and 2025 Budget Amendments
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen has scheduled a public meeting for Thursday, July 16, to review the county’s 2024 Audit Report and consider amendments to the 2025 county budget.
The meeting will begin at 10 a.m. in the Commissioner’s Conference Room at the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office, located at 10102 Commerce Street in Summerville.
According to the public meeting notice, the two matters listed for discussion are a review of the completed 2024 audit and consideration of changes to the county’s 2025 budget.
The meeting is open to the public, and residents are invited and encouraged to attend.
Meeting Details
Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Commissioner’s Conference Room, Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office, 10102 Commerce Street, Summerville
Georgia Man Arrested in Multi-Agency Dog Fighting Investigation; 23 Dogs Rescued
A Crawford County man is facing state and federal charges after a multi-agency investigation into alleged illegal dog fighting led to the rescue of 23 dogs and the seizure of firearms and suspected illegal drugs.
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper announced the arrest of Robert James Hester following a joint investigation by the Georgia Department of Agriculture Law Enforcement Division, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, and the Peach County SWAT Team. Authorities executed state and federal search warrants on June 24 at a property on Andrews Road in Knoxville, Georgia.
Investigators said they recovered 23 dogs believed to have been used for fighting, along with multiple firearms, suspected marijuana, and suspected methamphetamine. The dogs were removed from the property and placed into the custody of federal authorities while the investigation continues.
“The Georgia Department of Agriculture has zero tolerance for illegal dog fighting and the cruelty it inflicts on animals,” Commissioner Harper said in a statement. He praised the coordinated efforts of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, saying the operation not only rescued the animals but also uncovered firearms and suspected narcotics.
Hester has been charged under Georgia law with possession of firearms by a convicted felon, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of tools for the commission of a crime, and possession of methamphetamine. In addition to the state charges, officials said he also faces federal charges related to alleged illegal dog fighting and firearms violations. He remains in the Crawford County Jail without bond.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing, and additional information could be released as the case proceeds through the court system. As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and Hester is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Walker County Approves Temporary Moratorium on New Data Centers
The Walker County Board of Commissioners has approved a temporary moratorium on new data center development, giving county officials time to study the issue and determine whether additional local regulations are needed before such facilities are considered.
Commissioners voted during their July 9 monthly meeting to adopt a resolution establishing the temporary pause on new data center projects. Prior to the meeting, county officials indicated the proposal called for a six-month moratorium while staff evaluates potential impacts and considers whether updates to the county’s development regulations are warranted.
The temporary moratorium will prevent the acceptance and approval of new data center applications during the review period. County leaders have not announced any specific data center project proposed for Walker County but said the action is intended to allow time for research and policy development before future applications are considered.
Large-scale data centers have become the focus of increasing debate across Georgia and the nation because of their substantial electricity demands, water usage for cooling at some facilities, infrastructure requirements, and land-use impacts. Communities have also weighed the economic benefits of new investment and tax revenue against concerns about long-term effects on utilities, natural resources, and neighboring properties.
Walker County’s action follows similar temporary moratoriums adopted or proposed by other local governments as officials work to establish zoning standards and development guidelines before allowing new data center construction.
Hays State Prison Warden Joshua Jones Dies at 39
The Georgia Department of Corrections and communities across Northwest Georgia are mourning the unexpected death of Hays State Prison Warden Joshua Jones, who passed away on July 4, 2026, at the age of 39.
Jones had served as warden of Hays State Prison in Chattooga County since July 2023. He was appointed to the position after Georgia Department of Corrections Commissioner Tyrone Oliver reassigned then-Warden Shawn Emmons to serve as warden at Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison.
Jones began his career with the Georgia Department of Corrections in 2007 as a Correctional Officer at Walker State Prison. During his nearly two decades of service, he advanced through the ranks as Sergeant, Tier II Lieutenant, Tier II Unit Manager, Deputy Warden of Security, and ultimately Warden of Hays State Prison.
Family members said Jones approached his career in corrections with a deep sense of responsibility, placing great importance on protecting the staff who served alongside him, the surrounding community, and the individuals entrusted to his care. They described him as a leader who served with integrity, conviction, and a desire to leave every assignment better than he found it.
Known for his quick wit and infectious sense of humor, Jones built lasting relationships with coworkers, friends, and those he mentored. Outside of his professional life, he enjoyed fishing, traveling, great food, bourbon, poker, and cheering for the Tennessee Volunteers. One of his greatest passions was coaching youth football, where he invested countless hours helping young athletes build confidence, teamwork, and character while spending time with his own children.
Above all else, family members said Jones was devoted to his wife, Haley, and their children, Jack, Ava, and Piper. They said he worked to instill values of hard work, integrity, respect, responsibility, and perseverance in his children, considering that one of his life’s greatest responsibilities.
Jones is survived by his wife, Haley; children Jack, Ava, and Piper; his mother, Josie Nichols (William Layfield); his father, Jeff (Rhonda) Langley; grandparents Janet Goins, Virginia Langley, and Ron and Glenda Turner; his sister Jessica (Emily) Cartwright; siblings Ethan and Jessica Tripp; and numerous extended family members, friends, and colleagues throughout the Georgia Department of Corrections.
He was preceded in death by grandparents John Jones, Jr. Langley, and great-grandparents William and Josephine Jones and Lelion and Frances Lizana.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete.
July Declared Georgia Grown Watermelon Month as State Celebrates Top National Crop
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper has officially proclaimed July 2026 as Georgia Grown Watermelon Month, recognizing one of the state’s most recognizable crops and the farmers who produce it.
The announcement highlights Georgia’s position as the nation’s leading watermelon-producing state, with growers harvesting more than 200 million pounds of watermelons each year. The crop is a key part of Georgia’s agriculture industry, which contributes more than $100 billion annually to the state’s economy.
“Georgia’s watermelon growers are among the hardest-working farmers in the nation,” Harper said in announcing the proclamation. He encouraged consumers to support local agriculture by purchasing Georgia Grown watermelons throughout the summer season.
Watermelons are typically harvested across Georgia from June through August, making July one of the peak months for fresh, locally grown fruit. Georgia’s warm climate and fertile soils provide ideal growing conditions, helping the state consistently rank first in national watermelon production.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture says buying Georgia Grown products supports farm families, strengthens local communities, and helps sustain one of the state’s largest industries. Consumers can identify locally grown produce by looking for the Georgia Grown logo at grocery stores, farmers markets, and roadside stands.
Commissioner Harper said the month-long recognition celebrates both the quality of Georgia-grown watermelons and the important role agriculture continues to play in the state’s economy.
Georgia PSC Launches Investigation Into Whether Data Centers Are Shifting Power Costs to Other Customers
The Georgia Public Service Commission has voted to move forward with an investigation into whether Georgia Power’s largest electricity customers—including data centers—are paying their fair share of fuel costs or shifting those expenses onto residential and small business customers.
Commissioners approved opening the investigation Tuesday after concerns were raised about Georgia Power’s Real Time Pricing (RTP) rate structure, which is used almost exclusively by the utility’s largest industrial customers, including many data centers. The inquiry will examine whether customers on the RTP rate contribute appropriately to the fuel costs associated with generating electricity.
The investigation stems from testimony during recent fuel cost hearings, where Public Service Commission staff argued the current pricing system may leave households and small businesses paying a larger share of fuel-related expenses as electricity demand grows. Staff estimates suggested the current structure could increase fuel costs for residential customers by as much as 5% to 11% in coming years if changes are not made.
Georgia has experienced explosive growth in data center construction, fueled largely by artificial intelligence and cloud computing. To meet that demand, Georgia Power has received approval to significantly expand its electric generating capacity over the coming years. While the utility has maintained that large customers pay the full cost of the infrastructure built to serve them, critics argue the issue of ongoing fuel costs deserves closer scrutiny.
Environmental organizations and consumer advocates welcomed the commission’s decision, saying Georgians deserve greater transparency about who is paying for the state’s rapidly growing electricity demand.
The Public Service Commission emphasized that the investigation is intended to determine whether the current rate design remains fair and whether changes are needed to ensure fuel costs are allocated appropriately among all customer classes. The commission is expected to hold additional hearings and gather evidence before considering any changes to Georgia Power’s pricing policies.
Summerville City Council to Consider Building Code Reinstatement, Fair Donation at Monday Meeting
The Summerville City Council will meet Monday evening with several items on the agenda, including a proposal to reinstate portions of the city’s building regulations and a request to support the Chattooga County Fair.
The council’s regular meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday, July 13, at Summerville City Hall.
Among the new business items, council members will discuss and consider reinstating the city’s Code of Ordinances related to buildings and building regulations. The agenda does not specify what changes would accompany the reinstatement.
Council members will also consider approving a $5,000 donation to the Chattooga County Fair, which is scheduled for August 27-30, 2026.
The consent agenda includes approval of minutes from three previous meetings, change orders for sanitary sewer improvements serving the Industrial Park and the 2024 Community Development Block Grant project, an update to the city’s holiday policy, and authorization for Mayor Rickey Hughes to sign a letter of support for the Propel Program.
The meeting will also feature the recognition of Firefighter Britt Evans on his retirement, followed by financial updates from City Manager Jason Winters. The meeting will conclude with an opportunity for public comments before adjournment.