Arrest Report - Thursday - April 23, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, April 23, 2026:
Hazy Skies And Fire Danger Raise Concerns Across Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
A stretch of hazy, dry, and unseasonably warm weather is gripping Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia, as wildfire smoke drifting north from South Georgia and Florida continues to impact air quality and visibility across the region.
Through Friday, skies will remain mostly clear, but a noticeable haze will hang in the air at times, giving the sun a muted appearance and reducing visibility, especially during the morning and evening hours. While the smoke is not expected to reach hazardous levels for most residents, those with respiratory sensitivities may notice minor irritation and should take precautions when spending extended time outdoors.
In addition to the smoky conditions, the region is facing heightened fire danger due to a combination of warm temperatures, low humidity, and dry ground conditions. Afternoon highs are reaching the mid to upper 80s—well above average for late April—while humidity levels are dropping into the 20 to 30 percent range during peak heating hours. These factors create an environment where fires can start easily and spread quickly.
A Fire Danger Statement remains in effect during the afternoon and early evening hours, and officials warn that similar alerts may continue into Friday. Local emergency management agencies and fire departments are urging residents to avoid outdoor burning, properly dispose of cigarettes, and use extreme caution with any activity that could spark a fire. Even small flames can quickly get out of control under these conditions.
Despite the dry start to the period, a significant pattern change is on the horizon. A cold front is expected to approach Northwest Georgia late Friday night, bringing the first chances of rain to the area in several days. Showers will begin to move into the far northwest corner of the state overnight and spread across Chattooga County and surrounding communities through Saturday.
Scattered thunderstorms are also expected to develop along and ahead of the front. While the overall severe weather threat currently appears limited, a few stronger storms cannot be ruled out. These could produce gusty winds, brief heavy rainfall, and frequent lightning. Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware, especially if they have outdoor plans this weekend.
By Saturday afternoon, rain coverage may become more scattered as the system weakens, but clouds and cooler temperatures will provide some relief from the recent heat. Highs are expected to drop back into the 70s across Northwest Georgia, offering a more seasonal feel.
Looking ahead to Sunday, the front is expected to stall to the south, allowing warmer temperatures to return to the region, with highs climbing back into the mid to upper 80s. Rain chances will decrease for much of North Georgia, though a few isolated showers may linger.
The weather pattern becomes more active again early next week. Another system is expected to develop and move toward the Southeast, bringing a renewed chance of widespread showers and thunderstorms late Monday into Tuesday. Unlike the weekend system, this one may have a better setup for stronger storms, and forecasters say it will be important to monitor for any potential severe weather threats as the system approaches.
Rainfall totals from Friday night through early next week could range from around 1.5 to 2.5 inches across North Georgia, with locally higher amounts possible in areas that see repeated storms. This rainfall could help reduce fire danger concerns but may also lead to brief periods of heavy rain and localized runoff issues.
For now, residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are advised to remain cautious during the ongoing dry conditions, limit outdoor burning, and stay tuned for updates as changing weather conditions move into the area over the coming days.
USDA Declares Drought Disaster, Includes Chattooga County In Assistance Area
Farmers in Chattooga County and across Northwest Georgia may soon see relief after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) designated 126 Georgia counties as natural disaster areas due to ongoing drought conditions.
The designation, announced this week, stems from severe to exceptional drought conditions that began December 15, 2025, and persisted through the growing season. While Chattooga County is not listed as a primary disaster county, it has been included as a contiguous county, making local producers eligible for federal assistance.
Through this designation, the USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) can offer emergency loans to farmers and agricultural producers impacted by the drought. These loans are designed to help cover a range of recovery needs, including replacing livestock or equipment, reorganizing farming operations, and refinancing certain debts.
Officials say loan applications will be evaluated based on the extent of production losses, available collateral, and the producer’s ability to repay. The application deadline for assistance is set for December 10, 2026.
The drought classification is based on data from the U.S. Drought Monitor, which indicates areas experienced either severe drought for at least eight consecutive weeks or extreme to exceptional drought conditions during the growing season.
The disaster designation impacts multiple states across the Southeast, including Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, and the Carolinas.
Local farmers in Chattooga County are encouraged to contact their nearest USDA Farm Service Agency office for more information on eligibility and the application process.
Domestic Dispute Reported In Summerville Under Investigation
A domestic dispute reported in Summerville earlier this month remains under investigation by local authorities.
According to an incident report, officers responded to Chattooga ER on April 12 after a woman arrived with visible injuries, including a swollen left eye and swelling to her upper lip. Investigators said the woman reported the confrontation happened earlier that day at a residence on Allred Street.
In the report, the woman told officers she was struck in the face during an argument and said the accused was Rod Madden. She also reported pain, dizziness, and continued facial swelling following the incident.
Authorities noted that a witness at the home said she was present during the disturbance but did not actually see the physical altercation. The witness told officers she heard something happen inside the residence, but did not observe Madden leaving the home.
Investigators with the Summerville Police Department later spoke with Madden at the hospital while following up on the case. According to the report, he denied assaulting the woman and claimed he had acted in self-defense. Officers also documented an injury on Madden’s arm and noted it appeared more consistent with a scratch than a bite mark.
The report states the case was left pending further investigation and additional suspect contact.
GNTC Names Patty Hart Vice President of Economic Development
Georgia Northwestern Technical College has named Patty Hart as its new vice president of Economic Development, placing a longtime leader in a key role supporting workforce training and business growth across northwest Georgia.
Hart was appointed April 16 and brings more than 25 years of experience with GNTC. She has served as director of Economic Development since 2009 and previously worked as the college’s Economic Development programs instructor and Work Ready coordinator from 2000 until 2009.
GNTC President Dr. Heidi Popham said Hart has shown a strong commitment to the college’s mission and understands the importance of connecting education and training with the workforce needs of the region. College leaders say her new role will help expand opportunities, support employers and drive continued growth across northwest Georgia.
As vice president of Economic Development, Hart will oversee initiatives sponsored by the Technical College System of Georgia aimed at strengthening the regional economy. Her responsibilities will include supporting community economic development efforts, developing local workforce programs, expanding customized employee training and continuing education offerings, and helping recruit new industries while supporting the expansion of existing businesses across GNTC’s nine-county service area.
Hart will also serve as a local point of contact for Georgia Quick Start and will work closely with chambers of commerce, business leaders, local governments and community development organizations throughout the region.
Dr. Elizabeth Anderson, GNTC executive vice president and chief academic officer, said Hart’s years of experience in economic development have prepared her well for the position and will allow her to continue building partnerships that support both student success and workforce development.
Hart said she is honored to step into the new role and looks forward to strengthening partnerships with local industry, expanding customized training, enhancing continuing education opportunities and developing innovative programs that meet the changing needs of employers across the region.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Management from the University of West Georgia and has also completed graduate-level Computer Science coursework at City University in Bellevue, Washington.
Hart’s professional credentials include certification as an ACT-Authorized WorkKeys Job Profiler, Certified Manufacturing Specialist Trainer, Microsoft Office Specialist, OSHA Outreach Trainer, and State of Georgia Manufacturing Specialist and Customer Service Trainer.
In addition to her work at GNTC, Hart served 12 years on the Walker County Board of Education. She is also active in several professional organizations, including the Georgia Continuing Education Association, where she serves as vice president of Marketing, and the Northwest Georgia Society for Human Resource Management, where she is Workforce Readiness director.
Among her honors, Hart was named Georgia’s Work Ready Administrator of the Year in 2009. She is also a graduate of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development and multiple regional leadership programs.
“Battle at the Bighorn” Tournament Set for Summerville Rec Center
A big weekend of youth baseball is coming to Chattooga County as the “Battle at the Bighorn” All-Star Rec Tournament takes place May 29th and 30th at the Summerville Recreation Center.
The event, formerly known as “Rumble by the River,” will feature recreation league teams only, with no select teams allowed. Age divisions include 6U co-ed along with 8U, 10U, and 12U boys baseball.
Games will be played at the Summerville Rec Center on Highway 100, with a three-game guarantee for participating teams. The entry fee is set at $75 per team, and GRPA rules will apply throughout the tournament.
Organizers say the two-day event will crown one champion, bringing together young athletes from across Chattooga County and northwest Georgia for a competitive and family-friendly weekend.
For more information or to register, teams can contact Lauren Lively at 706-936-2351.
Chattooga County Schools Announce Multiple Job Openings Across District
The Chattooga County Board of Education is now hiring for several positions across the school system, with opportunities available for bus drivers, a school receptionist, and custodial staff.
District officials say both full-time and substitute bus driver positions are open, with pay based on experience and reaching up to $23.42 per hour. Substitute drivers start at $13.50 per hour. Applicants must hold a valid CDL with required endorsements, though training is available.
An immediate opening is also available for a full-time receptionist at Leroy Massey Elementary School. The position includes benefits and requires strong organizational, communication, and clerical skills, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office programs.
In addition, the school system is seeking full-time and part-time custodians for multiple locations. Duties include maintaining and cleaning school facilities and grounds.
Applications can be picked up at the Superintendent’s Office or completed online through the Chattooga County Schools website under Human Resources. Officials say interviews for the receptionist position will begin immediately and continue until the role is filled.
All applications should be submitted to the Chattooga County Board of Education’s HR Director at the district office in Summerville.
The Chattooga County Board of Education is an equal opportunity employer.
New Kennel Walls Under Construction At Chattooga County Animal Shelter
Major improvements are now underway at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, where construction has officially begun on new solid block walls inside the kennel area.
According to Friends of the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, the project is designed to create a cleaner, calmer, and healthier environment for the animals in the shelter’s care. The new walls will replace the previous setup of chain-link fencing with attached Hardie board, which reportedly had to be replaced often.
Supporters say Best Friends Animal Society recently recommended the upgrade, noting that solid walls can help reduce stress among animals while also limiting the spread of viruses and disease.
During construction, the shelter will be operating with reduced capacity, and day-to-day operations may be affected due to limited staffing. Anyone needing assistance is asked to leave a message if they are unable to reach someone immediately.
The project is being made possible through a community-wide effort. Bryant and Sons donated a large portion of the materials, while Steve and Starr McGill also contributed blocks for the work. Chattooga County Schools joined the effort as well, providing labor through the CTAE Construction pathway led by Mr. Benji Price and his team. Public Works also helped by demolishing the current setup to make way for the upgrade.
Organizers say Best Friends Animal Society covered the remaining material costs not funded through the county budget, helping move the project across the finish line.
Shelter supporters say the improvements will make a lasting difference for the animals and reflect what can happen when the community comes together.
Summerville Man Faces Meth, Traffic Charges After Highway 27 Traffic Stop
A local man is facing drug and traffic charges following a late-night traffic stop in Chattooga County, according to an arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies identified the suspect as Shannon Matthew Bennett, 47.
According to the report, the arrest began at about 9:23 p.m. on April 13 when a deputy on routine patrol spotted a dark-colored Ram 1500 traveling north on Highway 27 toward Trion. The deputy reported having prior knowledge that the tag displayed on the truck was not registered to that vehicle and that Bennett’s driver’s license was suspended.
The traffic stop was conducted at Selman Drive at Highway 27.
Authorities said Bennett was identified as the driver and acknowledged that he knew his license was suspended. The report states Bennett then produced what deputies described as the correct license plate for the truck, but officers found that registration was expired and that there was no valid insurance on the vehicle. After Bennett was unable to provide proof of insurance, deputies advised him the truck would be towed and inventoried.
During that process, deputies reported that Bennett became visibly agitated and nervous. The report says Bennett asked to retrieve medicine from his vehicle, but while near the driver’s side area and center console cupholder, deputies became suspicious that he may have removed or concealed something.
According to the report, a deputy then observed a clear plastic bag containing a white crystal-like substance under a cup. The substance was suspected to be methamphetamine. Investigators said Bennett was then placed in handcuffs.
The report also states Bennett later told deputies there was more suspected methamphetamine inside the vehicle and directed them to a pair of pants on the front passenger seat, where another suspected quantity was allegedly found in a pocket.
Bennett was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without further incident.
According to the arrest report, Bennett was charged with:
- Possession of methamphetamine
- Driving on a suspended license
- Removing or affixing a tag for the purpose of concealing identity
- Expired registration
- No insurance
As with all criminal cases, these are allegations contained in an arrest report, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Salvation Army of Rome Seeks Donations, Volunteers This Spring
The Salvation Army of Rome is encouraging continued community support this spring as the organization works year-round to provide services to residents in both Floyd and Chattooga counties.
Major Hank Harwell, Corps Officer, says while the nonprofit receives strong support during the holiday season, donations are needed throughout the year to sustain ongoing programs and assistance efforts.
Those wishing to contribute can donate online at www.salvationarmyrome.org, or mail or deliver donations to the Salvation Army office located at 317 East 1st Avenue in Rome.
In addition to monetary donations, the organization is also seeking gently used items for the Salvation Army Rome Family Store. Volunteers are also needed to help support operations and outreach efforts.
The Salvation Army of Rome serves individuals and families across Floyd and Chattooga counties, providing vital assistance to those in need.
Local donors and volunteers will be recognized during National Salvation Army Week, set for May 11–17, with an Appreciation Luncheon scheduled for May 12 at the Rome Civic Center.
For more information, call 706-291-4745.
Snake Sightings Increase Across Northwest Georgia As Warmer Weather Arrives
As spring temperatures rise across Chattooga County and northwest Georgia, wildlife officials say residents can expect to see more snakes becoming active in yards, gardens, and neighborhoods.
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, most of the snakes people encounter this time of year are harmless. Out of 47 species native to Georgia, only seven are venomous — and experts say encounters with dangerous species are relatively uncommon.
State herpetologist Daniel Sollenberger says many calls this time of year revolve around identifying snakes and determining whether they pose a threat. In most cases, the answer is no.
Officials stress that snakes play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling rodents, insects, and other pests. Many nonvenomous species are also protected by state law.
Residents are advised to never try to handle a snake and to keep a safe distance if one is spotted. If a venomous snake is clearly identified in an area where it could pose a danger, wildlife removal professionals should be contacted.
Experts also note that some harmless snakes can mimic the appearance of venomous ones, which can lead to confusion. The safest approach is to treat any unidentified snake with caution.
To reduce the chances of snakes around homes, officials recommend removing brush piles, logs, and other debris that may attract prey animals.
With warmer days ahead, wildlife experts say the best approach is simple: give snakes space and allow them to move along on their own.
WZQZ Pet Of The Week: Meet Ember
This week’s WZQZ Pet of the Week is Ember, a sweet and playful dog waiting for her forever home at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter.
Ember is a female dog who is good with other dogs, loves toys, and has a friendly personality that would make her a great addition to many homes. Shelter staff describe her as sweet and playful, making her a wonderful option for anyone looking for a fun-loving companion.
Ember’s adoption fee is $25.
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is located at 464 Red Oak Drive in Summerville. The shelter is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Wednesdays by appointment.
For more information about adopting Ember, call 706-857-0679.
Arrest Report - Wednesday - April 22, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, April 22, 2026:
Dry, Warm Weather Raises Fire Concerns Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia
Chattooga County and the rest of northwest Georgia are facing several more days of warm, dry weather, with fire danger concerns expected to continue through the end of the workweek.
Forecasters say dry conditions and very low humidity will combine with already dry vegetation to create an elevated risk for fires each afternoon and early evening. While winds are expected to remain fairly light, officials warn that outdoor burning could still become dangerous quickly.
Afternoon temperatures are expected to climb into the mid to upper 80s through Friday and into early next week, running well above normal for late April. Morning lows will generally fall into the 50s before another round of unseasonably warm afternoons.
Rain and thunderstorm chances are expected to return to far northwest Georgia late Friday night and spread across the region on Saturday as a cold front approaches. A few storms could become strong, with gusty winds and frequent lightning possible, though widespread severe weather is not expected at this time.
A wetter and more unsettled pattern is expected to continue from Sunday into early next week, with additional rounds of showers and thunderstorms possible. Forecasters say another stronger system could bring more widespread rain and storms by late Monday into Tuesday, and that system will need to be watched for possible severe weather potential.
Rainfall totals through early next week could be highest in far northwest Georgia, where some areas may pick up around 2 inches of rain, with locally higher amounts possible in stronger storms.
Advance Voting Set To Begin For May 19 Election In Chattooga County
Advance voting for the May 19, 2026 General Primary and Nonpartisan General Election is set to begin soon in Chattooga County, with important dates and details now finalized for local voters.
Early voting will run from April 27 through May 15 at the Chattooga County Registrars Office, located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville. Poll hours will be 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.
Officials remind voters that a government-issued photo ID is required to cast a ballot. The voter registration deadline for this election is April 20, 2026.
When checking in to vote, residents will be asked to choose between a Democratic, Republican, or Nonpartisan ballot. Election officials encourage voters to review sample ballots ahead of time to better understand their choices. Sample ballots are available at the Registrars Office and online through the Georgia Secretary of State’s My Voter Page.
Additionally, officials note that following the April 7 Special Runoff, incumbency status was added to two candidates’ names in official records. However, that designation will not appear on printed ballots due to timing after ballots were finalized.
Voters are encouraged to plan ahead and take advantage of early voting opportunities.
Cancer Navigators’ Daisy Drop Set For April 26 In Rome
Cancer Navigators will hold its annual Daisy Drop on Sunday, April 26, at 3 p.m., giving the community a chance to honor loved ones affected by cancer during a special afternoon in downtown Rome.
Participants will gather at the Courtyard by Marriott before walking to the Chief John Ross Pedestrian Bridge, led by cancer fighter Brad Robinson. Along the way, Cancer Navigators staff will hand out complimentary daisies for attendees to drop into the river in tribute to those touched by cancer.
Organizers say the Daisy Drop and reception are free and open to the community, and the event will take place rain or shine.
“The Daisy Drop started over a decade ago and has become a Cancer Navigators tradition and an important way for us to honor our patients and all who have been impacted by cancer,” said Jonna Duke, Cancer Navigators Office and Outreach Coordinator. “We are grateful for our sponsors who enable us to continue to host this special event.”
This year’s Daisy Drop sponsors include Atrium Health Floyd + Harbin Clinic, Addis Family Farm, Hardy Realty, MSP Attorneys, First National Community Bank, Jim’s Tire & Service Center, Mel & Mimi, Metra Profile, Mount Vernon Mills, Purple Tiger Energy, Summerville Pentecostal Worship Center, The UPS Store, Try-Con Tufters, Van Dyke Wholesale Florist, and Vitality Labs.
Established in 2006, Cancer Navigators serves people in Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama who are affected by cancer. The organization helps individuals and families better understand diagnoses and care while connecting them with free support services, including counseling, nutrition assistance, transportation help, medical supplies, wigs, hats, scarves, stress management, and caregiver support.
For more information about the Daisy Drop or Cancer Navigators, call (706) 509-5040 or email jduke@cancernavigatorsga.org.
Free Tree Giveaway Announced By North Georgia EMC
North Georgia EMC is once again helping members go green with its annual tree giveaway.
The utility will give away up to 200 free trees on Thursday, May 14 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. as part of its Energy Saving Tree Program.
Trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of one tree per member. Participants must bring a copy of their NGEMC power bill to claim a tree.
Pickup locations include NGEMC offices in Calhoun, Dalton, and Fort Oglethorpe.
Available tree varieties may include Bur Oak, Red Sunset Maple, White Fringe Tree, Chickasaw Plum, and Highbush Blueberry, while supplies last.
The program is designed to help homeowners plant trees in the right locations to reduce energy costs by providing shade and lowering cooling needs during the summer months.
The giveaway is open to NGEMC members only.
Savvy Senior Event Coming To Rome Focuses On Financial Wellness And Fraud Prevention
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is inviting Northwest Georgia residents to attend an upcoming “Savvy Senior” event designed to help individuals strengthen their financial future and guard against fraud.
The free event, titled “Savvy Senior: Empower Your Financial Wellness Journey,” will be held May 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Forum Riverwalk Ballroom in Rome. The program is open to seniors, families, and caregivers across the region.
Hosted in partnership with Interim Healthcare of Northwest Georgia and the Senior Medicare Patrol, the event will feature expert-led panel discussions focused on retirement planning and fraud awareness. Attendees will gain practical tools and insights aimed at improving financial security and building confidence when managing long-term financial decisions.
“Financial security and fraud prevention are essential for protecting the hard-earned savings of Georgia’s seniors,” Raffensperger said. “Through our Savvy Senior program, we are dedicated to providing individuals, families, and caregivers with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions.”
The event will be moderated by veteran journalist Donna Lowry and will include two panel discussions. The financial wellness panel will feature certified financial planners and wealth management professionals, while the fraud awareness panel will include experts from state agencies and consumer protection divisions.
Organizers say the event is strictly educational, with no products or services being sold. A complimentary continental breakfast will be provided for those who register in advance.
Savvy Senior is part of a statewide initiative aimed at improving financial literacy and helping Georgians better understand money management, investment strategies, and fraud prevention.
Registration is free, and all Georgians are encouraged to attend.
Chattooga County EMA/E-911 Hiring Full-Time Communications Officers
Chattooga County EMA/E-911 is now accepting applications for full-time Communications Officers, offering an opportunity to serve on the front lines of public safety.
The position features a split shift schedule, typically from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m., with a rotating schedule of two days on and two days off, along with every other weekend consisting of three days on and three days off. Officials note that flexibility is required, as employees may be asked to cover additional shifts.
Starting pay is $16 per hour, with scheduled raises, including increases after the first six weeks, again after another six weeks, and an additional raise around the one-year mark.
Applicants must obtain state certification to maintain employment. Initial training is provided in-house, followed by a required one-week POST Communications Officer course at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth, which includes an on-campus stay.
Those interested can apply by calling 706-857-3400, selecting option 1 or 2.
Officials say the role is critical in helping guide emergency response efforts, serving as a calm and steady voice for those in need.
Trion High Softball To Host Youth Camp In June
Young athletes in Chattooga County will have the opportunity to sharpen their softball skills this summer as Trion High School hosts its annual youth softball camp.
The camp is scheduled for June 1 and 2 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the J.W. Greenwood Athletic Complex at the Trion High School softball field. It is open to children ages 5 through 12.
Campers will receive instruction in fundamental skills including hitting, throwing, pitching, fielding, and baserunning. The cost is $30 per participant, which includes a camp T-shirt.
Participants are asked to bring a water bottle, bat, and glove. Organizers also note that the camp will be held rain or shine.
Registration is open now, and those who sign up by May 8 are guaranteed to receive a T-shirt.