Arrest Report - Saturday - April 11, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, April 11, 2026:
High Fire Danger, Hot Temperatures Expected Across North Georgia
Dry and increasingly hot conditions are expected to continue across North Georgia through the weekend and into next week, raising concerns about wildfire risk and worsening drought conditions.
Forecasters say high fire danger will remain in place, especially through the weekend, as humidity levels drop and dry vegetation becomes more susceptible to burning. A Fire Danger Statement has already been issued for parts of north and central Georgia, with relative humidity values falling below 25 percent in some areas.
Despite a cold front moving through the Tennessee Valley, no rain is expected. Instead, the system will weaken before reaching Georgia, leaving behind only some cloud cover and shifting winds.
Temperatures are also on the rise, with highs climbing into the mid to upper 80s this weekend and potentially reaching the upper 80s to low 90s by next week. That puts temperatures 15 to 20 degrees above normal for this time of year and could approach record highs by the end of the week.
Rain chances remain extremely low over the next 5 to 7 days, with forecasters giving less than a 10 percent chance of precipitation. As a result, drought conditions are expected to worsen, and fire danger will remain a primary concern.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and use caution with anything that could spark a fire, as conditions will remain favorable for rapid fire spread.
Summerville Man Arrested After Alleged Lewd Acts Observed In Dalton
A Summerville man has been arrested following an incident in Dalton where police say he was observed performing lewd acts inside his vehicle.
According to the Dalton Police Department, 21-year-old Nathaniel Willingham was arrested after the incident on April 7.
Investigators say a woman reported she was jogging along Walnut Avenue when she noticed a man, later identified as Willingham, watching her from a parked vehicle and appearing to take photos or video with his phone.
The victim told police she continued her run but later saw the same man again along Tibbs Road, where she said the behavior continued.
Authorities say when the woman confronted him, she observed Willingham performing a lewd act inside the vehicle.
Willingham was taken into custody following the incident. Additional details on charges have not been released at this time.
WZQZ News will continue to follow this story as more information becomes available.
Chattooga Chamber To Host Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon April 22
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce will host a special Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon on April 22 to honor the hard work and dedication of administrative professionals across the community.
The event will recognize secretaries, administrative assistants, executive assistants, receptionists, client services representatives, and others who play a vital role in local businesses and organizations.
During the luncheon, the Chamber will also present the Administrative Professional of the Year Award.
The event will take place from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at the Hurley Community Development Center in Summerville. Attendees will enjoy a catered lunch, gifts, and door prize drawings. Reservations are required.
WZQZ News will continue to highlight local events happening throughout Chattooga County.
Ga DNR Urges Residents To Leave Wildlife In The Wild
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is reminding residents across Northwest Georgia to leave wildlife where they are found, especially during the spring season when young animals are more visible.
Wildlife officials say while it may appear that animals like fawns, birds, or rabbits have been abandoned, that is often not the case. In many situations, the parent is nearby but staying away to avoid attracting predators.
DNR stresses that removing wildlife from its natural environment can actually harm the animal. Experts say taking animals into human care often prevents them from developing the skills needed to survive in the wild.
Residents are advised to leave animals undisturbed for at least 24 hours. If there is still concern after that time, contacting a licensed wildlife professional is recommended.
Officials also note that caring for wildlife without proper training or permits is not only difficult, but in many cases illegal in Georgia.
The message from DNR is simple: if you care about wildlife, leave it where it belongs.
WZQZ News will continue to bring you updates from across the region.
Mailbox Removed During Demolition Prompts Police Report In Summerville
Summerville Police responded to a complaint on April 8th regarding a missing mailbox at a property on Hinton Street.
According to the report, the complainant told officers that the mailbox had been removed around March 30th by a contractor working with the Georgia Department of Transportation. The resident also reported that some mail was missing.
The complainant stated he lives in a residence behind the former 180 Hinton Street location and had been sharing the mailbox with that property. He said the home at that address was recently purchased and demolished, and during that process, both the mailbox and the water line to his residence were affected.
The resident told officers he has attempted to contact GDOT about the situation but has not received a response. He requested a report be filed to document the incident.
Big Money And Endorsements Pour Into Georgia Races Ahead Of Primary
With Georgia’s primary election approaching, campaigns across the state are ramping up efforts as major endorsements and large amounts of campaign money begin to shape key races.
The May primary is expected to be highly competitive, with statewide contests—including the race for governor—drawing national attention.
On the Republican side, candidates are locked in an expensive battle fueled by large donations and personal wealth. Some candidates are even using their own fortunes to fund campaigns, adding to what analysts describe as a growing financial arms race.
Endorsements are also playing a major role, with high-profile political figures backing candidates in hopes of influencing primary voters. In particular, support from national figures like former President Donald Trump is seen as a significant boost in Republican primaries.
Meanwhile, Democrats and progressive groups are lining up endorsements of their own, focusing on key legislative and statewide races as they try to build momentum heading into the election.
With early voting nearing and campaign ads expected to increase, voters across Georgia—including here in Northwest Georgia—can expect to see and hear much more from candidates in the weeks ahead.
Chattooga County Health Fair Set For Next Saturday
Community members are encouraged to make plans now to attend the 2nd Annual Chattooga County Health Fair, coming up one week from today on Saturday, April 18.
The free event will be held from 9 AM until 1 PM at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center and will focus on health, prevention, and connecting residents with valuable local resources.
Organizers say the event will feature a wide range of free screenings and services, including cholesterol and glucose checks, blood pressure and BMI screenings, HIV testing, dental screenings, prostate and colorectal cancer screenings, and hands-on CPR education.
Attendees will also be able to take part in free Narcan training and a free food distribution during the event.
Mammograms will be available by appointment only. To schedule, call 706-509-6840, Option 1. Organizers say participants must be 40 or older and uninsured to qualify.
In addition to screenings, those attending will have the opportunity to connect with local healthcare providers and organizations, learn more about preventive care and available services, visit educational vendor booths, and register for door prizes.
Officials are encouraging the public to help spread the word so more families across Chattooga County can take advantage of the free health resources available.
Woman Arrested For Criminal Trespass At Menlo Handy Mart
A Chattooga County woman was arrested following a trespassing incident at the Menlo Handy Mart on Highway 48.
According to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the convenience store on April 3 after reports of a female subject on the property who had previously been warned not to return.
The suspect was identified as Kimberly Joyce Basham. Authorities say Basham had been trespassed from the business in the past but returned again, prompting the call to law enforcement.
Deputies made contact with Basham at the scene and took her into custody without incident. She was transported to the Chattooga County Jail and charged with criminal trespass.
Arrest Report - Friday - April 10, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, April 10, 2026:
High Fire Danger Continues Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia Through Weekend
Residents across Chattooga County and the broader Northwest Georgia region should remain on alert as high fire danger conditions persist through the weekend. Dry weather, low humidity, and warming temperatures are creating an elevated risk for wildfire activity.
Forecasters say a strong high-pressure system will keep skies mostly clear and conditions dry across the area. Afternoon humidity levels are expected to drop into the 20–30% range, while dry vegetation and ongoing drought conditions make it easier for fires to start and spread.
Temperatures will steadily climb, reaching the upper 70s and low 80s today, with mid-80s expected by Saturday. Even warmer conditions are on the way next week, with highs შესაძლოა approaching the upper 80s to near 90 degrees by midweek.
Unfortunately, there is little to no chance of meaningful rainfall over the next 5 to 7 days. This lack of precipitation is expected to worsen drought conditions across Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and use extreme caution with anything that could spark a fire. Fire danger statements are expected to remain in effect as conditions continue.
Chattooga County Sees Higher Share Of Workers Filing Unemployment Claims As Jobless Rate Holds Near 4%
New labor data released on Thursday by the Georgia Department of Labor shows Chattooga County continues to see a higher share of workers filing unemployment claims compared to neighboring counties, as overall unemployment remains steady heading into the spring.
According to the latest figures, Chattooga County recorded 46 initial unemployment claims over the past four weeks, with a labor force of 8,877. That means about 0.5 percent of the workforce — or roughly 5 out of every 1,000 workers — filed for unemployment during that period.
At the same time, Chattooga County’s overall unemployment rate for March is holding around 4 percent, higher than surrounding counties but still in line with recent trends across Northwest Georgia.
Walker County reported 80 claims, but with a larger workforce, only about 0.2 percent of its workers filed claims. Its unemployment rate is around 3.1 percent.
Floyd County saw 396 claims over the same period, with about 0.8 percent of its workforce filing for unemployment — the highest share in the region. Floyd’s unemployment rate stands at approximately 3.3 percent.
While Chattooga’s total number of claims is lower than Floyd’s, its smaller workforce means changes in employment can have a bigger local impact.
Overall, unemployment across Northwest Georgia remains relatively low, with officials pointing to stable job conditions as the region moves further into 2026.
Red Cross Highlights Free Pet First Aid Resources During Awareness Month
April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month, and the American Red Cross is encouraging pet owners to take advantage of free tools that can help them respond quickly when a dog or cat faces an emergency.
The Red Cross is promoting its free Pet First Aid App, which offers step-by-step instructions, videos, and images for more than 25 common first aid and emergency situations. The app includes guidance for problems such as choking, wounds, bleeding, breathing emergencies, and cardiac issues.
Georgia Deputy Regional Disaster Officer Jeremy McLendon says pets are part of the family, and having trusted information available during an emergency can help owners take action right away.
In addition to emergency care guidance, the app also helps owners keep up with their pet’s health, build a pet first aid kit, prepare pets for disasters, and locate pet care facilities or pet-friendly hotels during emergencies. Users can also create a pet profile with photos, medications, and identification information.
The Red Cross is also offering an online cat and dog first aid course that pet owners can complete at their own pace. The training takes about 30 minutes and covers topics such as checking a pet’s normal vital signs, handling choking emergencies, performing CPR, caring for wounds, responding to seizures, and improving overall pet wellness.
Officials say Pet First Aid Awareness Month is a good reminder for pet owners to prepare now, before an emergency happens, so they can better protect the animals that depend on them every day.
“Beau’s Law” Passes Alabama Legislature, Awaits Governor’s Signature
A bill known as “Beau’s Law” has passed through the Alabama Legislature, aiming to establish stricter statewide standards for how dogs are treated—particularly those kept outdoors.
The legislation sets new requirements for proper shelter, access to food and clean water, and humane treatment of dogs across the state. It also places limits on tethering, restricting how dogs can be chained and requiring safer methods such as approved tethering systems.
Supporters say the measure is one of the most significant animal welfare efforts in Alabama in years, designed to close gaps in existing cruelty laws and create clearer, enforceable standards for pet care. The bill would also give animal control officers more authority to investigate neglect and intervene when animals are in danger.
Penalties for violations could include fines and misdemeanor charges, with tougher consequences for repeat offenders.
However, the measure is not yet law. It must still be signed by Governor Kay Ivey before it can take effect.
If approved, Beau’s Law would mark a major shift in how Alabama regulates the treatment of outdoor dogs.
Sources: Alabama Legislature (SB361 Bill Text) / LegiScan – Alabama Senate Bill 361 /AL.com / Alabama Daily News / Birmingham Free Press / American Kennel Club (AKC Legislative Alerts)
AdventHealth Redmond EMS Launches New Paramedic Training Program
AdventHealth Redmond EMS has launched a new paramedic training program aimed at strengthening emergency medical care across Northwest Georgia.
The program officially began April 8 and includes an inaugural class of 16 certified EMTs who are current AdventHealth team members. The 45-week program is designed to provide advanced clinical training, hands-on experience, and patient-centered emergency care.
Officials say the program will help expand career opportunities for EMS workers while improving response capabilities and patient outcomes in the region. Upon completion of the first cohort, the program will seek full accreditation.
“Launching this program allows our team members to expand their knowledge and skills so they can better serve our community,” said Nina Piatt, EMS captain and program director.
AdventHealth leaders say the initiative is part of a broader effort to invest in workforce development and build a stronger emergency response system by training paramedics locally.
The program is currently offered exclusively to AdventHealth EMTs at a reduced cost compared to traditional training programs.
Hospital officials say graduates will be equipped to deliver advanced, life-saving care and help ensure high-quality treatment for patients during critical emergencies.
GNTC Foundation Awards Over $48,000 in Spring Scholarships
The Georgia Northwestern Technical College Foundation has awarded $48,350 in scholarships and grants to 56 students for the Spring 2026 semester, helping offset the cost of tuition and educational expenses across multiple programs.
Awards ranged from $100 to $5,000 and were distributed to students enrolled in degree, diploma, and certificate programs at GNTC campuses throughout Northwest Georgia. College officials praised both the recipients and the donors who made the funding possible.
“We salute these students for their excellence and determination to realize their educational and career goals,” said GNTC President Dr. Heidi Popham, who also expressed appreciation for the community partners supporting the scholarships.
Students from across the region—including Rome, Dalton, Calhoun, Summerville, Trion, and surrounding communities—received recognition through a variety of scholarships and grants, including foundation scholarships, adult education awards, and program-specific honors in fields such as nursing, aviation maintenance, welding, business, and precision manufacturing.
The foundation also awarded several memorial and industry-supported scholarships, as well as grants aimed at helping adult education graduates continue their studies.
GNTC officials say the continued investment in students plays a key role in building a skilled workforce across Northwest Georgia.
IRS Urges Taxpayers To File Now As April 15 Deadline Approaches
The Internal Revenue Service is reminding taxpayers that the April 15 filing deadline is just days away and is encouraging anyone who still needs to file to take advantage of free tools and resources available at IRS.gov.
According to the IRS, taxpayers can use the website to check refund status, get tax preparation help, research tax law changes, and find answers to common filing questions. IRS Free File is also still available for qualified taxpayers who need to submit their returns at no cost.
The agency says taxpayers who cannot file by April 15 should request an extension by that date to avoid a failure-to-file penalty. An approved extension gives filers until Oct. 15 to submit their return, but any taxes owed are still due by April 15. The IRS stressed that an extension to file is not an extension to pay.
The IRS also noted that some taxpayers may qualify for automatic extensions, including certain Americans living abroad, military members serving outside the United States and Puerto Rico, and taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas.
For those who owe taxes and cannot pay in full, the IRS says payment plans may be available, including short-term and long-term installment agreements. Officials are urging taxpayers to file on time and pay as much as they can to reduce interest and penalties.
The IRS says additional filing help, payment options, and answers to frequently asked questions are available through the “Let Us Help You” section of IRS.gov.
Kuma Named WZQZ Pet Of The Week, Ready For A New Home
This week’s WZQZ Pet of the Week is Kuma, a friendly and playful dog currently waiting for adoption at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter.
Kuma is described as a sweet male dog who gets along well with other dogs and has a fun, energetic personality. Shelter staff say he would make a great addition to a loving home and is ready for a fresh start with a new family.
Kuma is available for adoption for $25 through the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, 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 available by appointment.
Anyone interested in adopting Kuma or learning more can contact the shelter at 706-857-0679.
Community Connect Day Planned For May 30 At Summerville Train Depot
A community-wide event designed to connect residents with local organizations, businesses, and services is set for Saturday, May 30, in downtown Summerville.
Community Connect Day will be held from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. at the Summerville Train Depot and is being hosted by the City of Summerville and the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce.
According to the event description, Summerville Main Street is joining with the Chamber for the event, which will feature food, vendors, and a variety of community groups welcoming local residents, visitors, and tourists arriving on the Tennessee Valley Railroad Steam Engine Passenger Train.
Organizers say agencies, clubs, churches, and other organizations will be set up along East Washington Street to help people learn more about what resources and opportunities are available in the community. The event is also intended to help groups recruit volunteers, members, and mentors.
Community leaders say the event is meant to celebrate community while giving residents a chance to learn more about local services and ways to get involved.
Community Connect Day will take place at the Summerville Train Depot, 111 East Washington Street, Summerville.
6-Year-Old Shot Wednesday Afternoon in Rome Housing Area
Rome Police are investigating after a 6-year-old child was shot Wednesday afternoon, April 8, 2026, near the intersection of East 13th Street and Crane Street in the John Graham Homes area.
According to Rome Police, officers responded shortly after 3:08 p.m. to reports of shots fired. When they arrived, they found a 6-year-old boy suffering from a gunshot wound to the right leg. The child was transported to a local hospital and is currently listed in stable condition.
Investigators say preliminary information indicates the child was not the intended target. Police believe the shots were fired from a moving vehicle.
The case remains an active and ongoing investigation. Rome Police are asking anyone with information, video footage, or who may have witnessed anything in the area to call 9-1-1 immediately, noting that even the smallest detail could be critical.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.