Arrest Report - Saturday - March 14, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, March 14, 2026
Warm Saturday for Chattooga County before Storm Threat Monday and Hard Freeze Next Week
Chattooga County and the rest of northwest Georgia will get one more dry and unusually warm day today before a much more active stretch of weather arrives Sunday and Monday, followed by a sharp blast of cold air that could bring widespread freezing temperatures by the middle of next week. Forecasters say today will stay sunny, dry, and very mild, with afternoon temperatures climbing well into the 70s and possibly nearing 80 degrees in parts of northwest Georgia. That will make today the warmest and quietest day in the forecast before conditions begin changing quickly.
The pattern starts to shift on Sunday as moisture increases across the region ahead of a strong storm system moving in from the west. A warm front is expected to lift northward, helping spark scattered showers and thunderstorms by midday and into Sunday afternoon. While Sunday is not expected to bring the most significant severe weather threat, forecasters say an isolated strong storm cannot be ruled out, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. Gusty winds would be the main concern if any storm strengthens.
The bigger concern remains Monday, when a strong cold front is expected to sweep through Georgia. Forecast confidence continues to increase that another round of severe weather will develop across north and central Georgia, including northwest Georgia and Chattooga County.
Right now, the main threats appear to be damaging straight-line winds and the possibility of tornadoes. Forecast discussions indicate the atmosphere will become increasingly favorable for a line of strong to severe thunderstorms as the front approaches. While the exact timing is still being refined, current projections suggest late Sunday night through Monday afternoon will be the time period to watch closely in northwest Georgia.
Meteorologists say there are still some differences in how the storm system may evolve. A slower system would allow storms to tap into more daytime heating Monday, which could increase the severe weather threat. A faster-moving system could move through earlier, somewhat limiting instability, but still bringing a risk for dangerous storms. Either way, confidence is growing that Chattooga County and surrounding areas could be impacted by severe weather on Monday.
Residents are encouraged to stay alert and make sure they have multiple ways to receive watches and warnings, especially with the threat potentially arriving during the overnight or morning hours.
Once the front moves through, the weather will change dramatically.
Much colder air is expected to pour into northwest Georgia Monday night, and forecasters say sub-freezing temperatures are likely both Tuesday morning and Wednesday morning. Overnight lows are expected to drop into the 20s and low 30s, with wind chills falling into the teens and 20s in some locations. Higher elevations could feel even colder.
That rapid drop in temperatures after several days of springlike warmth could create problems for gardens, blooming trees, early crops, and other sensitive vegetation across Chattooga County. Frost and freeze products may eventually be needed if forecast trends continue.
Tuesday is shaping up to be one of the coldest days of the week, with daytime highs only reaching the 30s in the mountains and 40s to lower 50s elsewhere, before a gradual warming trend returns later in the week.
For now, northwest Georgia residents can enjoy one more pleasant day today, but they should also use the time to prepare for a stormy Monday and a hard freeze risk behind it.
Georgia Net Tax Collections Dip Slightly in February, Remain Up for Fiscal Year
Georgia’s net tax collections totaled $2.12 billion in February, a slight decrease of 0.1% compared to February of last year.
Even with that small monthly decline, the state remains ahead overall for the fiscal year. Through the first eight months of the budget year, Georgia has collected about $21.88 billion, an increase of 1.6% over the same period a year ago.
The biggest drop in February came from individual income tax collections, which fell 4.1%. Higher tax refunds were a major factor in that decline, even as withholding payments showed a slight increase.
At the same time, sales tax collections moved higher, providing one of the brighter spots in the report. Motor fuel tax revenues also increased from the same month last year.
Meanwhile, corporate income tax collections posted a sharp decline for the month. The state also reported smaller decreases in motor vehicle tag, title and fee collections.
Despite the mixed results in February, Georgia’s overall revenue picture remains positive for the year so far, with collections continuing to run ahead of last fiscal year’s pace.
UGA Extension Offering Diabetes Cooking School Series In Chattooga County
The University of Georgia Extension – Chattooga County is inviting residents to participate in a “Learning to Live With Diabetes” Cooking School Series, designed to help individuals better manage diabetes and other chronic health conditions through healthier cooking and nutrition choices.
The 2026 Lunch and Learn Series will cover several topics including label reading and portion control, sweeteners, carbohydrates and fiber, hypertension and sodium, and modifying recipes for healthier alternatives. Classes will be held Wednesdays from noon until 1:30 p.m. beginning March 25 and continuing through April 22.
Each class costs $15 and includes lunch. Sessions will take place at the Chattooga County Extension Office, 40 Middle School Road in Summerville. To register, residents can call 706-857-0744 or email rbt@uga.edu.
IRS Extends Office Hours At Taxpayer Assistance Centers During Filing Season
The Internal Revenue Service has announced extended weekly office hours at more than 200 Taxpayer Assistance Centers across the country to give taxpayers more time to receive in-person help during filing season. The expanded weekday hours will remain in place through Thursday, April 30.
Taxpayers can find out whether a nearby Taxpayer Assistance Center is offering extended hours by using the TAC Locator tool on IRS.gov. The online tool provides office locations, directions, available services, and information about extended hours.
In addition to longer weekday hours, many Taxpayer Assistance Centers will also be open on select Saturdays through June 2026. During those Saturday hours, taxpayers can access all regularly available TAC services except for making cash payments. The IRS encourages taxpayers to check the website regularly because participating locations and available hours may change without notice.
Carrie Rowe Named Chattooga County School District Teacher Of The Year
Leroy Massey Elementary School is celebrating one of its own after Mrs. Carrie Rowe was named Chattooga County School District Teacher of the Year.
School officials shared the announcement on social media, congratulating Rowe and thanking her for her dedication to students and the school community. Leroy Massey Elementary said they are grateful for her continued commitment to supporting students, fellow educators, and the community.
District Teacher of the Year honors are awarded to educators who demonstrate excellence in the classroom, leadership within their schools, and a strong commitment to student success.
Sheriff Schrader Joins National Warning About “764” Threat Targeting Children Online
Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader is joining law enforcement agencies across the country in warning parents about a violent online extremist network known as “764,” which authorities say targets minors through social media, gaming platforms, and private chat features.
Authorities say the group and similar networks use manipulation, sextortion, blackmail, and threats to pressure children into sharing explicit material, harming themselves, or hurting others.
Officials say parents should watch for warning signs such as sudden secrecy with phones or computers, multiple online accounts, staying up late to chat with unknown individuals, and fear or panic when a parent asks to see a device.
Law enforcement recommends keeping computers and gaming systems in common areas, setting device time limits, reviewing friends lists and messaging apps, and maintaining open conversations with children about online dangers. Parents and guardians are encouraged to reassure children that they can speak up without fear if something feels wrong online.
Anyone who believes a child may be in immediate danger should call 911. Suspected online exploitation should also be reported to the proper authorities.
Prison-Based Methamphetamine Ring Members Sentenced
Thirteen members of a prison-based methamphetamine distribution ring have been convicted and sentenced following a multi-year federal investigation. Authorities say state inmates Edward Kelvin Pope, David Wilson, and Kevin Josue Campos Rivera coordinated drug trafficking operations from Central State Prison in Macon, working with federal inmate Jose Santos Isaola Cisneros at the Federal Correctional Institution in Atlanta to distribute methamphetamine through couriers and distributors across north Georgia. Pope, known as “Paw Paw,” was already serving a life sentence plus 70 years for armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes at the time of the offenses.
The investigation began in November 2020 after law enforcement learned the inmates were directing couriers outside the prison to sell large amounts of methamphetamine. Authorities documented several major transactions, including the delivery of two kilograms of methamphetamine at a Cartersville gas station in April 2021 and another kilogram sold in a Stockbridge restaurant parking lot. When agents later searched a residence in Stockbridge connected to the operation, they discovered an active methamphetamine conversion lab and seized more than 3,000 kilograms of methamphetamine. Additional searches uncovered drugs, firearms, and tens of thousands of dollars in cash.
Federal officials said the sentences send a clear message that criminal activity will not be tolerated even behind prison walls. U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg said the defendants coordinated the distribution of “massive amounts” of methamphetamine throughout north Georgia, while DEA officials noted that methamphetamine continues to fuel addiction and violence in communities. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Marshals Service, with assistance from the Cartersville Police Department, Henry County Sheriff’s Office, and the Georgia Department of Corrections. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laurel B. Milam and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua May prosecuted the case.
City Of Summerville Accepting Applications For Building Inspector Position
The City of Summerville is accepting applications for a Building Inspector position. According to the job summary, the position is responsible for inspecting new residential, commercial, and industrial construction to make sure projects comply with applicable building codes, zoning regulations, safety standards, and approved construction plans.
Major duties include conducting inspections at multiple stages of construction, reviewing residential and commercial building applications, explaining code requirements to contractors and property owners, preparing reports and inspection records, issuing stop work orders when required permits are missing, and investigating complaints involving code violations and unsafe structures.
The position also involves reviewing construction plans for code compliance, issuing building permits, coordinating with other departments such as fire and utilities, enforcing the International Property Maintenance Code, administering the clean and lien program, and attending court when needed for property maintenance and related issues.
City officials say the job is primarily field-based, with considerable outdoor work required at land use developments, construction sites, and public works facilities. The position also includes physical demands such as standing, walking, climbing, stooping, and occasionally lifting up to 50 pounds.
Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, experience in construction, building inspection, or a related field, and a valid Class C driver’s license in the state of residency. Applicants must also possess or be able to obtain the appropriate state certification for the type of inspections conducted.
The City of Summerville says it is looking for a detail-oriented, knowledgeable, and dedicated Building Inspector to help ensure the community continues to grow safely and responsibly.
Ralph “Country” Brown Memorial Scholarship Applications Due March 27
Applications are now being accepted for the Ralph “Country” Brown Memorial Scholarship, available to senior baseball and softball players at Chattooga High School.
The scholarship committee will review applications and select the student whose academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and overall character demonstrate strong promise, a desire to succeed, and a commitment to making a positive contribution to others. The student’s application essay will also play an important role in the selection process.
Applications must be picked up and returned to the Chattooga High School Guidance Office. The deadline to submit applications is March 27, 2026.
The scholarship honors Ralph “Country” Brown, one of the most popular professional baseball players in Atlanta history. Brown, who grew up in Summerville, played for the minor league Atlanta Crackers from 1947 to 1952 and became a fan favorite for his talent and personality. In recognition of his accomplishments, he was inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 1993.
Brown began his professional career in 1946 at age 25 when he signed with the Tampa Smokers, a Class C farm team for the New York Yankees. He quickly made an impact, winning both the league batting title and Most Valuable Player award. The following season he repeated the achievement while playing for the AA Augusta Tigers.
It was during his time with Augusta that teammate Dutch Lumberger gave him the nickname “Country” after learning Brown was from Summerville, Georgia — a name that stuck with him throughout his career.
Brown later joined the Atlanta Crackers, where he earned $500 a month and became one of the team’s standout players. In 1949 he led the Southern Association with 33 stolen bases and helped the Crackers win the 1950 Southern Association championship.
After being traded to the Chattanooga Lookouts in 1952, Brown eventually retired from baseball in 1957 and returned home to Summerville. He later served his community in law enforcement and spent the final 25 years of his life as a magistrate judge in Chattooga County.
Brown passed away on December 24, 1996, but his legacy in both baseball and public service continues to be remembered.
Former Georgia governor and U.S. senator Zell Miller once said Brown was his favorite Atlanta Cracker, while Atlanta Journal columnist Paul Hemphill described him as a symbol of determination and character — “a Southern farm boy who had to make his own way.”
The scholarship established in his honor aims to recognize local student-athletes who reflect those same values.
Blood Assurance Reports Critical Need For Type O Blood Donations In Northwest Georgia
Blood Assurance says several days of heavy hospital usage have pushed its supply of O-positive and O-negative blood to critical levels, while platelet supplies are also nearing critical status.
The organization says there is an emergency need for donors as soon as possible, especially those with Type O blood.
The need comes as the region moves into severe weather season, a time when trauma cases can rise and put even more pressure on local blood supplies. Blood Assurance says rebuilding the supply quickly is especially important to help meet patient needs.
Blood Assurance is the primary supplier of blood and blood products for Atrium Health Floyd and AdventHealth Redmond in Rome, and it also supplies Cartersville Medical Center. Donations made at Blood Assurance donor centers and blood drives in Rome and Cartersville help support local patients across the area.
Eligible donors are encouraged to make an appointment as soon as possible, although walk-ins are also being accepted.
To schedule a donation, visit Blood Assurance online, call 800-962-0628, or text BAGIVE to 999777.
Chattooga County Animal Shelter Hosting Adoption Event Saturday
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter will host a special adoption event this Saturday, March 14, from 10 AM until 4 PM.
A number of dogs and cats will be available for adoption, including Ember, Rem, Lick, Rosie, Kuma, Hoss, Diesel, Gojo, Buster, Ranger, Boone, Maple, Radar, Ollie, Freckles, Dottie, Pepper, Ozzie, and George. Shelter officials encourage residents to stop by, meet the animals, and consider giving a pet a new home.
The event will take place at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, 464 Red Oak Road in Summerville. For more information, call 706-857-0679.
Arrest Report - Friday - March 13, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, March 13, 2026:
Warm Weekend Before Storms And A Sharp Freeze Next Week
Sunny and calm weather will continue across north and central Georgia through Saturday, with temperatures quickly warming after a cool, frosty start Friday morning. High pressure will keep skies mostly clear while winds turn southerly, helping afternoon temperatures climb back into the 70s and even low 80s by Saturday — well above normal for mid-March.
The quiet weather won’t last long. Moisture will increase on Sunday as a strong cold front approaches the Southeast. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop late Sunday and continue into Monday. Some storms could become strong to severe as the front moves across the region, and forecasters are watching the setup closely over the next few days.
Behind the front, a blast of much colder air will settle across the Southeast. By Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, widespread freezing temperatures are expected, with lows dropping into the mid-20s to lower 30s across much of north and central Georgia. Frost and freeze conditions could impact early spring plants and gardens.
After the cold start, temperatures will gradually rebound through the rest of next week with dry and sunny conditions returning.
Chattooga County Man Arrested After Incident on Highway 48
A Chattooga County man was arrested following an early morning incident along Highway 48 near Fish Hatchery Road on March 4, according to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say deputies were dispatched around 3:58 a.m. after a report of a suspicious vehicle sitting in the roadway with no one around it. When deputies arrived, they found a man later identified as Matthew Dillon Lane, 38, sitting in the driver’s seat and appearing to be unconscious.
According to the incident report, deputies detected the smell of alcohol and began investigating the situation. Officials say Lane exited the vehicle and walked toward the rear of the patrol car while deputies continued their investigation. Deputies reported that Lane repeatedly ignored instructions to return to the back of the vehicle and was warned that he could face arrest for obstruction if he did not comply.
Authorities say Lane was then placed under arrest after continuing to refuse commands. Deputies reported that he resisted while being taken into custody before officers were able to secure him in handcuffs.
Lane was charged with felony obstruction of officers, misdemeanor obstruction of officers, DUI – drugs, and additional traffic offenses. He was transported to the Chattooga County Jail following the incident.
Summerville Man Accused Of Using False Information To Apply For Driver’s License
A Summerville man is facing a felony charge after authorities say he used fraudulent information while applying for a Georgia driver’s license in Rome.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 55-year-old Mark Williams went to the Georgia Department of Driver Services on Martha Berry Highway in Rome on February 9, 2024, and completed an application for a driver’s license using a different name and date of birth.
Investigators said Williams then signed the application, certifying that the information he provided was correct.
Williams is charged with one felony count of false statements and writings.
Hufstetler Pushes Housing Bills Aimed at Lowering Costs for Georgia Families
State Sen. Chuck Hufstetler, R-Rome, says rising housing costs are one of the biggest threats facing Georgia families and argues that lawmakers must act to protect homeownership opportunities across the state.
Hufstetler said families across Georgia are finding it increasingly difficult to buy a home as large corporations and institutional investors purchase more single-family properties. He pointed to metro Atlanta, where he said institutional investors now own roughly one-quarter of all rental properties.
According to Hufstetler, the growing influence of large investment firms is forcing working families to compete with Wall Street-backed buyers for homes in their own communities.
He said the impact is already being felt, noting that the average age of someone entering a 30-year mortgage has risen to 41. Hufstetler said that trend could make it harder for many Georgians to retire by age 65 and may also cause some couples to delay starting families or even consider leaving the state in search of more affordable housing.
To address the issue, Hufstetler is backing Senate Bill 463, which would bar large corporations from owning more than 500 single-family residential properties in Georgia. The bill would also prohibit foreign companies from owning single-family residential rental homes in the state.
Hufstetler said the measure is designed to keep homes available for Georgia families rather than large investment firms.
Lawmakers are also advancing two additional housing-related bills aimed at making it easier to build homes in Georgia.
Senate Bill 437 would shorten construction review timelines and allow certified private companies to conduct certain building, plumbing and electrical inspections. Hufstetler said the bill would help reduce delays that can increase costs for future homeowners.
Senate Bill 447 would require local governments to provide clear and timely explanations when building permits are denied. Hufstetler said the legislation would improve transparency for families looking to build a home.
Hufstetler also highlighted Senate Bill 566, which he said would clarify what homeowners are being taxed on and whether they qualify for exemptions. He described the bill as a commonsense step intended to help Georgia homeowners better understand property valuation and tax issues.
Hufstetler said tackling housing affordability remains a major priority and said he hopes the measures will continue moving forward in the House.
Trion Recreation Department Announces New Dog Park Entry Requirements
The Trion Recreation Department is reminding residents that new requirements are now in place for those wishing to use Brinley’s Dog Park in Trion.
According to the recreation department, anyone planning to use the dog park must first visit the Trion Recreation Department office and provide proof of their dog’s rabies vaccination.
Once vaccination records are verified, dog owners will receive a key card that allows access to the dog park.
Officials say the process is designed to help keep unregistered or non-vaccinated dogs out of the park, improving safety for pets and their owners.
Brinley’s Dog Park, described as Chattooga County’s first dog park, is located at Trion Veterans Memorial Park near Rosser Pavilion behind the track field. The park features separate fenced one-acre sections for large and small dogs, along with benches, agility obstacles, hoops, water fountains, and other amenities designed to create a safe and enjoyable place for dogs to play.
The project was created to honor Brinley Corbin, a local resident who dreamed of having a dedicated and safe community space for dogs. Organizers say the park was designed to be a lasting and cherished place for local families and pet owners.
Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact the Trion Recreation Department at 706-734-2011.
Summerville Seeking Food Vendors For 2026 Celebrate Independence Festival
The City of Summerville is now accepting applications for food vendors for the 2026 Celebrate Independence Festival and Fireworks.
The annual event will be held Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center.
City officials say the food vendor application is now available online through the Summerville Parks and Recreation website and will remain open through April 10.
Vendors selected to participate will be notified on April 17. The cost for a 15-by-15 vendor space is $75, and the fee must be paid by June 1.
The Celebrate Independence Festival is one of the community’s biggest summer events, featuring food vendors, family activities, and fireworks.
More information and vendor applications are available at www.summervillerec.org.
Kemp Discusses Fuel Tax Suspension Amid Rising Fuel Prices
As fuel prices continue to rise amid fighting in Iran, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp says he is not ready to suspend the state gas tax just yet.
Kemp told reporters Tuesday that previous gas tax suspensions were “targeted and strategic,” and he does not want to overreact to what could end up being a short-term spike in prices.
The latest jump in fuel costs follows military strikes in Iran on February 28 involving U.S. and Israeli forces, which pushed oil prices sharply higher.
Kemp noted that oil briefly climbed to around $115 a barrel before falling back to about $90 a barrel. He also said the United States is producing record levels of oil and gas, which he believes provides strong long-term energy security even while prices remain vulnerable to global events.
The governor said he plans to keep watching the markets for several more days before making any decision on whether to suspend the gas tax.
Kemp has taken that step three times before. In 2022, he suspended the gas tax as prices climbed during the war in Ukraine. In 2023, he again suspended the tax as inflation hit a 40-year high. In 2024, Kemp suspended the gas tax in response to Hurricane Helene.
For now, Georgia drivers will have to wait and see whether the recent rise in gas prices becomes severe enough to prompt another temporary tax break.