Arrest Report - Wednesday - May 27, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, May 27, 2026:
Rain Chances Ease Slightly, But Stormy Pattern Sticks Around In Northwest Georgia
Northwest Georgia will get a little break from the heavier coverage of showers and storms today and Thursday, but the rainy pattern is far from over.
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are still expected across Chattooga County and surrounding areas, with today bringing somewhat better storm coverage than Thursday. While the threat for repeated storms and localized flash flooding is lower than it has been in recent days, locally heavy rainfall remains possible, especially in stronger downpours.
A few storms could also become strong enough to produce gusty winds, mainly during the afternoon and evening hours when daytime heating helps fuel storm development.
Looking ahead, the unsettled weather pattern is expected to continue into the weekend, with rain chances staying elevated each day. Forecasters say the longer the wet setup remains in place, the less rainfall it may take to create flash flooding concerns in low-lying, poor-drainage, and flood-prone areas.
Temperatures will stay cooler than normal for late May thanks to the clouds and rain-cooled air. Afternoon highs are expected to hold mostly in the upper 70s to lower 80s, with overnight lows remaining in the 60s.
There is still no clear agreement on when the pattern will finally break. Some long-range guidance suggests changes could develop early next week, while other models keep the damp and unsettled setup in place into the first week of June.
For now, residents should keep an umbrella handy, stay alert for changing weather conditions, and be prepared for brief heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds with any stronger thunderstorm that develops.
Floyd County Expands Fight Against PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’ Contamination
Tuesday evening, the Floyd County Commission approved Arnold & Itkin LLP as lead counsel to represent the county in pursuing legal claims connected to PFAS contamination affecting local landfills, drinking water wells, parks, and other public properties.
PFAS — short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — are commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not easily break down in the environment and can remain in soil and water supplies for decades. Scientists and health officials have linked certain PFAS compounds to possible health risks including cancer, thyroid disease, immune system problems, and other long-term health concerns.
The issue has become one of the largest environmental concerns facing Northwest Georgia in recent years, particularly in areas tied to the region’s carpet manufacturing industry centered around Dalton and Whitfield County. Investigations by multiple news organizations found that PFAS chemicals were widely used for decades in stain-resistant carpet manufacturing products before wastewater carrying the chemicals entered local rivers and water systems.
Officials say PFAS contamination has created major financial burdens for local governments across Northwest Georgia as communities work to test water systems, monitor contamination levels, install treatment systems, and protect public infrastructure. Floyd County leaders say taxpayers could ultimately face millions of dollars in cleanup, remediation, monitoring, and long-term treatment costs if responsible parties are not held accountable.
The contamination concerns extend beyond Floyd County. Environmental groups and legal teams have expanded PFAS testing efforts into Floyd, Bartow, Polk, Paulding, Chattooga, and Haralson counties. Recent testing efforts in Northwest Georgia reportedly found some of the highest PFAS concentrations detected anywhere in the country.
In nearby Rome, the city previously reached a major settlement tied to PFAS contamination in the Oostanaula River, with settlement funds helping pay for a reverse osmosis water treatment facility designed to remove the chemicals from drinking water.
Meanwhile, litigation and political debate surrounding PFAS continue to intensify across the region as residents, environmental advocates, and local governments push for accountability from manufacturers, chemical suppliers, and other entities connected to the contamination.
National Foster Care Month Highlights Need For Foster Families In Chattooga County
May is National Foster Care Month, and local officials are encouraging families in Chattooga County and across Northwest Georgia to consider opening their homes to children in need.
According to Georgia foster care data, more than 10,800 children are currently in foster care statewide, with hundreds of children still waiting for permanent homes and supportive families.
The Georgia Division of Family and Children Services says foster parents play a critical role in providing safe, stable, and caring environments for children who have been removed from unsafe situations because of abuse, neglect, or other family crises.
Officials say there continues to be a need for additional foster families in rural communities like Chattooga County, especially for sibling groups, teenagers, and children with special needs.
People interested in becoming foster parents must complete training, background checks, and home evaluations before children can be placed in their care. State officials say foster families receive support services and guidance throughout the process.
The Chattooga County DFCS office is located at 102 Highway 48 in Summerville, and residents can call 706-857-0817 for more information about fostering or adopting children.
Additional statewide foster care information is also available by calling 1-877-210-KIDS.
Shorter University Announces New Dual-Degree Engineering Partnership With Kennesaw State
Shorter University has announced a new partnership with Kennesaw State University that will give students the opportunity to earn two bachelor’s degrees at the same time.
Through the program, students can graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Shorter University and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from KSU’s Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology.
Students will complete 45 credit hours at Shorter before transferring to Kennesaw State. The coursework has been aligned so credits transfer smoothly and students remain on track toward graduation.
Shorter Provost Dr. John Reams said the partnership gives students a strong pathway toward careers in engineering and mathematics while expanding academic opportunities.
Students who complete the requirements for the Shorter mathematics degree will receive that degree through reverse transfer while finishing their engineering degree at KSU.
For more information, visit shorter.edu/admissions or call 706-233-7319.
Chattooga County Deputy Arrests Summerville Man Following Pursuit And Drug Investigation
A Summerville man was arrested by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office following a late-night traffic stop and drug investigation on Saturday, May 23.
According to an incident report filed by Deputy Matt Wilson with the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, the deputy observed a green Dodge Dakota traveling south on Old Highway 27 with a cracked windshield and attempted to initiate a traffic stop after observing the vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed.
The report states the driver continued through several intersections before eventually traveling onto Mt. View Road, where deputies said the vehicle crossed lanes and drove into grassy areas while attempting to evade the stop. The deputy estimated the vehicle was traveling 60 miles per hour or more on the slick roadway.
Authorities said the vehicle later turned onto East Valley Road where deputies observed a white object allegedly thrown from the passenger side window before the vehicle stopped.
The driver was identified as James Edward Shook. According to the report, deputies later recovered a white pill bottle from the roadside containing suspected methamphetamine and suspected marijuana.
Deputies also reported locating additional suspected marijuana and drug-related items inside the vehicle during a probable cause search.
Shook was taken into custody by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
City Of Summerville Accepting Applications For Gas Maintenance Worker
The City of Summerville is accepting applications for the position of Gas Maintenance Worker.
According to the job posting, the position involves assisting with the installation, repair, and maintenance of gas lines and system components throughout the city. Duties include locating and repairing gas leaks, installing and maintaining pipelines and meters, conducting inspections and pressure tests, mowing, servicing valves, maintaining tools and supplies, and responding to emergency repair calls, including after-hours emergencies.
The position also requires employees to operate trucks and equipment, locate underground utilities, and complete service reports.
City officials say the work is performed primarily outdoors and may involve exposure to inclement weather, machinery, dirt, dust, and heavy lifting.
Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent experience along with experience related to gas system maintenance or similar work. A valid Georgia driver’s license or the ability to obtain one is also required.
Applications are available through the City of Summerville.
Georgia Road Trips Offer Summer Travel Ideas From Mountains To Coast
With summer vacation season getting underway, Georgia travelers looking for a quick getaway have plenty of road trip options without ever leaving the state.
One of the most popular destinations remains the North Georgia mountains, where cooler temperatures and scenic drives attract thousands of visitors each summer. Stops along the mountain loop include Helen, Blue Ridge, Brasstown Bald, Amicalola Falls, and Tallulah Gorge. Travelers can enjoy hiking, waterfalls, lake activities, tubing, and scenic mountain views.
Along Georgia’s coast, visitors continue heading south toward Savannah, Tybee Island, and the Golden Isles. Savannah’s historic district, Tybee’s beaches, and Jekyll Island’s famous Driftwood Beach remain top attractions during the summer travel season.
Southwest Georgia also offers unique destinations including Providence Canyon, often called Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” along with Plains, the hometown of former President Jimmy Carter, and the Okefenokee Swamp, known for wildlife tours and outdoor recreation.
History lovers may also enjoy Georgia’s Antebellum Trail stretching between Athens and Macon with stops in Madison and Milledgeville featuring historic homes, museums, and downtown shopping.
Travel officials remind drivers to prepare for heavier traffic during the summer months and to stay weather aware as afternoon thunderstorms become more common across Georgia.
Georgia Power Warns Customers About Active Utility Scams
Georgia Power customers are being warned about active scams involving people pretending to represent the utility company.
Scammers may contact customers by phone, text message, fake websites, or even door-to-door visits, claiming a bill is overdue and threatening immediate disconnection unless payment is made right away.
Georgia Power says customers should be especially cautious if someone demands payment through prepaid debit cards, gift cards, Cash App, Venmo, Bitcoin, or similar methods. The company says it does not collect payments door-to-door and does not demand those types of payments.
Customers should also watch for fake caller ID information and lookalike websites designed to steal personal or payment information.
Anyone who receives a suspicious call or visit should hang up, avoid giving out personal information, and verify the request by calling Georgia Power directly at 888-660-5890 or visiting GeorgiaPower.com.
Customers approached at home by someone suspicious should also contact local law enforcement.
Georgia Troopers Report Deadly 2026 Memorial Day Holiday Weekend
The Georgia Department of Public Safety says 12 people were killed on Georgia roads during the 2026 Memorial Day holiday travel period.
The 78-hour reporting period ran from 6 PM Friday, May 22, through midnight Monday, May 25. During that time, officials reported 298 traffic crashes statewide, with more than 150 injuries.
Law enforcement officers also made 329 DUI arrests and issued 708 distracted driving citations, along with 911 seatbelt citations. Officials say 31 crashes involved impaired drivers.
The 2026 fatality count was double the number reported during the same holiday period in 2025, when six people were killed on Georgia roads.
One of the fatal crashes was reported Sunday morning in Northwest Georgia’s Troop A region and claimed the life of a 24-year-old.
Public safety officials continue urging drivers to slow down, buckle up, avoid distractions, and never drive under the influence.
Chattooga County Animal Shelter Seeking Treat Donations During National Pet Month
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is encouraging residents to help shelter animals during the final week of National Pet Month by donating treats for cats and dogs currently in the shelter’s care.
Shelter officials say donations can be dropped off Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 3 PM until 4 PM at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter located at 464 Red Oak Road in Summerville.
The shelter says community support helps provide comfort and care for animals waiting for adoption and reminds residents that even small donations can make a big difference.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - May 26, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, May 26, 2026:
Heavy Rain, Flooding Threat And Strong Storms Continue Across Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for several more days of wet and stormy weather as an active weather pattern continues to bring repeated rounds of showers and thunderstorms across the region.
The National Weather Service says widespread rain and storms are expected to continue through the remainder of the week and likely into the weekend. Forecasters warn that saturated ground conditions combined with additional heavy rainfall could lead to localized flash flooding concerns across Northwest Georgia, especially in flood-prone and low-lying areas.
A Flood Watch remains in effect through late Tuesday evening and has now been expanded to cover most of North and West Georgia, including Chattooga County and surrounding areas. The watch comes after several consecutive days of heavy rain that have already dropped more than five inches of rainfall in some communities across the region.
Meteorologists say the atmosphere remains loaded with deep Gulf moisture streaming northward into Georgia. That moisture, combined with daytime heating and unstable air, will continue fueling numerous showers and thunderstorms each afternoon and evening.
Forecasters are especially concerned about storms repeatedly moving over the same locations, a setup known as “training,” which can quickly produce excessive rainfall totals. Some isolated locations could receive an additional two to three inches of rain in a short amount of time, increasing the risk for flash flooding on creeks, roads, and small streams.
While widespread severe weather is not currently expected, a few storms could become strong to severe during the afternoon and evening hours. The primary threat with stronger storms will be localized damaging wind gusts capable of downing small tree limbs, producing isolated power outages, and causing hazardous travel conditions.
The wet weather pattern is expected to continue Wednesday with another round of widespread afternoon and evening thunderstorms. Rain chances may briefly decrease slightly on Thursday as a weak ridge of high pressure attempts to build into the Southeast, but forecasters say scattered showers and storms are still likely because of the extremely moist air mass remaining in place.
Storm coverage is then expected to increase once again Friday and Saturday as another weather system approaches from the lower Mississippi Valley and a frontal boundary stalls across the region. That setup is expected to bring another surge of widespread showers and thunderstorms along with the potential for additional heavy rainfall.
Because soils are already saturated from recent rains, forecasters say additional Flood Watches may become necessary later this week and into the weekend if heavy rain continues.
Temperatures across Northwest Georgia will remain seasonably warm despite the unsettled weather, with daytime highs generally reaching the upper 70s to lower 80s and overnight lows staying in the 60s.
Forecasters say confidence in the forecast becomes lower by Sunday and early next week, but current indications suggest the wet pattern could continue into Monday before drier conditions potentially arrive sometime during the middle of next week.
Motorists are urged to use caution during periods of heavy rainfall and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
Drought May Impact Chattooga County Hay Quality And Yields
Chattooga County Extension officials say hay is finally being cut across much of the county, but recent drought conditions could have a noticeable impact on both yield and quality this season.
According to Chattooga County Extension, the dry weather may lead to lower hay yields, reduced nutritional value, and more weeds in local hay fields. Officials say that makes forage testing especially important for farmers and livestock owners who depend on hay for feed.
Extension officials say producers should not assume the quality of their forage without proper testing. Hay testing can help determine key values such as protein percentage, total digestible nutrients, and relative forage quality.
Those numbers can help livestock owners better understand whether their hay will meet nutritional needs or whether additional feed supplements may be necessary.
Farmers are encouraged to test hay as it is harvested and review the results carefully before relying on it through the season.
More information is available through the Chattooga County Extension Office.
Chattooga County Summer Feeding Program Starts Next Week
Chattooga County School Nutrition officials have announced the return of the Summer Feeding Program, providing free meals for children during the summer break.
The program will operate on Fridays beginning June 5th and continuing through July 10th. There will be no meal service during the week of June 29th through July 5th due to the Independence Day holiday.
The program is open to all children ages 18 and under. Families will receive seven days of breakfast meals and seven days of lunch meals for each child in the household at each pickup. Children do not have to be present to receive meals.
Pickup dates are Friday, June 5th, June 12th, June 19th, June 26th, and July 10th.
Meals will be distributed from 1:30 until 2:30 PM at Chattooga High School, Menlo Elementary School, Fairway Recreation Center, and Leroy Massey Elementary School.
Questions may be directed to School Nutrition Director Brandie Wooten at 706-859-3054.
Georgia Gas Prices Remain High As Memorial Day Travelers Head Home
As Memorial Day weekend travel comes to a close, AAA says thousands of Georgia drivers are expected to crowd highways heading home, while gas prices continue putting pressure on family travel budgets.
The statewide average price for regular gasoline currently sits at $3.99 per gallon. AAA says that’s about one cent lower than last week, but still 41 cents higher than last month and more than a dollar above this time last year.
A standard 15-gallon fill-up now costs drivers nearly $60.
AAA is encouraging motorists to plan ahead, avoid peak traffic times when possible, and compare fuel prices before stopping along their routes.
Across Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama, local gas prices vary by county. Chattooga County currently averages $3.83 per gallon, while Walker County is averaging $3.91. Floyd County drivers are paying around $3.89, and Gordon County is averaging $3.95 per gallon.
Across the state line, DeKalb County, Alabama currently has some of the highest local prices in the region at $4.09 per gallon, while Cherokee County, Alabama averages around $3.95.
Statewide, the least expensive metro area in Georgia is currently the Catoosa-Dade-Walker market at $3.83 per gallon, while Macon has the state’s highest average at $4.07.
AAA says prices are expected to remain elevated as the busy summer travel season gets underway.
Community Connect Day Planned for Downtown Summerville This Saturday
The City of Summerville and the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce are inviting the public to attend Community Connect Day this Saturday from noon until 3 PM at the Summerville Train Depot.
The family-friendly event will feature local organizations, churches, clubs, agencies, and volunteer groups from across the community. Organizers say the goal is to help residents learn more about available services, volunteer opportunities, and ways to become involved in the community.
The event also coincides with the arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad steam engine passenger train, bringing visitors and tourists into downtown Summerville.
Food vendors and informational booths will line East Washington Street throughout the afternoon. Community leaders say the event is designed to connect people with resources while showcasing everything Chattooga County has to offer.
Groups interested in participating or setting up booths are encouraged to contact the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce or the City of Summerville for more information.
Drought Raises Concerns For Georgia Apple Farmers Ahead Of Fall Harvest
Apple farmers in North Georgia are watching the weather closely as a months-long drought raises concerns about the upcoming fall harvest.
In Gilmer County, home to Ellijay — known as the Apple Capital of Georgia — orchard owners say dry conditions are already putting stress on apple trees. Curled leaves, reduced moisture, and weakened tree health could all affect the size and quality of this year’s crop.
Agriculture experts say drought-stressed trees are more vulnerable to disease, fungus, and bacteria. Without enough rainfall, apple trees may produce lower yields and smaller fruit, and in more severe cases, some apples could fall from the trees before harvest.
Farmers say North Georgia has received more rain than some other parts of the state, but several areas remain in severe drought. Growers are hoping for more rain before the fall apple season begins.
Apple picking season in North Georgia traditionally begins around Labor Day weekend and continues through October.
Mohawk Industries Shareholders Approve New 2026 Incentive Plan
Mohawk Industries shareholders have approved a new 2026 Incentive Plan following the company’s annual stockholder meeting held on May 21st.
According to the company’s filing, the plan authorizes up to 3.5 million shares of common stock for equity and cash-based awards. Those awards may be made available to employees, officers, directors, and consultants.
The incentive plan became effective the same day it was approved and is scheduled to run through May 21, 2036, unless ended earlier.
Mohawk Industries remains one of the major manufacturing names connected to Northwest Georgia’s floor covering industry.
Manufacturing Continues To Drive Chattooga County Economy
Manufacturing remains the leading employment sector in Chattooga County, continuing its long-standing role as the backbone of the local economy.
Recent workforce data from 2024 through 2026 shows approximately 2,846 Chattooga County residents are employed in manufacturing jobs, making it the county’s largest employment sector by a wide margin.
Historically known for textile and floor covering production, the county’s manufacturing base has expanded in recent years to include automotive parts and building materials industries.
Healthcare and social assistance ranks as the county’s second-largest employment sector with more than 1,300 workers, followed by retail trade with over 1,100 employees.
Industry-specific job data also shows wholesale operations remain a major source of employment in the county with more than 2,500 local jobs, while public administration and education continue to provide hundreds of additional positions.
Among the county’s major employers are Mount Vernon Mills, Mohawk Industries, and the Georgia Department of Corrections.
Economic officials say agriculture also continues to play an important role in Chattooga County through poultry, cattle, and hay production, even though it employs fewer workers overall than manufacturing.
As a designated Tier 1 county in Georgia, Chattooga County also qualifies for the state’s highest level of job tax credits for companies creating at least five new jobs.