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.
Bridge Health To Host 4th Annual Mental Health Candlelight Vigil In Chattooga County
Bridge Health is inviting the community to attend its 4th Annual Mental Health Candlelight Vigil this spring in Chattooga County.
The event will take place Thursday, May 7 at 5:30 p.m. at the Chattooga County Civic Center. Organizers say the vigil will be an evening focused on community, reflection, and hope while supporting individuals and families on their mental health journey.
Participants will gather to light candles in honor of resilience, promote mental health awareness, and offer encouragement to those facing mental health challenges. Officials say the event is designed to remind people that no one has to face their struggles alone.
The vigil is hosted by Bridge Health with support from the Family Crisis Center and C.A.R.E.S., and community members are encouraged to attend and stand together in support of mental health awareness.
Berry College Issues Important Prom Season Reminder, Updates Photo Guidelines
Berry College is reminding families and students to review its updated photography guidelines as prom and homecoming season brings a major increase in campus traffic.
According to Berry College, about 4,000 cars enter campus on peak Saturdays in late March, April, and early May, bringing an estimated 10,000 visitors. Most of those visitors head to the Ford buildings, creating traffic delays, limited parking, and longer walks.
The college said it is pleased to serve as the backdrop for special moments, but stressed that visitors should carefully review the new rules before arriving. Berry also says ambassadors will be on campus during heavy-traffic weekends to help maintain a positive experience.
Under the updated guidelines, Berry reminds visitors that it is a private institution, not a public park, and says students, faculty, and staff have priority access to outdoor areas around campus buildings. The school says visitors should not block walkways or entrances, should only park in designated areas, and should be prepared to walk.
The college also says glitter, balloons, and confetti are not allowed, and drones are prohibited anywhere on campus. Visitors are also asked not to climb on buildings, signs, trees, or other structures, and to avoid restricted areas on Mountain Campus, except for Possum Trot and Mirror/Swan Lakes.
Berry notes that the busiest times are typically Saturdays between noon and 6 p.m., especially around the Ford Buildings. The college encourages guests to consider other scenic campus locations such as Memory Lane, College Chapel, Barnwell Chapel, Kilpatrick Commons, and various fields and wooded areas. Berry also points visitors to off-campus Rome photo spots including the City Clocktower, Opera Alley, Broad Street, the Robert Redden Footbridge, and the Labyrinth of Rome.
Chattooga River Group to Host Blue Trail Paddle Event in Summerville
The Chattooga River Group is inviting the public to take part in an upcoming Blue Trail paddle event on Lyerly Dam Road in Summerville. The paddle will begin with a mass launch at 10 a.m. and will follow the route from Lyerly Dam Launch to Chattoogaville.
Special guest Shane Kornberg, former manager of the Fish Hatchery in Cohutta and now an Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent with UGA Extension in Whitfield County, will lead discussion during the outing. Organizers say Kornberg will cover topics including river ecology, invasive versus native species, and the benefits of a diverse ecosystem.
Participants will need to bring their own kayak, paddle, life jacket, and snacks, and should also make their own transportation arrangements for after the paddle. Organizers say each participant will be asked to provide an emergency contact and sign a waiver before launching.
Centre Man Charged In Child Exploitation Investigation Following ICAC Cyber Tip
A Centre man is facing multiple felony charges following an investigation by the Centre Police Department tied to an Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) cyber tip received in late January 2026.
According to authorities, 21-year-old Malaki Ray Sipsy of Centre was identified as a suspect after investigators received information involving the alleged distribution of child sexual abuse material through an online social media platform.
Police said the cyber tip included evidence and information that helped investigators connect the case to an address within the city limits of Centre.
As the investigation progressed, Chief Investigator Randy Mayorga with the Centre Police Department worked with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Unit to execute a search warrant. During that operation, several electronic devices were seized.
Authorities said Chief Investigator Brian Gilliland with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office assisted with obtaining and extracting data from those devices. During the review, investigators reported finding videos and images identified as child sexual abuse material. Police also said some images involving minors had allegedly been manipulated using artificial intelligence.
Sipsy is currently being held on 4 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material and 122 counts of attempted possession of child sexual abuse material under Alabama Code 13A-12-192(b).
The Centre Police Department also urged parents, guardians, and custodians to monitor children’s phones and social media privacy settings.
Officials expressed appreciation to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office investigators for their assistance in the case.
Authorities noted that all suspects are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
WEIS Radio contributed to this report
Arrest Report - Thursday - March 12, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, March 10, 2026:
Cold Front Brings Gusty Winds Today, Cooler Air To Chattooga County Before Weekend Warmup
A cold front that brought showers and thunderstorms across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia early Thursday morning is expected to move out of the area by early afternoon, leaving gusty winds and cooler air behind.
Northwest winds will increase through the afternoon, blowing 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph before gradually easing tonight. Winds will shift more to the northeast overnight and fall below 10 mph.
Behind the front, temperatures will briefly cool down from Thursday into Friday, returning to near-normal levels for mid-March. Afternoon highs today will likely end up in the upper 50s to lower 60s once the front passes. Earlier forecasts suggested warmer readings, but how quickly the storm line moves through will determine whether some areas reach the 70s before the cooler air arrives.
Early Friday morning could also bring patchy frost or a light freeze in the higher elevations, especially in the mountains of Northwest Georgia.
The cool stretch will be short-lived. By the weekend, a rapid warming trend is expected as upper-level winds shift. Temperatures across the region could surge into the upper 70s and even the 80s by Saturday and Sunday.
Another cold front is expected to arrive Monday, bringing a chance for thunderstorms, particularly across southern portions of the forecast area. The exact timing will determine whether severe weather becomes a concern.
Behind that system, a much colder and drier air mass will settle into the Southeast early next week. Forecasts show widespread freezing temperatures possible Monday night into Tuesday, especially north of Interstate 85, with cooler conditions lasting through midweek.
The cold, dry air could also create dangerous fire weather conditions, particularly Tuesday, when humidity levels may fall below 25 percent and northwest winds could again gust near 30 mph. Meteorologists say Red Flag conditions are possible, though details may change as the forecast evolves.
Residents in Chattooga County and across Northwest Georgia are encouraged to stay updated on both fire weather concerns and the potential for freezing temperatures early next week.
Mohawk Hiring Event Set For Today In Trion
People looking for a new job opportunity will have a chance to connect with Mohawk Industries during a hiring event in Trion today.
Mohawk’s Summerville team is returning to the Trion area with immediate openings for Lift Truck Operators, Sorters, Waste Handlers, and Extrusion Operators.
The event will be held Thursday, March 12, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Trion Recreation Department, 90 Dalton Street, Trion. The jobs are based at Mohawk Summerville, 106 John Bankston Drive, Summerville.
Officials say a 12-hour night swing shift is available from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Previous experience is required for the Extrusion Operator position.
Starting pay ranges from $16 to $20 or more per hour, depending on the role. Benefits include health, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) match, tuition reimbursement, a training program, and up to 80 hours of paid time off.
Applicants are encouraged to apply in advance online. Those with questions can also text “Mohawk” to 97211 to speak with the company’s talent acquisition team.
Candidates attending the hiring event are asked to dress for the work environment, including long pants, a short- or long-sleeve shirt, and tennis shoes or work boots. No jewelry, piercings, hoodies, or jackets with hoods are allowed because of safety concerns. Long hair must be pulled up and off the shoulders, and applicants should bring two forms of ID.
Mohawk Industries says it is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and veteran status, and is committed to an inclusive workplace.
Walker County Sheriff’s Office Warns of Jury Duty Scam Calls
The Walker County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a new wave of scam calls from people falsely claiming to be employees or officers with the agency. According to the sheriff’s office, callers are telling victims they missed jury duty and now have a warrant, while also making it appear the call is coming from the sheriff’s office main phone line.
Officials say the Walker County Sheriff’s Office does not operate this way and is urging the public not to give out personal information or send money to anyone they do not know. Anyone with questions about the calls is encouraged to contact the sheriff’s office directly at 706-670-1931.
Blood Drive Planned at Chattooga County EMA on April 10
Residents in Chattooga County will have an opportunity to help save lives during an upcoming community blood drive hosted at the Chattooga County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) in Summerville. The blood drive is scheduled for Friday, April 10, from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the EMA facility located at 170 Farrar Drive.
The event is being organized in partnership with Blood Assurance, and officials say a single blood donation can help save up to three lives. Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment in advance through bloodassurance.org/schedule, though walk-ins may be accepted if space allows.
In addition, Blood Assurance is offering an incentive for donors. Anyone who donates between April 1 and April 15 will be entered to win a $100 gift card, with one winner selected per community and seven winners total.
Community leaders say blood donations are always needed to help hospitals maintain an adequate supply for patients requiring surgeries, treatments, and emergency care.
Chattooga County Man Sentenced to Life in Prison in Child Abuse and Sexual Abuse Case
A Chattooga County man has been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted by a jury on multiple charges involving the physical and sexual abuse of children, according to the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office.
Officials say a Chattooga County jury found Timmy Glenn guilty on February 22 of rape, aggravated sexual battery, two counts of child molestation, two counts of cruelty to children in the first degree, two counts of cruelty to children in the second degree, and simple battery. Prosecutors said evidence presented during trial showed Glenn repeatedly physically and sexually abused three children in his care.
According to the District Attorney’s Office, the case came to light after two of the children were able to sneak out of the home and seek help from family members following an incident in which one child was allegedly physically abused with a large wooden paddle. Authorities were then contacted, and the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Family and Children Services conducted a welfare check at the home. Two of the children were removed from the residence for their safety.
Investigators say Detective Daniel Sanford with the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office led the investigation and arranged forensic interviews at the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit Children’s Advocacy Center. During those interviews, children reported repeated physical abuse, including being struck with a wooden paddle multiple times a day and suffering significant bruising.
After learning they would not be returned to Glenn’s care, officials said the children later disclosed additional abuse, including the repeated use of a tasing device and multiple acts of sexual abuse involving three of the children. Two additional children who had also been living in the home were interviewed. Prosecutors said one of those children also disclosed sexual abuse, while testimony from another child helped confirm what investigators described as a pattern of ongoing physical and sexual abuse.
On March 9, Glenn was sentenced to life in prison, with the first 30 years to be served without the possibility of parole.
Energy Assistance Cooling Program to Open April 1 for Eligible Chattooga County Residents
A state-funded energy assistance cooling program will open April 1, 2026, for eligible homebound and elderly residents in Chattooga County, according to North Georgia Community Action, Inc. The program is designed to help qualifying households offset the cost of home energy expenses with a one-time payment made directly to the household’s energy supplier.
Officials say the program is available to elderly households where every member is age 65 or older, as well as homebound households where all members are confined to the home due to medical conditions or disabilities. Applicants must meet income requirements, be responsible for paying their home energy costs, and be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
To apply, residents must call the Community Service Center for their county beginning April 1 at 8:30 a.m. In Chattooga County, residents can contact the local center at 706-857-0729 to get on the assistance list. The program operates on a first-come, first-served basis while funds last, and officials encourage applicants to keep trying if the phone line is busy.
Applicants will be required to provide documentation including a recent heating or electric bill, proof of income, Social Security numbers, proof of citizenship, and valid identification. Elderly households must also provide proof of age for all members of the household.
Officials say the assistance is intended to help vulnerable residents manage energy costs as warmer weather approaches and cooling expenses increase.
Summerville Police Investigating Stolen Vehicle Report
The Summerville Police Department is investigating the reported theft of a vehicle that occurred early March 7 on Alred Street in Summerville.
According to the incident report, officers were dispatched shortly after midnight to the police department to meet with a complainant regarding a stolen 2016 gray Ford Fusion. The vehicle had reportedly been parked at a residence on 33 Alred Street while the owner’s son was visiting a friend.
Police say the vehicle’s driver told officers he arrived at the residence around 10 p.m. and discovered the car missing when he returned around 11:50 p.m. He reportedly told investigators the vehicle had been left unlocked with the key inside, believing nothing would happen to it.
Authorities say several items were inside the vehicle when it was taken, including about $300 in cash, a wallet, a vehicle key, a backpack in the trunk, and Apple AirPods inside the backpack.
Police confirmed the vehicle had not been repossessed, and a BOLO (Be On the Lookout) alert was issued to surrounding agencies while the vehicle information was entered into the statewide database.
The investigation remains ongoing.