Arrest Report - Monday - May 25, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, May 25, 2026:
Heavy Rain, Flooding Threat Continues Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia This Week
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for several more days of wet and stormy weather as an unsettled weather pattern remains locked over the region through much of the upcoming week.
The National Weather Service says widespread showers and thunderstorms are expected daily, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. A Flood Watch remains in effect through late tonight for much of north Georgia northwest of Interstate 85, including Northwest Georgia counties where heavy rainfall could quickly lead to flash flooding.
Forecasters say deep tropical moisture moving north from the Gulf of Mexico continues to fuel repeated rounds of storms. Some areas in north Georgia have already received between 5 and 8 inches of rain over the past few days, and additional heavy rainfall could bring another 2 to 3 inches in localized spots where storms repeatedly move over the same area.
Low-lying areas, creeks, poor drainage locations, and flood-prone roadways in Chattooga County and surrounding communities could see flooding issues if heavier storms develop.
While the overall severe weather threat remains somewhat limited, a few stronger storms could still produce damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning, and small hail during the afternoon and evening hours.
Forecasters say the pattern is expected to continue through the remainder of the week as a stalled weather setup keeps Northwest Georgia trapped between high pressure off the Atlantic coast and a slow-moving upper-level disturbance over the southern Plains.
Temperatures are expected to remain seasonable with highs mainly in the mid-80s and overnight lows in the mid-60s.
Motorists are urged to use caution during heavy rainfall and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
Memorial Day Observed Across Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
Today is Memorial Day, a federal holiday dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women of the United States Armed Forces who gave their lives while serving our country.
Originally known as Decoration Day following the Civil War, the holiday began in the late 1860s as communities gathered to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags. Over time, the observance expanded to honor all American military personnel who died in service to the nation. Memorial Day became an official federal holiday in 1971 and is observed each year on the last Monday in May.
In observance of the holiday, federal, state, and local government offices are closed today, including Chattooga County government offices, the City of Summerville, the City of Menlo, the Town of Trion, and the Town of Lyerly. Banks and post offices are also closed for the Memorial Day holiday.
Chattooga County officials say county dump sites and the transfer station will remain open and operate on their regular schedules today.
Transit services, administrative offices, and several other county departments are closed for the holiday and will reopen during normal business hours on Tuesday.
Officials remind residents that for emergencies or situations requiring crew dispatch, residents should call 911.
Swimming Safety Important As Summer Begins Across Chattooga County
With school out for the summer and warmer temperatures arriving across Northwest Georgia, swimming safety is an important reminder for local families.
Chattooga County does not currently have public swimming pools available, which means many residents either travel outside the county to swim in a pool or turn to local rivers, creeks, lakes, and swimming holes to cool off.
Safety officials say swimming in natural waterways is very different from swimming in a controlled pool environment. Rivers and creeks can have strong currents, hidden drop-offs, slippery rocks, underwater debris, and sudden changes in depth. Water conditions can also change quickly after heavy rainfall.
Unlike a swimming pool, natural water is often murky, making it harder to see rocks, stumps, tree limbs, fishing line, or uneven bottoms beneath the surface. Officials warn swimmers never to dive into unfamiliar water.
Children should always be closely supervised around any body of water, and life jackets are strongly recommended for young children, weaker swimmers, and anyone near deep or moving water.
Swimmers should also stay away from dams, spillways, and fast-moving water. During summer storms, everyone should leave the water immediately if thunder or lightning develops nearby.
Officials say families can still enjoy Chattooga County’s natural waterways this summer by staying alert, swimming with a buddy, using proper safety gear, and understanding that rivers, creeks, and lakes carry risks that swimming pools do not.
Rising Gas Prices Creating Financial Strain For Chattooga County Commuters
High gasoline prices are continuing to put financial pressure on thousands of Chattooga County residents who travel outside the county each day for work.
Statistics show that approximately 3,600 to 4,000 Chattooga County residents — nearly 40 percent of the local workforce — commute to jobs outside the county. Many workers travel daily to neighboring Floyd County, including Rome, or to Walker County and other Northwest Georgia communities for employment opportunities.
With average commute times around 28 minutes one-way, many local workers are now spending significantly more on fuel each month as gas prices remain elevated heading into the busy summer travel season.
For residents making the daily drive to Rome, Dalton, Lafayette, Chattanooga, or surrounding areas, the rising cost of gasoline is becoming a growing burden on household budgets already stretched by inflation and higher food, utility, and housing costs.
Workers with longer commutes or larger vehicles say weekly fuel expenses can quickly add up, especially for families with multiple commuters in the household. Some residents report spending hundreds of dollars each month just to get to and from work.
The impact is particularly noticeable in rural counties like Chattooga, where public transportation options are limited and many residents rely entirely on personal vehicles for employment, medical appointments, shopping, and other daily needs.
Economic experts say rural commuters often feel the effects of rising gas prices more sharply because they typically travel greater distances for jobs and services than residents in larger metropolitan areas.
Despite the challenges, many Chattooga County residents continue commuting outside the county because of limited local employment opportunities and higher-paying jobs available in surrounding communities.
Drought Conditions Continue Across Chattooga County Despite Holiday Rain Chances
Despite several rounds of rainfall across Northwest Georgia in recent days, drought conditions continue to persist in Chattooga County, according to weather officials and drought monitoring data.
Today, Memorial Day — Monday, May 25, 2026 — the forecast is calling for an 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms across Chattooga County and surrounding areas. Forecasters warn that periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms could disrupt outdoor holiday celebrations, cookouts, ceremonies, and travel plans throughout the day.
Even with additional rainfall expected, meteorologists say the recent precipitation has provided only limited relief and has not been enough to erase the significant rainfall deficit that has developed over the past several months.
Officials say much of the rain has only temporarily dampened the surface while deeper soil moisture levels remain critically low in many locations. Streams, creeks, and other waterways in parts of Northwest Georgia also continue running below normal levels for this time of year.
Dry conditions across the region continue to create elevated wildfire concerns despite the recent wet weather pattern. Forestry officials say vegetation and forest fuels remain dry enough in some areas to support fire growth when conditions briefly dry out between rain events.
Residents are encouraged to continue using caution with outdoor burning, campfires, fireworks, grills, and equipment that could accidentally spark a wildfire. Officials also recommend monitoring local burn advisories and fire danger statements as weather conditions change throughout the week.
Forecasters say the weather pattern this week will remain active, with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms continuing across Northwest Georgia. While the additional rainfall may gradually improve conditions in some areas, experts caution that it will likely take an extended period of above-normal rainfall to completely eliminate the ongoing drought conditions affecting Chattooga County.
Chattooga Library Hosting Family Bingo Event June 4
Families looking for a fun summer activity can take part in a Family Bingo event next month at the Chattooga Library in Summerville.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, June 4, 2026, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Chattooga Library located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville.
According to organizers with the Sara Hightower Regional Library System, the activity is designed for all ages and participants will have the opportunity to compete for prizes during the evening.
The event is open to the public, and organizers say families, children, and community members are encouraged to attend.
For more information, contact the Chattooga Library at 706-857-2553.
Northwest Georgia Guard Units Dispatched To Support Washington, D.C. Mission
Governor Brian Kemp has authorized the deployment of Georgia National Guard units, including troops from Northwest Georgia, to Washington, D.C., as part of an extended public safety support mission continuing through the end of 2026.
According to information released about the operation, units from armories in Calhoun, Canton, Cedartown, and Dalton are among those supporting Joint Task Force–District of Columbia, known as JTF-DC.
The mission was originally authorized in late 2025 and has now been extended through December 31, 2026.
Georgia National Guard members are assisting with public safety operations in the nation’s capital by providing a visible security presence and supporting law enforcement through logistical, administrative, and medical assistance.
Officials say Georgia Guard soldiers were recently involved in assisting Washington, D.C. authorities during a Metro system theft and assault incident, where Guardsmen reportedly provided immediate medical aid and helped local police at the scene.
Governor Kemp’s office says the deployment is part of ongoing coordination efforts to help maintain safety and support law enforcement operations in the District of Columbia.
SBA Drought Disaster Loans Available For Chattooga County Businesses
Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available for eligible small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Chattooga County affected by ongoing drought conditions.
The U.S. Small Business Administration announced a disaster declaration on May 18, 2026, for Chattooga County and surrounding areas. The declaration is intended to help offset economic losses caused by drought conditions that began February 17, 2026.
The loans are Economic Injury Disaster Loans, or EIDLs, which provide working capital to help businesses meet ordinary financial obligations they may not be able to cover because of the drought.
Eligible applicants include small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small aquaculture businesses, and most private nonprofit organizations. Agricultural producers, farmers, and ranchers are not eligible for SBA disaster loans, but may qualify for assistance through the USDA.
Interest rates are capped at 4 percent for small businesses and 3.625 percent for private nonprofits, with terms available up to 30 years.
The deadline to apply for economic injury assistance is January 4, 2027.
Businesses may apply online through the SBA Disaster Loan Portal, by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, or by emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
Summerville Man Arrested On DUI Charge In Rome
A Summerville man was arrested by the Georgia State Patrol over the weekend on a charge of driving under the influence.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 34-year-old Kevante Lamar Baldwin of Turner Street in Summerville was taken into custody Saturday following a traffic stop in the area of North Second Avenue and West Third Street in Rome.
Arrest reports indicate Baldwin was charged with DUI after authorities determined he was over the legal limit for alcohol.
Baldwin was later released from custody after posting bond.
Arrest Report - Sunday - March 24, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, March 24, 2026:
Unsettled Weather Pattern To Bring Heavy Rain, Storms
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for several days of unsettled weather as a persistent summer-like pattern brings widespread showers and thunderstorms through much of the upcoming week.
Forecasters say periods of heavy rainfall are expected daily, raising the threat for localized flash flooding, especially in low-lying and poor drainage areas. Storms may repeatedly move across the same locations, increasing rainfall totals in some communities.
A few storms could also become strong to severe at times, with damaging wind gusts being the primary concern. Meteorologists say the combination of very humid air, daytime heating, and abundant moisture in the atmosphere will help fuel storm development each afternoon and evening.
Memorial Day outdoor plans could be impacted as thunderstorms are expected to increase during the afternoon hours. Officials recommend having an indoor backup plan and staying alert for changing weather conditions.
The wet pattern is expected to continue through much of the week, with temperatures remaining warm and humid. Highs will generally stay in the 80s, while overnight lows remain muggy in the upper 60s and lower 70s.
Forecasters say there are early indications the pattern could begin to shift by next weekend, though confidence remains low at this time.
Chattooga County Expands Redevelopment Area Boundaries
Chattooga County has expanded the boundaries of its Urban Redevelopment Area, adding new parcels of land to the county’s long-running revitalization initiative.
According to county records, the update was approved through a formal resolution signed by the county commissioner. The amendment adds additional parcels in the northern section of the existing redevelopment zone and updates the county’s official redevelopment map.
County officials say the move is intended to support economic development, encourage housing opportunities, and improve the overall quality of life for residents. Leaders also say the expansion creates a more cohesive redevelopment footprint and provides greater flexibility for future planning and investment efforts.
While no specific projects tied to the newly added parcels have been announced, officials say the changes are designed to help position the county for long-term growth and future redevelopment opportunities.
The amendment reportedly took effect immediately upon adoption and is now part of the county’s official redevelopment framework.
Bethlehem, Georgia Man Arrested In Rome On Obscene Internet Contact Charges
A 54-year-old Bethlehem, Georgia man was arrested in Rome after investigators say he sent obscene photos and messages to an undercover officer posing as a 14-year-old female.
According to reports, Kenneth Stephens Ray allegedly communicated with the undercover officer by text message on April 28 and April 29, 2026, believing he was speaking with a minor. Authorities say the messages included obscene images and sexually explicit comments.
Ray is charged with two counts of furnishing obscene materials to a minor and one count of obscene internet contact with a minor.
Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day: Knowing The Difference
As Memorial Day approaches, many Americans pause to honor the nation’s military heroes — but it’s important to understand the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
Memorial Day, observed each May, is dedicated to remembering the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It is a solemn day of remembrance for those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country.
Veterans Day, observed each November, honors all military veterans who have served in the Armed Forces, whether during wartime or peacetime.
Veterans organizations often remind the public that while veterans appreciate support and gratitude, Memorial Day is specifically meant to honor fallen service members and reflect on their sacrifice.
GNTC Welding Program Sees Strong Job Placement And High Starting Salaries
Georgia Northwestern Technical College says its Welding and Joining Technology program continues to be one of the school’s most in-demand programs, with graduates seeing strong job placement rates and high starting wages.
GNTC instructors say the program appeals to students who enjoy building and creating with their hands while preparing for careers in a field that remains in high demand across Northwest Georgia and beyond.
The college offers Welding courses at campuses in Rome, Cedartown, Rock Spring and Dalton. Students in the program learn several types of welding techniques, along with blueprint reading, fabrication, safety, pipe welding and structural welding.
Program Director Jeremiah Cooper said more than 300 students have been placed into industry jobs since 2015, with employers frequently contacting GNTC directly looking for graduates or students nearing completion of the program. Area companies hiring welders include Astec, Komatsu, Miller Industries, Scenic City Mechanical and Textron.
According to GNTC officials, most graduates last year earned starting salaries between $55,000 and $65,000 annually, while some graduates reported starting pay between $23 and $28 per hour with overtime opportunities available.
Instructors say the need for skilled welders continues to grow, and graduates have gone on to careers ranging from welding and fabrication to maintenance, plumbing, machining and welding inspection.
GNTC says welding remains one of the Technical College System of Georgia’s designated High Demand Career Initiative fields because of strong wages and workforce demand.
NWGA Rising Stars Elite Bringing Summer Adult Basketball Tournament To Summerville
Northwest Georgia Rising Stars Elite is set to host its biggest adult basketball tournament this summer at the Summerville Recreation Center.
The tournament, organized by Jay Shropshire, will take place on four Saturdays — July 11, July 18, July 25, and August 1. Teams will compete in a double-elimination format.
Entry fees are set at $500 per team, with games featuring two 18-minute halves and a running clock except during the final two minutes. The tournament is open to players age 18 and older.
Organizers say all participants must sign a waiver, and a $3,000 prize will be awarded to the winning team. Admission for spectators will be $5 for adults and $2 for children, with concessions available onsite.
Teams interested in participating must submit entry fees by June 30 to secure a spot, as only 10 teams will be accepted.
For additional information or registration details, organizers say interested teams can contact Jay Shropshire directly.
Summerville Joins Statewide Effort Supporting Sovereign Immunity Protections
The Summerville City Council has approved joining other Georgia municipalities in supporting legal efforts aimed at protecting sovereign immunity protections for cities across the state.
During a recent meeting, council members authorized Mayor Ricky Hughes to sign a resolution allowing Summerville to participate in an amicus court brief in the case of Georgia Municipal Association vs. Olivia Adams. The case continues through the Georgia court system and could have major implications for municipalities statewide.
According to discussion presented to the council, the case involves a motor vehicle collision in Milton, Georgia. Court proceedings have centered on whether sovereign immunity protections apply in certain personal injury claims involving municipal employees.
Supporters of the effort argue that weakening sovereign immunity protections could expose cities to increased lawsuits and financial liability. City officials said the issue carries statewide importance and could affect how local governments operate in the future.
Summerville joins a growing number of Georgia cities participating in the legal challenge.
Trion Town Council Meeting Set For Thursday
The Town of Trion will hold a regular workshop and council meeting on Thursday, May 28, 2026, in the Town Hall Conference Room.
The workshop will begin at 6:00 p.m., with the regular council meeting to follow shortly afterward.
Mayor Mickey D. McGraw said anyone with questions or comments may contact him or the Town Hall Office for more information.
Spots Still Available For Chattooga County Food Preservation Workshops
Chattooga County Extension Agent Rebecca Thomas says there are still spots available for several upcoming food preservation workshops being offered through the Chattooga County Extension Office.
The hands-on classes will cover a variety of food preservation topics throughout the summer and early fall, including jams and jellies, canning tomatoes and salsa, cowboy candy, and pickled okra.
Each workshop costs $25 per class, and attendance is limited to 15 participants. Officials say payment is required to secure registration.
Upcoming workshop dates include:
- Jams & Jellies — June 2 from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.
- Canning Tomatoes & Salsa — July 1 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.
- Cowboy Candy — August 4 from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.
- Pickled Okra — September 24 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.
All workshops will be held at the Chattooga County Extension Office located at 40 Middle School Road in Summerville.
For registration information, call 706-857-0744.