Arrest Report - Monday - April 13, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, April 13, 2026:
Fire Danger, Heat To Grip Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia This Week
Chattooga County and the rest of northwest Georgia are expected to remain under elevated fire danger conditions this week as dry air, warm temperatures, and gusty winds continue across the region.
Forecasters say fire weather concerns will persist through the week, with a Red Flag Warning in effect across far north Georgia and fire danger concerns continuing farther south. In northwest Georgia, low humidity, dry vegetation, and limited rainfall are combining to create conditions that could allow fires to start and spread more easily.
Temperatures are also expected to stay well above normal, with highs climbing into the 80s and some areas nearing record territory by midweek. The warm, rain-free pattern is expected to continue for several more days, increasing concerns that drought conditions will worsen across the area.
Winds out of the southwest are expected to increase during the afternoons, with gusts in far north Georgia reaching as high as 20 to 25 miles per hour. Even though some clouds may pass through at times, little to no meaningful rainfall is expected over the next seven days.
Looking ahead, dry and unusually warm weather is expected to remain in place through at least Friday, with only a slight chance of rain possibly approaching northwest Georgia by next weekend. Until then, officials urge residents across Chattooga County and surrounding northwest Georgia communities to avoid outdoor burning and use extreme caution with anything that could spark a fire.
Summerville City Council To Tackle Projects, Spending, And Community Issues This Evening
The Summerville City Council is set to meet this evening with a full agenda that includes financial decisions, infrastructure projects, and several items that could affect the local community.
The meeting begins at 5:00 p.m. and will open with routine business, including the mayor’s comments, announcements, and a proclamation recognizing Arbor Day.
Council members are expected to move through a consent agenda that includes approval of previous meeting minutes and several financial items. Among them is a payment of more than $15,500 for watershed protection and water quality monitoring services, along with more than $23,000 for repairs to a JCB Hydradig.
Also on the consent agenda is approval for Jason Winters to serve as the city’s 2026 voting delegate for the Municipal Gas Authority of Georgia, as well as a request allowing the annual Downtown Runway Show to be held on East Washington Street on Friday, May 1.
Department head reports will follow, including a financial report and comments from City Manager Jason Winters.
Under new business, council members are expected to discuss and possibly take action on several notable items. Among them is awarding a bid for the pavilion at Fairway, authorizing the mayor to sign the Local Emergency Operation Plan, and approving Dr. Kevin Murphy and Mr. Craig Holt as Main Street Board members while administering their oath of office.
Council will also consider financing for recreation projects, a sign request from Akshar Golden LLC doing business as Golden Package at 10707 Commerce Street, and a proposal from Kathy Thornton seeking city approval to submit DCA grant applications for community outreach services.
Another item likely to draw interest is discussion of a dog park at Willow Springs, which could become a future recreational addition for the community.
City leaders are expected to cover a wide range of issues this evening, from public safety planning and recreation improvements to downtown events and community development.
The meeting is open to the public.
AngioScreen Bus Coming To Chattooga Health Fair Could Help Save Lives
The Chattooga Health Fair is coming up, and this year it will include an AngioScreen bus offering important preventative screenings. The screening checks for early warning signs of heart attack and stroke before symptoms ever appear. That is what makes it so important. Many people feel completely normal and go about their daily lives with no idea that a serious health issue could already be developing.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death globally and in the United States, accounting for 1 in every 3 deaths. That reality is one reason events like this matter so much. Simple, free screenings can help detect problems early, giving people a chance to seek treatment before a condition turns into a crisis. The process is quick, painless, and could make a life-saving difference.
The event will also include free food boxes and other helpful services, all available at no cost to the public. The only service requiring sign-up is the mammogram bus, making the rest of the event as accessible and convenient as possible for families across the community.
Anyone who has been putting off a doctor’s visit, dealing with a busy schedule, or assuming they feel fine is encouraged to come anyway. Feeling fine does not always mean everything is okay. Family members, friends, and neighbors are all encouraged to attend and take advantage of the free resources being offered.
This event has the potential to make a real difference. A simple visit to the Chattooga Health Fair could end up being one of the most important things someone does for their health—and it might even save a life.
Blood Tests Reveal Hundreds Of Georgia DUI Suspects Were Actually Sober
A new investigation is raising serious concerns about DUI arrests across Georgia, revealing that hundreds of people charged with driving under the influence were later found to be completely sober.
According to WSB Television, state records show that in 2025 alone, 701 drivers tested by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation had no drugs or alcohol in their system after being arrested on DUI charges.
In many of those cases, drivers had already blown a 0.00 on breathalyzers, but officers still suspected impairment—often based on field sobriety tests—and made arrests anyway.
Critics say those roadside tests were originally designed to detect alcohol impairment, not drugs, and may not be reliable for determining whether someone is under the influence of substances other than alcohol.
Some of those arrested spent time in jail and faced charges before lab results ultimately cleared them. The investigation found that more than 10% of thousands of blood samples tested came back completely clean, raising questions about how DUI cases are being handled across the state.
Experts and former law enforcement officers are now calling for changes, warning that current practices could lead to wrongful arrests and long-term consequences for innocent drivers.
Source: WSB
Tax Season Scams On The Rise As April 15 Deadline Approaches
With the April 15 tax deadline just days away, officials are warning Georgia residents to be on high alert for scams targeting taxpayers during one of the busiest times of the year.
Scammers often ramp up their efforts in the final days leading up to Tax Day, using urgency and fear to trick people into handing over sensitive personal and financial information. Many of these scams are designed to look official, with criminals posing as IRS agents, tax preparers, or even legitimate financial institutions.
One of the most common tactics involves phone calls or emails claiming that a taxpayer owes money and must pay immediately to avoid penalties or arrest. Officials stress that the IRS does not call, text, or email demanding immediate payment or threatening legal action. Any message like that is a major red flag.
Another growing concern is phishing scams, where criminals send emails or texts that appear to be from the IRS or tax software companies. These messages often include links that lead to fake websites designed to steal Social Security numbers, bank information, or login credentials.
Tax-related identity theft is also a serious issue this time of year. In these cases, scammers file fraudulent tax returns using stolen personal information in order to claim refunds before the real taxpayer has a chance to file.
Fake tax preparers are another risk, especially for those looking for last-minute help. Some individuals may promise unusually large refunds or charge fees based on a percentage of the refund—both warning signs of potential fraud.
Experts recommend that taxpayers file as early as possible, use trusted and verified tax professionals, and avoid clicking on suspicious links or responding to unsolicited messages. It is also important to double-check website addresses and ensure any tax-related services are secure and legitimate.
As the deadline approaches, officials say awareness is the best defense. Taking a few extra moments to verify information and recognize common scam tactics could prevent costly mistakes.
With scammers becoming more sophisticated each year, staying cautious during tax season could save both money and personal information from falling into the wrong hands.
Dalton Police Seeking Additional Victims In Lewd Acts Case Involving Summerville Man
The Dalton Police Department says investigators are looking for additional victims after a 21-year-old Chattooga County man was arrested for allegedly performing lewd acts inside his vehicle while watching a jogger.
According to police, the incident happened Tuesday, April 7, along Walnut Avenue and Tibbs Road. Witnesses reported that a man—later identified as Nathaniel Willingham of Summerville—was watching a woman as she ran in the area.
The victim told investigators she noticed the suspect taking photos or videos of her with his phone while parked in a lot on West Walnut Avenue. She continued her run but later saw the same man again along Tibbs Road, where she says he was engaged in the same behavior. When she confronted him, she reported that he was performing a lewd act inside his vehicle.
The woman was able to take a photo of the suspect and his license plate and reported the incident to police the following day.
Using that license plate, investigators were alerted by an automated camera system that the vehicle had returned to Dalton. Officers later conducted a traffic stop, and during their investigation, police say the suspect admitted to performing lewd acts while watching multiple people in the area.
Willingham was arrested and charged with four counts of lewd acts and one count of stalking.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward. Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact Sergeant Matias Castillo at the Dalton Police Department.
Ducky Derby Returns To Summerville With Races, Vendors, And Family Fun
A popular community tradition is making its return to downtown Summerville as the Ducky Derby is set for Saturday, May 9.
The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Summerville Train Depot, featuring a full day of activities for all ages.
The highlight of the day will be the rubber duck race down Summerville Town Creek, scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m. Participants can adopt a duck for a chance to win cash prizes, including a $500 grand prize for the first-place finisher, $250 for second place, and $100 for third.
In addition to the race, the event will include food and craft vendors, live music, kids activities, and a special Jeep Cruise-In. The TVRM Steam Engine 4501 passenger train is also expected to be a featured attraction.
A duck calling contest will be held with prizes awarded in both adult and youth divisions.
Duck adoption tickets are available in advance or on-site, with pricing options including single tickets or discounted bundles.
Organizers say the event is designed to bring the community together for a fun-filled day while supporting local initiatives.
The Ducky Derby is open to the public, and everyone is encouraged to come out and enjoy the festivities in downtown Summerville.
Georgia Families Feeling The Pinch As Health Insurance Costs Continue To Climb
Health insurance costs continue to put pressure on family budgets in Georgia, and even when premiums are not the highest in the country, many households here still feel the strain more sharply than families in other states. Nationally, the average annual premium for employer-sponsored family coverage reached $26,993 in 2025, with workers paying an average of $6,850 of that total out of pocket. At the same time, workers’ wages rose 4% while family premiums rose 6%, meaning insurance costs are still growing faster than paychecks.
For Georgia families, that squeeze can be even harder because household income in the state trails the national figure. Census income data show Georgia’s 2024 median household income was $81,210, compared with $83,730 nationally. When a large monthly premium, deductible, copays, and prescription costs are stacked on top of housing, groceries, transportation, and child care, health coverage can take a bigger bite out of a Georgia paycheck than the national averages alone might suggest.
That reality affects everyday family decisions. A higher insurance bill can mean less room in the budget for savings, school expenses, home repairs, or even routine doctor visits. Even households that do have coverage often face deductibles before insurance fully starts paying, and KFF reports the average deductible among covered workers in a plan with a general annual deductible was $1,886 for single coverage in 2025. For many families, the issue is not just whether they have insurance, but whether they can comfortably afford to use it.
The burden can be especially heavy for self-employed Georgians, who do not have an employer helping cover the premium. Federal health policy analysts say ACA marketplaces created an important source of coverage for people without access to affordable employer plans, including small business owners and self-employed workers, and Treasury data cited by HHS show 3.3 million small business owners and self-employed adults obtained marketplace coverage in 2022. But for many of those workers, the full cost of coverage still comes straight out of household income, making monthly premiums a direct business and family expense at the same time.
Farmers in Georgia face a similar challenge, especially because farming is so often tied to self-employment and irregular income. USDA says most insured Americans get coverage through employers, and farm households are no exception, but it also notes that time demands on the farm can prevent many farmers and ranchers from accessing employer-sponsored insurance through an off-farm job. That leaves many farm families relying on individually purchased coverage or a spouse’s job for insurance, which can become difficult in years when crop prices, livestock markets, or weather conditions squeeze farm income.
Small business owners are also caught in the middle. They have to decide whether they can afford coverage for employees while also paying for their own families’ care. NFIB says the cost of health insurance has been the number one long-term small business problem identified by its members for nearly 40 years, and 98% of small employers offering coverage say they are concerned that the cost will become unsustainable in the next five to 10 years. Georgia does offer SHOP coverage for small businesses with up to 50 employees, and some may qualify for a federal tax credit, but the challenge remains steep enough that many owners still see insurance as one of their biggest cost pressures.
The broader backdrop is that Georgia still has a relatively high uninsured rate. America’s Health Rankings, using 2024 Census data, puts Georgia’s uninsured rate at 12.0%, and Census reporting shows uninsured rates rose in many states between 2023 and 2024. When coverage is expensive or hard to obtain, more families are left exposed to the risk of large medical bills, and even insured families may delay care because of what it will cost.
The bottom line for Georgia is that health insurance is not just a healthcare issue. It is a kitchen-table budget issue. For working families, the self-employed, farmers, and small business owners, the rising cost of coverage can shape everything from hiring decisions to grocery spending to whether someone goes to the doctor at all.
Dry, Warm Forecast Expected To Worsen Drought Conditions In Northwest Georgia
This week’s forecast for Northwest Georgia is raising concerns as continued dry and unusually warm conditions are expected to prolong—and potentially worsen—ongoing drought conditions across the region.
The extended outlook shows very warm temperatures and little to no meaningful rainfall over the next week, a pattern that is especially problematic given how dry the area already is. Much of Georgia is currently experiencing drought, with some areas classified in severe conditions.
Meteorologists say the combination of above-normal temperatures and limited precipitation is a key driver in worsening drought conditions. Long-range outlooks from the Climate Prediction Center continue to favor warmer-than-average weather across the Southeast, including Georgia, through mid-April.
That kind of pattern allows soil moisture to evaporate more quickly while offering little opportunity for replenishment.
In North Georgia, this is already translating into elevated fire danger, with dry vegetation and low humidity creating conditions that can allow wildfires to spread more easily. The National Weather Service has indicated an above-normal wildfire risk for the region through the spring months.
Experts say the lack of steady, soaking rainfall—not just isolated showers—is what’s needed to meaningfully improve drought conditions. Without it, water levels in streams, soil moisture, and overall environmental health will continue to decline.
With no significant rain in the near-term forecast, Northwest Georgia is likely to see drought conditions persist or even intensify in the coming weeks.
Arrest Report - Sunday - April 12, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, April 12, 2026:
Red Flag Warning Issued As Fire Danger Rises Across Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
High fire danger conditions are expected to return across Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia today as very warm, dry weather continues to grip the region.
A Red Flag Warning has been issued for far north Georgia, including areas near Chattooga County, from noon through 8:00 p.m. Sunday. Officials say a combination of low humidity, dry vegetation, and breezy winds will create conditions where fires can start easily and spread quickly.
Forecasters say temperatures will climb well above normal, reaching into the mid to upper 80s across North Georgia—more than 10 degrees above average for this time of year. At the same time, humidity levels are expected to drop into the 20 to 25 percent range, significantly increasing wildfire risk.
Winds will also play a role, with gusts up to 15 to 25 miles per hour possible in higher elevations, further fueling fire danger throughout the afternoon and evening hours.
While conditions may improve slightly on Monday as humidity levels rise, the overall pattern remains concerning. A strong high-pressure system is expected to keep warm and dry weather locked in across the region for at least the next week, with little to no meaningful rainfall in sight.
Meteorologists say rain chances will remain below 10 percent through much of the upcoming week, meaning drought conditions across Northwest Georgia—including Chattooga County—are likely to worsen.
Looking ahead, temperatures could climb even higher by mid to late week, with some areas approaching record highs in the upper 80s to low 90s. That would put temperatures as much as 15 to 20 degrees above normal.
Emergency officials are urging residents to avoid outdoor burning and to use extreme caution with anything that could spark a fire. Even small flames can quickly get out of control under these conditions.
With dry weather expected to persist and no significant rainfall on the horizon, fire danger will remain a major concern across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia in the days ahead.
Chattooga County TANF Job Opening Offers Temporary State Work Opportunity
A job opening in Chattooga County is now being advertised through the Georgia Department of Human Services, but officials say applicants should understand this is not a standard public job posting.
The position is for an Eligibility Associate and is connected to the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or TANF, subsidized employment program. That means the opening is intended for people who meet certain household and income requirements under TANF guidelines.
According to the job posting, applicants must have at least one child under the age of 18 living in the home and must meet income limits to qualify. A person does not necessarily have to already be receiving TANF benefits, but they do have to meet the program’s eligibility rules in order to be considered for the position.
The job involves office and customer service duties, including helping residents with applications for public assistance, answering phones, handling paperwork, and entering information into computer systems. The role is designed to provide work experience and job training while helping support services for local families.
Officials also note the position is temporary and may last up to 24 months. While it can offer valuable experience and may help someone build a path toward future employment, it is considered more of a stepping stone opportunity than a permanent long-term state job.
Those interested in applying must do so online through the Georgia Department of Human Services hiring portal. Applicants can find the posting by visiting the state careers page on GovernmentJobs.com and searching for “Eligibility Associate TANF Subsidized Program – Chattooga County.” The online listing includes the full job description, qualification details, and application instructions.
Because the opening is tied to TANF program requirements, anyone considering applying is encouraged to review the eligibility rules carefully before submitting an application.
Find more information HERE
Urgent Plea Issued For Senior Dog At Chattooga County Shelter
An urgent call for help is going out from volunteers supporting the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, as a senior dog struggles to adjust after being surrendered.
The dog, named Billy, is described as a senior female who is having a difficult time coping inside the shelter environment. Volunteers say she is “shutting down,” a term often used when older animals become withdrawn, stressed, and at risk due to the noise and unfamiliar surroundings.
Supporters are asking the community to step in quickly, either by adopting or fostering, to give Billy a more comfortable and stable environment.
The shelter, located on Red Oak Drive in Summerville, is encouraging residents to consider opening their homes, especially for older animals that are often overlooked but known for being calm, affectionate companions.
Officials say time is critical in situations like this, as senior dogs can decline quickly under stress.
Anyone interested in helping can contact Chattooga County Animal Control directly or visit during regular hours. An adoption event is also scheduled for April 18.
Rising Costs Forcing Families To Rethink Summer Vacation Plans
As summer approaches, many families across Georgia are reworking their vacation plans as rising costs continue to strain household budgets.
From higher gas prices to increased costs for hotels, flights, and food, traveling has become more expensive compared to recent years. For many families, that means scaling back trips, shortening vacations, or choosing destinations closer to home.
Financial experts say families are becoming more strategic, setting strict budgets and looking for deals earlier than usual. Some are opting for staycations or day trips instead of longer, more costly getaways. Others are prioritizing free or low-cost activities like state parks, local attractions, and outdoor recreation.
Parents say balancing the desire to make summer memories with financial realities has become more challenging. Many are cutting back in other areas or spreading out payments over time to make trips possible.
Despite the challenges, travel demand remains steady, showing that families still value time away together—even if it looks a little different this year.
Experts recommend planning ahead, comparing prices, and setting realistic expectations to avoid overspending during the busy summer season.
Fertilizer Price Spike Creating Challenges For Georgia Farmers This Spring
As spring planting season gets underway, farmers across Georgia—including those in Northwest Georgia—are facing rising costs that are putting pressure on already tight budgets.
Fertilizer, one of the most essential inputs for growing crops like corn, hay, and vegetables, has seen significant price increases in recent months. Industry reports show some fertilizer prices have jumped sharply, with global supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions playing a major role. In some cases, prices have risen by around 30 percent compared to earlier levels.
Experts say the issue is being driven by several factors, including international conflicts affecting fertilizer shipments, export restrictions from major producing countries, and higher energy costs. Since fertilizer production depends heavily on natural gas and global supply chains, any disruption can quickly drive prices higher.
For Georgia farmers, spring is a critical time. This is when nutrients are applied to fields to prepare for planting, and skipping or reducing fertilizer use is not an easy option. In fact, fertilizer can account for a large portion of production costs—sometimes up to 40 percent for certain crops.
That leaves many farmers in a difficult position: pay higher prices or risk lower crop yields later in the season.
Some producers are adjusting by cutting back on fertilizer use, switching to crops that require fewer nutrients, or trying to lock in prices early when possible. Others are simply absorbing the higher costs and hoping for a strong harvest to offset expenses.
The situation is adding to broader concerns in agriculture, as many farmers are already dealing with low crop prices, dry conditions, and rising fuel costs. Analysts warn that continued high input costs could impact not only farm profitability but also food prices down the line.
With little relief expected in the short term, Georgia farmers are heading into the 2026 growing season facing uncertainty—and tough financial decisions.
Sources: GNN / WZB / Agrolatem / CME Group
Heavy Pollen Continues To Blanket Chattooga County
Spring allergy season is in full force across Northwest Georgia, with high pollen levels continuing to impact residents in Chattooga County.
Tree pollen remains the biggest culprit this time of year, with oak, pine, and birch contributing to the thick yellow dust seen coating cars, roads, and outdoor surfaces. Dry weather and breezy conditions have only made matters worse, allowing pollen to spread easily throughout the area.
Local residents are reporting increased allergy symptoms, including sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and scratchy throats. Health experts say conditions are especially tough right now because the region has seen very little rainfall, which normally helps wash pollen out of the air.
With warm temperatures expected to continue, pollen counts are likely to stay elevated in the coming days. Typically, levels remain highest during the morning hours and on dry, windy afternoons.
Doctors recommend limiting time outdoors when pollen counts are high, keeping windows closed, and using air conditioning when possible. Showering after spending time outside and changing clothes can also help reduce exposure.
Relief may not come anytime soon, as the ongoing dry pattern means pollen will continue to build without significant rain to clear it away.
Georgia Gardening Icon Walter Reeves Dies At 74
A well-known voice and trusted expert in Georgia gardening has passed away. Walter Reeves, often referred to as “The Georgia Gardener,” has died at the age of 74.
Reeves spent decades sharing gardening advice across radio, television, and print, becoming a household name for gardeners across the Southeast. He was best known for his long-running Saturday morning show on WSB Radio, where he offered practical, easy-to-understand tips to listeners for more than 25 years.
He also wrote a weekly gardening column for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution for many years and hosted a Georgia Public Broadcasting show, helping educate generations of gardeners on everything from lawn care to planting techniques.
Reeves died Friday after battling Parkinson’s disease, according to reports.
Colleagues and listeners remember him for his approachable style and ability to simplify gardening for everyday people. One longtime radio executive described him as someone who made listeners feel comfortable and confident tackling their own yards and gardens.
Reeves’ influence extended beyond broadcasting. A University of Georgia Extension agent for years, he also authored multiple gardening books and was widely respected for his deep knowledge of Southern growing conditions.
His legacy lives on through decades of advice that helped countless Georgians grow healthier lawns, gardens, and landscapes.
Summerville City Council To Consider Recreation Projects, Pavilion Bid, And Dog Park Discussion
The Summerville City Council is set to meet Monday, April 13 at 5:00 PM, with several key items on the agenda impacting the community.
Among the highlights, council members will consider awarding a bid for the pavilion project at Fairway and discuss approval of financing for recreation projects. Officials will also take up a proposal to authorize the mayor to sign the city’s Local Emergency Operation Plan.
In new business, the council is expected to review a request to approve a sign for Golden Package located on Commerce Street, as well as consider submitting grant applications for community outreach services.
Additionally, there will be discussion surrounding the potential development of a dog park at Willow Springs.
The meeting will also include department head reports, including a financial update from City Manager Jason Winters.
On the consent agenda, council members are expected to approve meeting minutes, payments related to watershed protection and equipment repairs, and recognize appointments to the Municipal Gas Authority of Georgia.
The meeting will take place at Summerville City Hall and is open to the public.
Georgia Officials Warn Of DDS Text Scam Targeting Drivers
Georgia officials are warning residents to be on alert after a wave of scam text messages claiming to come from the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).
According to state officials, the messages typically claim you have an unpaid traffic ticket or violation and threaten serious consequences like license suspension if you don’t act quickly. The texts often include a link directing recipients to a fake website where they are asked to submit payment or personal information.
Authorities say these messages are fraudulent and are part of a growing “smishing” scam, where criminals use text messages to trick people into giving up sensitive information like credit card numbers or personal details.
Officials stress an important point: the Georgia Department of Driver Services does not send text messages demanding payment or personal information. Any legitimate notice about your driver’s license status will come through official channels, such as mailed documents or by checking your account directly on the DDS website.
The scam messages are designed to create urgency, often warning of fines, legal action, or suspension of driving privileges. In reality, clicking the link can lead to identity theft or unauthorized charges.
Officials urge residents who receive these messages to:
- Do not click any links
- Do not respond or provide information
- Delete the message immediately
- Check your license status only through the official DDS website
Anyone concerned about a possible ticket or license issue should go directly to the official Georgia DDS site rather than using links sent via text.
Authorities say staying cautious and verifying information through official sources is the best way to avoid falling victim to these scams.