Arrest Report - Sunday - June 21, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, June 21, 2026:
Hot and Humid Pattern Continues Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia
Low clouds and patchy fog early Sunday morning are expected to gradually clear, giving way to another warm and muggy day across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia. Afternoon temperatures will climb into the upper 80s and lower 90s, while high humidity levels will push heat index values into the mid and upper 90s.
A few isolated to scattered thunderstorms are possible Sunday afternoon and evening. While most locations will remain dry, any storms that develop could produce gusty winds, frequent lightning, and heavy downpours.
Monday will bring increasing humidity and a more active weather pattern. Morning clouds and a few light showers may linger before sunshine returns by late morning. Temperatures will once again reach the upper 80s to lower 90s, with heat index values approaching 100 degrees in some areas.
Attention then turns to Monday afternoon and evening, when scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop across Northwest Georgia. Forecasters are also monitoring the potential for a line of strong to severe storms to move into the region during the evening as a cold front approaches from the north. Damaging wind gusts will be the primary threat, although localized flooding could occur where storms repeatedly track over the same area.
The front is expected to stall south of the area, keeping moisture in place through much of the upcoming week. As a result, daily chances for afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms will continue from Tuesday through Saturday.
Temperatures will remain seasonably warm, with daytime highs generally in the mid-80s to around 90 degrees and overnight lows in the upper 60s and lower 70s. While the highest heat index values are expected farther south in Central Georgia, Northwest Georgia will continue to experience hot and humid conditions throughout the week.
Residents should stay alert for changing weather conditions each afternoon, especially Monday evening when the risk for stronger storms will be greatest.
Homemade Ice Cream Sale Planned At James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park
Ice cream lovers will have a chance to cool off and support a local organization later this month at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park.
The Friends of Sloppy Floyd State Park will host a Homemade Ice Cream Sale on Sunday, June 28, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. near the park’s Visitor Center.
Volunteers will offer a variety of homemade ice cream flavors, giving visitors plenty of options to choose from. Ice cream will be available for $3 per cup, and both cash and card payments will be accepted.
Organizers say the event is a great opportunity for families and visitors to enjoy a summer treat while spending time at one of Northwest Georgia’s most scenic state parks.
A Georgia State Parks parking pass is required for entry. Visitors must have either a $10 daily ParkPass or an annual pass to park at the facility.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park is located in Chattooga County and is known for its beautiful mountain scenery, fishing lakes, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
The event is open to the public.
Chattooga Library To Host Live Animal Show For Summer Program
Children and families will have an opportunity to experience an up-close wildlife encounter later this month as the Sara Hightower Regional Library System welcomes Animal Adventures of Georgia to Summerville.
The event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, at 2 p.m. at the Chattooga County Library, located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville.
Animal Adventures of Georgia is a mobile wildlife education company based in Newnan that specializes in bringing live animal programs to schools, libraries, festivals, and community events across the state. The organization is known for its interactive presentations featuring a variety of animals while teaching participants about wildlife, habitats, conservation, and nature.
Library officials describe the program as an interactive and educational live animal nature show designed to engage children and adults alike through hands-on learning experiences.
The event is free and open to the public and is part of the library’s ongoing summer programming.
Families are encouraged to arrive early for what promises to be a fun and educational afternoon featuring live animals and opportunities to learn more about the natural world.
Stars & Stripes At The Depot Planned For July 4 In Summerville
Families are invited to celebrate Independence Day with a patriotic community gathering at the Summerville Train Depot on Saturday, July 4.
The City of Summerville will host “Stars & Stripes At The Depot” from noon until 3 p.m. at the historic depot in downtown Summerville.
The event is being held as part of the nation’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary and will feature free sliced watermelon, patriotic music, and appearances by Uncle Sam. Organizers also announced that the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s passenger train, pulled by steam locomotive No. 4501, is expected to arrive during the event.
Visitors will also have an opportunity to see the Summerville Turntable in operation.
City officials encourage residents and visitors to bring their families and enjoy an afternoon of patriotic fun, local history, and community fellowship as the nation marks a significant milestone in its history.
The event is free and open to the public.
Georgia Lawmakers Advance Bill To Delay Ballot QR Code Changes Until 2028
Georgia lawmakers have taken the first major step toward resolving a voting system issue that threatened to complicate the state’s upcoming elections.
The Georgia Senate Ethics Committee voted 8-4 along party lines Thursday to advance legislation that would extend the deadline for removing QR codes from Georgia ballots until 2028. The measure was sponsored by Sen. Max Burns, a Republican from Sylvania.
Under current state law, QR codes used to tabulate votes on Georgia’s ballot-marking devices must be eliminated by July 1, 2026. However, lawmakers have not approved the estimated $66 million needed to modify or replace the equipment currently used statewide.
Georgia’s voting system, purchased from Dominion Voting Systems for approximately $107 million, was first used during the 2020 election. While supporters say the technology provides a secure and accessible voting process, critics have argued that ballots should be counted using text that voters can easily read and verify without relying on QR codes.
The proposed legislation would postpone the transition until before the 2028 presidential election and create a special committee to establish standards for Georgia’s next voting system. The committee would include appointees from the governor’s office and both legislative chambers.
One significant provision in the bill would shift authority over selecting future voting equipment away from the secretary of state’s office and place greater control in the hands of state lawmakers.
Democratic lawmakers raised concerns that the proposal does not guarantee representation for the minority party on the committee that would help determine the state’s future election system.
Local election officials have largely welcomed the legislation, saying it provides needed clarity after uncertainty surrounding how elections would be conducted once the current July 1 deadline arrived.
The full Georgia Senate is expected to consider the measure during Saturday’s special legislative session.
DNR Says Invasive Tegu Lizards Can Be Killed On Sight In Georgia
Georgia wildlife officials are asking residents to be on the lookout for a large invasive lizard that poses a threat to native wildlife.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources says Argentine black-and-white tegus have been documented in parts of the state, including Toombs and Tattnall counties, with additional sightings reported in other areas of Georgia.
Tegus are native to South America and can grow up to four feet long and weigh more than 10 pounds. Wildlife officials say the reptiles are strong swimmers, can stay underwater for extended periods, and can survive Georgia winters by entering a hibernation-like state known as brumation.
The DNR says the lizards are a concern because they eat a wide variety of food, including eggs from ground-nesting birds such as quail and wild turkeys. They may also prey on young gopher tortoises and alligators, along with small animals, fruits, vegetables, pet food, and carrion.
Because Argentine black-and-white tegus are not native to Georgia, they are not protected under state wildlife laws. The DNR says residents may legally trap or humanely kill tegus year-round on private property with the landowner’s permission, as long as local ordinances and safety rules are followed.
Residents who see a tegu are encouraged to take a photo if it can be done safely and report the sighting to wildlife officials. The DNR also recommends keeping pet food indoors, securing possible food sources, and removing brush piles or other shelter areas where the reptiles could hide.
Female tegus can lay around 35 eggs each year, making early detection and removal important in preventing the species from spreading further in Georgia.
Georgia Methodist Conferences Move Toward Historic Merger
Methodist churches in North Georgia and South Georgia have taken a major step toward forming one statewide conference.
The North Georgia Annual Conference approved a proposal this week to merge with the South Georgia Annual Conference, voting 96 percent to 4 percent in favor of the plan during its annual meeting in Athens. Earlier this month, the South Georgia Annual Conference also approved the same Unification Plan, with 96.6 percent voting in favor.
The proposal would create the Georgia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, bringing both conferences together under one statewide structure.
Church leaders say the vote marks an important step, but the merger is not yet final. The Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference must still decide whether to hold a special virtual session in August 2026 to consider the proposal.
If approved, Bishop Robin Dease would call a joint special session of both annual conferences in September to help prepare for the transition. Under the current proposal, the new Georgia Annual Conference would officially begin on January 1, 2027.
A worship and celebration service is planned for January 2027, with the first session of the newly unified Georgia Annual Conference scheduled for June 2027 in Athens.
Low-Cost Spay And Neuter Assistance Available For Chattooga County Pet Owners
Animal Advocates of Chattooga County has announced a new partnership with My Kids Have Paws Veterinary Clinic to help local pet owners offset the cost of spay and neuter procedures for their dogs and cats.
Under the program, financial assistance is available for Chattooga County residents while funding remains available. Surgeries will be performed at My Kids Have Paws Veterinary Clinic in Dalton.
Pet owners must contact My Kids Have Paws directly to schedule an appointment. Animal Advocates of Chattooga County is not able to schedule appointments for the program. Residents are also asked to notify the clinic if their pet is pregnant when making an appointment.
A $40 deposit per pet is required at the time of scheduling. Organizers say $20 of that deposit will be refunded when the owner arrives for the scheduled appointment. The assistance program helps cover a portion of the spay or neuter procedure and rabies vaccination.
Owners will be responsible for any additional veterinary services their pets may require. The program is limited to 10 pets per household and is available only while funding lasts.
Appointments can be scheduled by calling My Kids Have Paws Veterinary Clinic at 706-671-1104, option 4.
Animal Advocates of Chattooga County encourages pet owners to take advantage of the opportunity to help reduce pet overpopulation and improve the health and well-being of their animals.
Arrest Report - Saturday - June 20, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, June 20, 2026:
Weekend Sunshine Gives Way To Increasing Storm Chances Next Week
After a pleasant start to the weekend, Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can expect a return to a more active summer weather pattern beginning Sunday afternoon and continuing through much of next week.
Saturday will be one of the better days in the forecast, featuring partly sunny skies and a high near 86 degrees. Light winds and a low around 68 Saturday night will make for comfortable evening conditions.
The weather pattern begins to change on Sunday as moisture increases across the region. While much of the morning should remain dry, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop during the afternoon and become more widespread later in the day. Rain chances increase to 60 percent Sunday afternoon and continue Sunday night.
The unsettled pattern is expected to persist through at least Tuesday, with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms. Monday currently appears to be the wettest day of the forecast period, with an 80 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Some storms could produce heavy downpours, frequent lightning, and brief gusty winds.
Rain chances remain elevated Tuesday before gradually decreasing during the second half of the week. By Thursday and Friday, only isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms are expected, with temperatures remaining seasonably warm in the mid-80s.
Residents planning outdoor activities this weekend should take advantage of the drier weather on Saturday and stay alert for changing conditions beginning Sunday afternoon.
Chill & Churn Ice Cream Contest and Dairy Day Underway Today at the Depot
Ice cream lovers and rail fans have a sweet treat waiting for them today as the City of Summerville hosts its annual Chill & Churn Homemade Ice Cream Contest and Dairy Day at the Summerville Train Depot.
The event runs from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and features homemade ice cream competitions, tasting opportunities, vendors, family-friendly activities, and the arrival of a steam engine train carrying passengers.
Registration for participants begins at 10:30 a.m., with contests getting underway at 11 a.m. Visitors can watch competitors test their skills in homemade ice cream making and age-division ice cream eating contests.
Cash prizes will be awarded in the homemade ice cream competition, including a $500 grand prize sponsored by Meter Service & Sales, LLC. Additional prizes will be awarded for second and third place.
Those attending can also purchase tasting wristbands to sample a variety of homemade ice cream flavors and vote for their favorite in the People’s Choice competition.
The event is free to attend and open to the public at the Summerville Train Depot.
Chattooga County Animal Shelter Seeks Volunteers to Support Local Pets
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is looking for volunteers willing to donate their time and talents to help care for homeless animals and support shelter operations.
Shelter officials say they are currently seeking volunteers to assist with answering phones for short shifts throughout the week. Volunteers in this role help direct calls, answer questions from the public, and provide friendly customer service to visitors and callers.
The shelter is also looking for social media volunteers who enjoy photography, videography, and creating online content. Photos, videos, and social media posts play a vital role in helping adoptable animals gain visibility and connect with potential families.
Organizers say there is a volunteer opportunity for nearly everyone, whether helping behind a desk or behind a camera. Community members interested in making a difference are encouraged to get involved and support the shelter’s mission.
Those interested in volunteering can text the word “Volunteer” to 210-380-1759, send a message to the shelter, or stop by in person.
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is located at 464 Red Oak Road in Summerville.
Trion Athletics Announces New Weightroom Coming in 2026
Trion Athletics has announced plans for a new state-of-the-art weightroom, scheduled for completion in October 2026.
The new facility will serve male and female athletes across Trion’s athletic programs, as well as students taking weight training classes at Trion High School.
School leaders say the project is designed to give Trion students and student-athletes access to top-quality training resources. Trion Athletics also thanked the Superintendent, Board of Education, and Athletic Administration for helping make the project possible.
Officials say the investment reflects the school system’s continued commitment to ensuring Trion Bulldogs have the very best resources available.
Spark Day Set for June 27 at Dowdy Park to Connect Families With Resources and Support
A new community event aimed at supporting individuals with special needs and their families is coming to Summerville later this month.
Spark Day will be held Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Dowdy Park. Organizers say more than 40 vendors and resource providers have already signed up to participate, offering information, services, and support for families from across Northwest Georgia.
The free event will feature food, family activities, and opportunities to connect with organizations serving the special needs community. Attendees can enjoy free nachos and burgers, a foam party for children, and a special appearance by Bluey.
Organizers say Spark Day is designed to help families find resources they may need while also connecting supporters, volunteers, and community partners with local organizations working to serve individuals with disabilities and special needs.
The event is being organized through Speak Life, which plans to host monthly meetings and expand programming in the future. Organizers hope to launch quarterly Special Olympics-style events for adults, children during the summer, and homeschooled students. Plans are also underway for a Night to Shine event at Connect City next February.
Looking ahead, organizers hope Spark Day will become an annual tradition that continues to grow each year. Long-term goals include developing a wheelchair- and walker-accessible covered playground area to provide more inclusive recreational opportunities for the community.
Everyone from across Northwest Georgia is invited to attend and bring the entire family for a day of fun, fellowship, and community support.
Social Security Warns Americans to Watch for Elder Abuse and Imposter Scams
The Social Security Administration is urging Americans to watch for signs of elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and fraud as scammers continue targeting older adults across the country.
The warning comes as federal agencies mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and promote the “Never EVER” anti-scam campaign.
Officials say elder abuse can include physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and government imposter scams. In those scams, criminals may contact victims by phone, text message, email, letter, or social media while pretending to represent a government agency.
Federal officials warn that scammers often use fear and urgency to pressure people into sharing personal information or sending money. They may claim benefits will be suspended, legal action is pending, or money must be moved to a “safe” account.
The Social Security Administration says government employees will never demand payment through gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or payment apps. They will also never tell someone to move money in order to protect it.
Officials encourage families to stay in regular contact with older loved ones, friends, and neighbors and to watch for unusual financial activity, sudden changes in behavior, isolation, or signs of neglect.
Anyone who receives an unexpected message claiming to be from a government agency should not click links or call phone numbers included in the message. Instead, officials say people should verify the information by contacting the agency directly using a known, trusted phone number or website.
Farm Bureau Seeking Nominations for 2027 Veteran Farmer Award
The American Farm Bureau Federation is accepting applications for its 2027 Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence, recognizing military veterans and active-duty service members who have found success in agriculture while making a positive impact in their communities.
Supported by Farm Credit, the award honors individuals who have carried the values of military service into farming and ranching, including leadership, hard work, problem-solving, and service to others.
The winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize, along with reimbursement for travel and related expenses to attend the 2027 American Farm Bureau Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The 2026 recipient was retired Army Command Sergeant Major Matthew Rutter of South Carolina. Following a 22-year military career, Rutter co-founded Project Victory Gardens and created Farmer Bootcamp, a program designed to help fellow veterans explore careers and opportunities in agriculture.
Applications for the 2027 award are due September 1. Farm Bureau membership is not required to apply.
Additional information and application details are available through the American Farm Bureau Federation.
Georgia Insurance Commissioner Opens Investigation Into State Patrol ‘PIT for Pay’ Scandal
Georgia’s Office of the Commissioner of Insurance has opened an investigation into the Georgia State Patrol’s so-called “PIT for Pay” scandal involving former troopers who allegedly profited from insurance claims tied to crashes they caused during vehicle pursuits.
The investigation follows the firing of four Georgia State Patrol troopers who were found to have pursued personal injury settlements after performing PIT maneuvers, a law enforcement tactic used to stop fleeing vehicles by intentionally causing them to spin out.
According to records released during the investigation, three former troopers received nearly $100,000 in combined insurance settlements. A fourth trooper was fired for failing to report the practice and attempting to participate himself.
One case involved former Trooper Hunter Waters, who reportedly received a $25,000 insurance settlement following a pursuit-related crash involving a vehicle owned by Latesha Banks. Banks was not driving the vehicle and was not present when the crash occurred.
Banks says she later learned of the insurance claim and has since faced higher insurance premiums despite not being responsible for the incident. She is seeking to have the settlement money returned and her insurance costs reduced.
Internal investigations found that multiple former troopers referred pursuit-related crashes to an attorney and obtained settlements through insurance claims.
The four troopers involved were terminated for violating department policy and ethical standards. No criminal charges have been filed.
The Office of the Commissioner of Insurance continues to investigate the matter, while some insurance companies involved are reportedly reviewing their legal options.
Summerville Montessori School Announces Limited Georgia Pre-K Openings
Summerville Montessori School is now accepting applications for a limited number of free Georgia Pre-K openings for the 2026–2027 school year.
The program is open to children who will be four years old on or before September 1 and will operate Tuesday through Friday during the school year.
School officials say the program combines Georgia Pre-K standards with Montessori-inspired learning, giving children opportunities to build independence, confidence, curiosity, and early academic skills in a nurturing, child-centered environment.
Students will take part in hands-on learning experiences focused on practical life skills, sensorial exploration, language and early literacy, mathematics, cultural studies, and social and emotional development.
Summerville Montessori School says its program is founded on faith, hope, and love, while encouraging children to develop responsibility, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning.
Enrollment is limited, and available openings are expected to fill quickly.
Families interested in learning more, scheduling a tour, or beginning the enrollment process are encouraged to contact Summerville Montessori School by text at 657-670-1840 or by email at courtneyscoggins.montessori@outlook.com.
Water Service Interruption Expected in Hwy 48 Area
Some City of Summerville water customers may experience low water pressure or no water service today due to a scheduled Georgia Power outage.
The outage is set to begin at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, and will affect the city’s water pump station located on Highway 48.
Areas that may be impacted include Peach Orchard Road, Highway 48, Hairlake Road, and Beavers Road.
City officials say the estimated restoration time is approximately three hours.
Anyone with questions can contact the City of Summerville Maintenance Department at 706-859-0907.