Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, July 8, 2025:

Residents of Northwest Georgia can expect another warm day today, though meteorologists are cautioning about the possibility of isolated strong to marginally severe thunderstorms, primarily bringing a risk of damaging wind gusts. This comes as temperatures are expected to soar into the upper 80s and 90s across much of the region, with rain chances picking up significantly later in the week.According to forecasters, while widespread severe storm activity is not anticipated, specific atmospheric conditions could lead to “advantageous updrafts” that might produce an isolated damaging wind gust. The overall forecast does not call for extensive severe weather.

Today’s Outlook: Today will be sunny with a high near 93 degrees, with heat index values making it feel as hot as 97 degrees. There’s a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms developing after 2 PM. Much of the region can expect highs in the upper 80s to upper 90s, with far northeast Georgia likely remaining cooler, in the upper 70s to 80s. Winds will generally remain calm, becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight brings a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11 PM, with partly cloudy conditions and a low around 71 degrees. Winds will be west around 5 mph, becoming calm.

Mid-Week Shift: Looking ahead to Wednesday, temperatures are expected to cool slightly, with highs near 91 degrees, though heat index values could again reach 97. The chance of precipitation jumps significantly to 70 percent, with showers and thunderstorms becoming likely after 11 AM. Greater cloud cover from more numerous storms is anticipated to contribute to the minor temperature drop. Calm winds will become southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Wednesday night sees a 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8 PM. It will be mostly cloudy with a low around 71 degrees.

End of Week Rain Increase: By Thursday, rain chances peak with an 80 percent likelihood of showers and possibly thunderstorms after 2 PM, and a high near 87 degrees. Winds will remain light, becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.

The latter half of the week shows a continued increase in rain chances as moisture filters into the region. Forecasters predict a return to more typical isolated to scattered storm activity by early next week.

Walker County has fired both the Fleet Director, Ricky Carr, and a newly hired mechanic, John Chance Pendergrass, after a firetruck crash that resulted in the vehicle overturning and catching fire.

The firetruck, valued at $640,000, was involved in an accident on Old Lafayette Road. Pendergrass was driving when he reportedly lost control while approaching railroad tracks and claimed that the brakes failed. However, it was later revealed that he did not have the required commercial driver’s license to operate the firetruck, which led to him being cited by the Georgia State Patrol.

Conflicting statements arose about whether Carr had authorized Pendergrass to take the firetruck for a test drive. Pendergrass insisted that Carr was unaware of the drive. After the crash, he mentioned that the truck’s Anti-lock Braking System warning light had come on, and he believed a low voltage issue might have caused it. Nonetheless, a trooper’s report indicated that tire marks showed the truck had gone off the road before any attempt to brake.

Walker County Chairwoman Angie Teems criticized Carr’s lack of oversight, stating he prioritized convenience over safety and failed to manage his team properly. The firetruck was only covered by liability insurance, raising concerns about potential costs to taxpayers for its replacement or repairs. Teems deemed the terminations necessary due to the serious results of the incident and the disagreements in the accounts of events.

Chattooga County property owners should be on the lookout for their 2025 property assessment notices, which were mailed on Monday, June 30, 2025. With these notices comes a crucial 45-day window for review and appeal, with the deadline set for August 14, 2025.

Adding to the importance of this period, the Chattooga County Assessor’s Office is strongly encouraging all eligible homeowners to apply for the homestead exemption during this appeal period, thanks to recent changes in state law.

A significant update for taxpayers stems from House Bill 92, which has revised multiple provisions of House Bill 581 (2024). This legislation created a statewide floating homestead exemption, fundamentally altering how and when homeowners can apply for this valuable tax relief.

Previously, the traditional deadline for homestead exemption applications was a strict April 1st. Under the new revisions, taxpayers now have an extended opportunity: they may apply for the homestead exemption up to the end of their 45-day window to appeal their notice of assessment. This provides a more flexible and extended period for eligible homeowners to secure their exemption.

However, property owners should also be aware of new stipulations regarding the exemption’s applicability:

• The State/Local homestead exemption is now applicable to only the house and up to five acres of land.
• For properties enrolled in Conservation Use Valuation Assessment (CUVA) or the Forest Land Protection Act (FLPA), the exemption is limited to two acres.

These legislative changes became effective on April 1, 2025, and are applicable to taxable years beginning on or after 2025.

The Chattooga County Board of Assessors emphasizes the importance of reviewing assessment notices promptly and taking advantage of the extended homestead exemption application window. For any questions regarding assessments or the homestead exemption application process, property owners are encouraged to contact the Assessor’s Office directly at 706-857-0737.

A former reality television personality from MTV’s “16 and Pregnant,” Whitney Blake Purvis, 33, of Rome, was arrested this week following allegations that she supplied drugs to a local man who subsequently died from an overdose.

Police reports indicate that Purvis distributed a substance presented as “Tranq” (commonly known as Xylazine) and Fentanyl to 37-year-old John Mark Harris at his home on East Eighth Street in East Rome. Harris was later discovered deceased from an overdose by his father.

This arrest comes mere months after another tragedy struck Purvis’s family. Her 16-year-old son, Weston Owen Gosa, with whom she was pregnant during her appearance on the reality show, also died earlier this year from unknown causes.

Since her time on “16 and Pregnant,” Purvis has faced numerous legal troubles. Her past arrests include charges such as shoplifting and failure to make child-support payments.

Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the investigation or the specific charges Purvis is facing in connection with John Mark Harris’s death.

Coosa Valley News contributed to this report

The Chattooga County Historical Society invites the public to its upcoming Summer Meeting, set to delve into the rich history of the Cherokee Indians in the local area. The event will take place on Sunday, July 13th, at 2 PM at The Summerville Depot.

The meeting will feature Dale Willingham, a dedicated local explorer known for his extensive years of searching the county for Indian relics. Willingham will be the featured speaker, sharing his insights into the Cherokee presence and their legacy in the Chattooga County region.

Attendees will have a unique opportunity to not only hear from Willingham but also to view a display of some of his fascinating finds. His collection offers a tangible connection to the indigenous people who once inhabited or traversed the local landscape.

The Chattooga County Historical Society emphasizes that this meeting is free and open to all members of the community, encouraging anyone with an interest in local history and Native American culture to attend. It promises to be an educational and engaging afternoon for all ages.

Don’t miss this chance to learn more about a significant chapter in Chattooga County’s past.

The highly anticipated moment has arrived: the very first sea turtle nest of Georgia’s 2025 nesting season has officially hatched, bringing a new wave of tiny lives to the shores of Jekyll Island.

In the early hours of Thursday, July 1st, exactly two months after the eggs were carefully laid, the loggerhead hatchlings began their incredible journey from nest to ocean. The timely emergence, right on schedule with the typical 60-day incubation period, signals a successful start to the state’s vital sea turtle reproductive season.

This initial hatching marks a significant milestone for conservation efforts along the Georgia coast. Sea turtle nests are closely monitored by dedicated teams and volunteers, ensuring the safety and successful incubation of these endangered and threatened species.

For those eager to learn more about these fascinating creatures or perhaps catch a glimpse of the next generation of sea turtles, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island offers a unique opportunity. Visitors can explore the center to learn extensively about sea turtle nesting season, the various species found in Georgia waters, and the critical conservation work being done. Additionally, the center provides an opportunity for the public to directly support these efforts by adopting a sea turtle nest.

Georgians are continuing to see a welcome decrease in gasoline prices, with the state’s average for regular unleaded falling to $2.90 per gallon. This marks a 4-cent drop compared to just a week ago, offering fresh relief at the pump for motorists.

The current state average, calculated on Monday, stands at $2.90. While this is 4 cents lower than last week’s figures, it is 2 cents higher than the average price a month ago. However, the most significant savings come when comparing to a year ago, with prices currently 42 cents lower than they were at this time last year.

For the average driver, this translates to tangible savings. Filling a standard 15-gallon tank of regular gasoline now costs approximately $43.50. This is nearly $7.00 less than what motorists were paying to fill the same tank just one year ago.

Nationally, the trend of decreasing prices is also evident. The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline across the U.S. has similarly decreased by 4 cents since last Monday, now standing at $3.14. This places Georgia’s average well below the national average, providing an additional benefit for drivers within the state.

It’s important to note that these prices are subject to change overnight as market conditions fluctuate.

The most expensive metro markets in Georgia are Savannah ($2.98), Atlanta ($2.93), and Macon ($2.92).

The least expensive metro markets in Georgia areDalton ($2.79), Rome ($2.78), and Catoosa-Dade-Walker ($2.72).

Area gas price averages: Chattooga ($2.80), Walker ($2.75), Floyd ($2.79), Gordon ($2.79), DeKalb, AL ($2.70), Cherokee, AL ($2.79).

Two corrections officers at the Polk County Jail sustained stab wounds to their heads and arms Saturday after being assaulted by an inmate wielding a homemade weapon, according to a press release issued by Polk County Sheriff Johnny Moats. Both officers were treated at a local hospital and released the same day.

The violent encounter occurred around 12:40 PM on Saturday, July 5th, 2025, as jail staff were collecting lunch trays from observation cells in the booking area. Inmate Dewayne Young reportedly became increasingly agitated after his tray was collected, beginning to flood his cell and make repeated verbal threats toward staff.

Despite multiple verbal commands for compliance, Inmate Young refused to cooperate. Jail staff then deployed two bursts from a PepperBall launcher in an effort to gain his compliance. However, Inmate Young responded by covering his face with his shirt and continued to flood his cell and issue threats.

Due to the ongoing escalation, the G.L.O.V.E. (Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter) device was activated, and a cell entry team was formed. Corporal Smith, Officer Penny, and Officer Dyer entered Young’s cell. Inmate Young had positioned himself between the toilet and the bunk, using his mattress as a shield.

Upon approach, Inmate Young produced a homemade edged weapon and immediately began stabbing at the officers. Corporal Smith, upon identifying the weapon, gave the immediate order to exit the cell. All officers successfully exited, and the cell door was secured to contain the inmate.

As a result of the assault, Officer Penny and Officer Dyer suffered multiple stab wounds to their heads and arms. Medical assistance was rendered on-site, and both officers were transported to a local hospital for treatment. They were treated and released later the same day.

Following the incident, patrol deputies responded to the facility and executed a tactical extraction of Inmate Young from the cell without further incident.

Sheriff Johnny Moats confirmed the details of the incident through the press release. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is located at 1676 Rockmart Highway, Cedartown, Georgia.

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Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, July 7, 2025:

Northwest Georgia is set to experience a week of high temperatures and increasing chances of thunderstorms, with isolated showers possible as early as this afternoon and evening. While the probability for widespread severe weather remains low, residents should be prepared for the possibility of a few strong to severe storms each day as the week progresses.

Today, Monday, will be predominantly sunny, with temperatures soaring to a high near 93 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat index, a measure of how hot it truly feels, is expected to reach uncomfortable levels, peaking around 97 degrees. Calm winds will gradually shift to a light southwest breeze of approximately 5 mph in the afternoon. Isolated thunderstorms are possible across the region this afternoon and evening. Tonight will offer little relief, remaining mostly clear with a low around 72 degrees, as southwest winds calm down.

Tuesday introduces a higher chance of precipitation, with a 50 percent probability of showers and thunderstorms developing after 2 p.m. Despite the potential for rain, temperatures will remain high, again reaching around 93 degrees. The heat index is projected to climb even higher, potentially hitting 98 degrees, making outdoor activities challenging. Calm winds will become a light westerly breeze of about 5 mph in the afternoon. Tuesday night sees thunderstorm chances decrease slightly to 30 percent, mainly before 8 p.m., under partly cloudy skies with a low near 71 degrees.

Wednesday marks the highest chance of rain for the mid-week, with a 60 percent probability of showers and thunderstorms. A slight chance of precipitation exists before 2 p.m., with showers and potentially thunderstorms becoming likely between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., and continuing to be likely after 5 p.m. The high on Wednesday is expected to be near 91 degrees, still quite warm, with calm winds becoming a light westerly breeze around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Residents are advised to take precautions against the heat, including staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours, and checking on vulnerable neighbors and pets. While widespread severe weather is not anticipated, the daily possibility of isolated strong to severe storms means it’s crucial to monitor local weather forecasts and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, including lightning and heavy downpours.

Chattooga County residents can now cast their ballots early for the upcoming Special Democratic Primary Runoff, with advance voting commencing today, Monday, July 7th, at the Registrar’s Office in Summerville.

The runoff election, scheduled for Tuesday, July 15th, will determine the Democratic nominee for a spot on the Public Service Commission. Only voters who did not participate in the Republican primary are eligible to cast a ballot in this Democratic runoff. The voter registration deadline for this election was May 19th.

Advance Voting Details:

• Dates: Monday, July 7th through Friday, July 11th
• Time: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily
• Location: Registrar’s Office, Summerville
• Note: There will be no Saturday voting for this runoff.

The Chattooga County Board of Elections reports a significantly low number of absentee ballots issued so far, with only one absentee-by-mail ballot issued and none returned. Voters wishing to vote by mail must submit their Absentee by Mail applications by the end of today, July 7th.

Election Day Details (Tuesday, July 15th):

• Time: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Location: Chattooga County Civic Center only. This will be the sole polling location open on Election Day.

Voters are reminded to bring a valid photo ID when casting their ballot, whether during the advance voting period or on Election Day. Election officials strongly encourage all eligible voters to take advantage of the advance voting period or make plans to vote in person on July 15th to ensure their voice is heard in this important primary race.

Georgia’s 11 Public Fishing Areas (PFAs) are reeling in more than just fish; they’re becoming prime destinations for family outdoor adventures, offering a wide array of activities beyond the traditional angling experience.

Managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) specifically for angling excellence, these sites boast diverse waters, from vast multi-acre lakes to intimate ponds, including some designated for kids-only. Anglers can cast from boats, shorelines, or convenient piers and docks at most locations, enjoying success thanks to dedicated fisheries management.

“Our fisheries staff takes great pride in managing these locations for the enjoyment of anglers and their families,” states Scott Robinson, WRD Fisheries Management Chief. “And, even if fishing isn’t the activity for all of the family, these locations provide something for everyone, including activities like hiking, bird watching, picnicking and camping.”

The allure of PFAs truly extends far beyond the tackle box. Visitors will find essential amenities across all PFAs, including concrete boat ramps, picnic tables, well-maintained nature and wildlife observation trails, fish cleaning stations, and convenient restroom facilities. For those seeking an extended escape, select PFAs offer diverse camping opportunities, ranging from primitive tent sites to full RV hookups.

All Georgia PFAs are open seven days a week, and with the exception of Rocky Mountain PFA, allow night fishing year-round, catering to all schedules.

A prime example of a multi-faceted PFA is the Rocky Mountain PFA in neighboring Floyd County. This expansive area features two lakes spanning a total of 559 acres, teeming with popular species such as largemouth bass, bluegill and redear sunfish, channel catfish, crappie, and walleye. Beyond fishing, it offers a refreshing beach and swimming area, various camping options (tent, RV, and group primitive), shaded picnic shelters, and even an archery range. (Note: A $5 parking pass is required for entry to Rocky Mountain PFA).

Whether you’re an avid angler or simply looking for an affordable, family-friendly outdoor getaway, Georgia’s Public Fishing Areas present an ideal destination. Plan your visit to one—or more—of these versatile state treasures today and discover the diverse adventures awaiting you.

Initial filings for unemployment benefits in Georgia rose the last week of June, according to data released last Thursday by the U.S. Department of Labor, bucking a national trend that saw a decrease in jobless claims across the United States.

The number of Georgians filing new claims for unemployment benefits, often viewed as a proxy for layoffs, climbed to 4,401 in the week ending June 28. This marks an increase from the 4,108 claims reported in the preceding week.

Conversely, the national picture showed a decline in unemployment applications. U.S. unemployment claims dropped to 233,000 last week, a decrease of 4,000 claims from the 237,000 reported the week prior on a seasonally adjusted basis.

The varied trends suggest differing dynamics within regional labor markets, with Georgia experiencing a slight uptick in initial jobless filings while the broader national data indicates continued easing in layoffs.

Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen is requesting a Safety Action Plan (SAP) Grant from the Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT) to improve road safety in the county. If approved, the grant could provide up to $428,000 in funding, a significant amount for a county with nearly 500 miles of county-maintained roads.

In a letter to the DOT, Commissioner Allen emphasized the urgent need for infrastructure safety in the region. “I am writing to express my strong support for Chattooga County’s application for the Safety Action Plan (SAP) Grant, which is crucial for enhancing roadway safety and reducing the frequency and severity of traffic accidents within our community,” Allen stated.

The SAP Grant would fund several improvements, including guardrails on hazardous road sections to prevent run-off crashes, additional road striping to improve nighttime visibility, extra signage in low-visibility zones, shoulder widening, and elevation corrections. “Investing in these measures will help reduce accidents and create safer travel conditions for everyone using our roads,” Allen concluded.

Commissioner Allen expressed his commitment to improving road safety, regardless of whether the SAP Grant is awarded. “We’re committed to doing everything we can to make our roads safer,” he said. “But this grant could make a big difference in how quickly and thoroughly we can do it.”

Should the grant be funded, Chattooga County plans to stripe several roads, including Nellie Lane, Tasha Lane, Poplar Springs Road, Tinney Road, Stallion Drive, Colt Lane, Perennial Springs Road, Gilkeson Road, Mayo Drive, South Airport Road, North Airport Road, Airport Road, Dogwood Drive, Barnesville Road, Yarbrough Road, Spring Hill Road, Palm Springs Road, Penn Bridge Road, and Sling Alley Road.

Future Georgia homeowners have cause for celebration as the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) officially launched its new Georgia Dream Peach Advantage Loan Program on July 1. This significant initiative aims to provide greater down payment assistance, making the dream of homeownership more attainable for individuals and families across the state.

The Georgia Dream Peach Advantage Loan Program introduces enhanced flexibility and support for prospective buyers. Key to the new program is the expansion of down payment assistance options, which now range from two percent up to an impressive five percent of the loan amount.

In a move set to significantly lower barriers to entry, the program also offers a zero percent down payment option. This specific alternative is coupled with a reduced first mortgage interest rate, providing a dual benefit designed to ease the financial burden for qualified borrowers.

For those who may have already embarked on their homeownership journey with the DCA, the department has issued specific guidance. Borrowers who applied for another Georgia Dream program before July 1 and whose loans have not yet been approved and purchased will need to cancel their existing application and reapply for the new Georgia Dream Peach Advantage Loan Program to access its benefits.

The DCA strongly recommends that any borrower in this situation consult with both their loan officer and the Georgia Department of Community Affairs directly before cancelling their existing application, ensuring a smooth transition and understanding of their options.

Prospective homebuyers eager to learn more about the Georgia Dream Peach Advantage Loan Program, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, are encouraged to visit the Georgia Department of Community Affairs website at dca.georgia.gov.

The Town of Trion has announced an opening for a dump truck driver, a position that will also encompass a range of essential public works duties. The town is currently accepting applications for this vital role within its operations.

Prospective candidates must possess at least a Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and demonstrate the ability to haul materials across state lines. A pre-employment drug screening will also be a mandatory part of the application process.

Beyond operating a dump truck, the successful applicant will be expected to perform physical tasks critical to local infrastructure and aesthetics. These responsibilities will include general groundskeeping and various simple maintenance duties, making it a diverse and hands-on position.

Individuals interested in applying for this employment opportunity can pick up applications at the Town of Trion Wastewater Treatment Plant. The facility is located at 15131 Highway 27, Trion, GA 30753.

The Town of Trion is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all qualified individuals to apply.