Arrest Report - Monday - June 1, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, June 1, 2026:
Daily Storm Chances Continue Before Drier, Cooler Weather Arrives
Daily rain and thunderstorm chances will remain in the forecast through Tuesday, with a noticeable shift toward drier and cooler conditions expected by the middle and end of the week.
Forecasters say a Marginal Risk for severe weather remains in place through tonight for parts of north Georgia, including areas that could be impacted by a weakening line of storms moving in from the north. The main concern will be a low-end risk for strong to damaging wind gusts, especially if the storm complex is able to hold together as it moves southward.
For Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia, the day is expected to begin with clouds in place, but some breaks in the cloud cover may develop by late morning or early afternoon. That could allow temperatures to rise into the mid to upper 80s before storms approach later in the day.
The best chance for stronger storms will be across north Georgia, where recent rainfall has left soils wet in many locations. Because of that, even gusty winds from weakening storms could bring down trees or limbs in spots where the ground is already saturated.
The storm system is expected to move generally southward later today and tonight, though forecasters say it may weaken as it reaches the metro Atlanta area and areas farther south. Still, residents across Northwest Georgia should keep an eye on the forecast through the evening, especially if storms develop or hold together longer than expected.
Tuesday will bring cooler temperatures as northeast winds and cloud cover return. Highs are expected to stay mainly in the mid to upper 70s. Rain chances will be higher across central Georgia, while North Georgia, including Chattooga County, should begin trending drier, with rain chances generally staying lower than areas farther south.
A more noticeable pattern change arrives Tuesday night into Wednesday as a front moves through the region. Behind it, a cooler and drier air mass will settle into north and central Georgia. Wednesday morning lows could dip into the 50s across the area, making for an unusually cool start for early June.
By Wednesday afternoon, sunshine should help temperatures rebound into the upper 70s and lower 80s. Dry weather is expected to continue through most of the week, giving residents a break from the repeated rounds of rain and storms.
Temperatures will gradually warm back into the 80s heading into the weekend. The next chance for rain may not arrive until early next week as moisture begins to return to the region.
Two Men Accused Of Stealing Tractors From Rome Assembly Plant
Two men have been arrested on felony theft charges after allegedly stealing tractors and a trailer from TYM North America’s facility on Cedartown Highway in Rome.
According to arrest warrants, 51-year-old Jason Matthew Stewart of Cave Spring and 58-year-old Travis Leslie Patterson of Rome are accused of taking two tractors and a trailer from the facility on May 20.
Authorities said each tractor was valued at $15,000, while the trailer was valued at $1,500.
TYM North America’s Rome operation is part of the company’s agricultural equipment manufacturing and assembly network. The Cedartown Highway facility was previously associated with Branson Tractors before TYM expanded its North American operations, including a multi-million-dollar investment in the Rome location.
Both men were charged with felony theft by taking.
Mitchell Field Lights Up For First Time As Summerville Recreation Upgrades Continue
Photo Credit: Summerville Mayor Rickey Hughes
For the first time in its history, Mitchell Field at Summerville Parks and Recreation is now hosting games under the lights.
Summerville Parks and Recreation announced this past weekend that new Musco Sports Lighting has officially been installed and operational during the Battle at the Big Horn 2026 Tournament.
Parks officials noted that Friday night marked the first time Mitchell Field had ever been illuminated for a ballgame, calling it a major milestone for local athletics and recreation.
The lighting project is part of a larger investment approved by the Summerville City Council to modernize ballfield facilities throughout the city. Council members approved a $735,000 contract with Musco Sports Lighting to replace aging lighting systems at multiple recreation fields, including Mitchell Field, Morgan Field, Dunson Field, and Fairway Field. The project was funded through a combination of financing and SPLOST funds.
According to city officials, the Musco system features energy-efficient LED lighting, advanced scheduling controls, reduced glare, and a 25-year warranty covering parts and labor. Recreation Director Adam Wilson previously described the project as a turnkey upgrade expected to reduce maintenance costs while improving the experience for players and spectators.
Musco Sports Lighting is recognized nationally as a leading provider of sports venue lighting systems and has completed projects ranging from local recreation complexes to major athletic facilities across the country. The company specializes in LED lighting technology designed to improve visibility while reducing energy consumption.
Parks officials say Fairway Ballfield is expected to be the next facility to receive the upgraded lighting system.
Summerville Woman Charged Following Domestic Disturbance Call
A Summerville woman was charged with disorderly conduct following a domestic disturbance investigation on Fourth Street, according to the Summerville Police Department.
Police responded to a residence at 275 Fourth Street on May 27 after receiving a report that a woman was in the complainant’s yard and refusing to leave.
According to the incident report, officers spoke with the complainant, who stated that her brother, John Albert Dozier, and his girlfriend, Audrey Wooten, had been involved in a physical altercation. Officers learned that Wooten had reportedly consumed alcohol before becoming upset and allegedly began damaging items inside a shed located on the property.
The report states that Dozier attempted to stop Wooten from damaging his belongings and tried to restrain her. While officers were investigating the incident, Wooten allegedly remained loud and argumentative and repeatedly interrupted attempts to speak with those involved.
As a result of the investigation, Audrey Wooten was charged with disorderly conduct.
The case was investigated by Officer Julian Smith of the Summerville Police Department.
Georgia Quota Hunt Applications Open Today
Georgia hunters can begin applying today for a variety of quota hunts through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division.
Applications opened June 1 for most quota hunts, including select deer, alligator, waterfowl, dove, turkey, feral hog, and youth hunting opportunities held on Wildlife Management Areas and other state-managed properties across Georgia.
Wildlife officials say quota hunts help provide high-quality hunting experiences while managing wildlife populations, reducing overcrowding, and protecting natural resources.
“Having quota hunts allows us to offer a wide variety of high-quality hunts year after year,” said Tina Johannsen, Assistant Chief of the Game Management Section with the Wildlife Resources Division.
Hunters can apply online through the Go Outdoors Georgia website by selecting the “Quota Hunts” option and following the application instructions. Officials encourage applicants to make sure their email addresses are current in order to receive hunt confirmations, updates, and notifications.
The first application deadline is July 15 for alligator hunts. Dove hunt applications close August 15, while most deer hunt applications, including youth deer hunts, must be submitted by September 1. Youth applicants for youth quota hunts must be 15 years old or younger.
Additional information, hunt details, application deadlines, and selection odds are available through the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division quota hunt system.
Chattooga County Posts Highest Unemployment Rate On Regional Map
New labor force numbers released for Northwest Georgia show Chattooga County with the highest unemployment rate listed on the latest regional map.
According to the data, Chattooga County recorded an unemployment rate of 4.7 percent. That figure was higher than several neighboring counties, including Gordon County at 3.1 percent, Dade and Bartow counties at 3.2 percent, Floyd County at 3.3 percent, and Walker County at 3.4 percent.
Whitfield County reported an unemployment rate of 4.0 percent, while Murray County came in at 3.9 percent.
Across Northwest Georgia overall, the unemployment rate declined six-tenths of a percentage point over the month to 2.7 percent. The rate stood at 2.8 percent one year ago.
The regional labor force decreased by 1,151 over the month but increased by 5,572 over the year to 458,771 workers.
The number of employed residents rose by 1,628 over the month and increased by 5,771 over the year, reaching 446,222 — an all-time high for the region.
State labor officials also reported initial unemployment claims were down by 521 over the month, reflecting continued strength in the regional job market.
While the broader Northwest Georgia region continues to show signs of job growth, Chattooga County’s higher unemployment rate highlights the ongoing need for local workforce development, job training, and employment opportunities close to home.
Economic development leaders across the region continue to point to manufacturing, logistics, construction, healthcare, and industrial growth as key drivers of employment demand. Many employers remain active in hiring workers for skilled trades, transportation, healthcare, warehousing, and manufacturing jobs.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park Announces Summer Junior Ranger Camps
Children ages 6 to 12 will have the opportunity to explore the outdoors and learn valuable nature skills this summer during Junior Ranger Camp at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park.
The park is offering three camp sessions throughout June and July, giving young campers hands-on experiences with park rangers while learning about the natural resources and wildlife found in Northwest Georgia.
Campers will participate in activities including archery instruction, fishing, wildlife education, and outdoor exploration designed to encourage an appreciation for nature and conservation.
The 2026 camp schedule includes:
• June 10-12 (3-Day Camp) – $65 registration fee
• June 22-23 (2-Day Camp) – $45 registration fee
• July 16-17 (2-Day Camp) – $45 registration fee
Each session runs from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. and is open to children ages 6 through 12.
Parents interested in registering their children or obtaining additional information can contact the park at 706-857-0826.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park, located in Chattooga County, is known for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and educational programs that connect visitors with Georgia’s natural heritage.
Chattooga County Health Inspections: Restaurants, Pool Receive High Scores In Late May
The Chattooga County Environmental Health Department has released its latest inspection scores for food service establishments and public swimming facilities for the second half of May 2026.
Three facilities inspected between May 15 and May 31 earned scores of 95 or higher.
Camp Juliette Low at Cloudland received a perfect score of 100 during its swimming pool inspection conducted on May 28.
Dos Maguey’s Mexican Restaurant, located on Commerce Street in Summerville, received a score of 95 during a food service inspection on May 27.
The Chattooga County Nutrition Center on Senior Drive in Summerville earned a perfect score of 100 during its food service inspection on May 20.
The Chattooga County Environmental Health Department reminds residents that complaints regarding food service establishments or tourist accommodations operating in Chattooga County can be reported by calling 706-857-3377.
Inspection Scores:
• Camp Juliette Low (Swimming Pool) – 100
• Dos Maguey’s Mexican Restaurant – 95
• Chattooga County Nutrition Center – 100
Berry College Earns A+ Financial Health Rating From Forbes For Second Straight Year
Berry College has once again received national recognition for its financial strength, earning an A+ rating in Forbes’ 2026 College Financial Grades.
The Mount Berry institution was one of just 103 private colleges across the United States to receive the highest possible financial grade in Forbes’ annual assessment of higher education financial health. It marks the second consecutive year Berry has earned the A+ designation.
Forbes evaluates more than 900 private nonprofit colleges nationwide, examining factors such as liquidity, operating performance, endowment strength, and overall financial stability. The publication noted a growing divide between financially strong institutions and colleges facing enrollment and budget challenges. Nearly half of the schools evaluated received grades of C or lower.
Berry College President Dr. Sandeep Mazumder said the recognition reflects the college’s commitment to maintaining long-term financial stability while continuing to invest in students and academic programs.
Founded in 1902 by Martha Berry, Berry College has grown into one of the most recognizable higher education institutions in Georgia. The school is known nationally for its student work program, expansive campus, and strong emphasis on service, leadership, and experiential learning. Berry’s campus spans more than 27,000 acres, making it the largest contiguous college campus in the world.
College officials noted that 99 percent of Berry students receive financial aid, and the institution continues to receive recognition for both academic quality and student outcomes. Forbes also included Berry in its Top Colleges rankings last year.
Arrest Report - Sunday - May 31, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, May 31, 2026:
Rainy Pattern Continues Across Northwest Georgia; Flooding, Storm Threats Persist Into Early Week
Residents of Northwest Georgia should prepare for continued chances of rain and thunderstorms through at least early next week, with forecasters warning that locally heavy rainfall and flash flooding remain the primary concerns.
Cloudy, cooler conditions moved into the region Sunday as a wedge of cooler air pushed southward into Georgia. The system is expected to bring periods of showers and gusty winds, with wind gusts reaching 20 to 25 mph in some areas. Temperatures will remain below normal, with highs mainly in the 70s.
Thunderstorms remain possible across portions of the area Sunday and Monday. While widespread severe weather is not expected, forecasters say lightning and gusty winds could accompany stronger storms.
A Marginal Risk for severe weather has been outlined for Northwest Georgia on Monday afternoon and evening. Meteorologists are monitoring the possibility of a cluster of storms moving south from Tennessee, which could produce isolated damaging wind gusts. Areas with saturated soils from recent rainfall may be more vulnerable to downed trees and power outages if stronger winds develop.
The wet weather pattern is expected to continue into Tuesday before a significant shift takes place. A drier air mass is forecast to move into Georgia by Wednesday, bringing a welcome break from the frequent afternoon thunderstorms that have dominated the region in recent weeks.
Forecasters expect lower humidity levels and mostly dry conditions from midweek through the end of the week. Temperatures will gradually warm, but the absence of high humidity should make conditions more comfortable than typical for early June in Georgia.
Officials encourage residents to remain alert for rapidly changing weather conditions and avoid driving through flooded roadways during periods of heavy rainfall.
Trion Town Council To Hold Special Called Meeting Tuesday
The Town of Trion has scheduled a Special Called Meeting for Tuesday, June 2, to discuss matters related to the town’s Industrial Park.
According to a notice issued by Mayor Mickey D. McGraw, the meeting will be held in the Town Hall Conference Room and will begin at 6 p.m. The sole purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Industrial Park.
Mayor McGraw stated that anyone with questions or comments may contact him or the Town Hall office for additional information.
The meeting is open to the public.
Georgia’s Oldest Living World War II Veteran Celebrates 107th Birthday
Georgia’s oldest living World War II veteran is celebrating a remarkable milestone this week.
Charlie Duncan turned 107 years old and was honored by family, friends, fellow veterans and community leaders during a special celebration in Woodstock. Local officials also proclaimed May 26 as “Charlie Duncan Day” in recognition of his service and his status as Georgia’s oldest living World War II veteran.
Duncan served on the front lines in Europe during World War II and witnessed some of the most significant moments in modern history. Those who know him say his life has been defined by service, perseverance and a deep love for his country.
The birthday celebration brought together veterans and supporters from across the region to honor a member of what is often called “The Greatest Generation.” Family members say Duncan continues to inspire others with his outlook on life and the experiences he has shared over more than a century.
As America prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of its founding in 2026, Duncan’s story serves as a living connection to a pivotal chapter in the nation’s history and a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served during World War II.
Customer Service Representative Position Open With City of Summerville
The City of Summerville is accepting applications for a Customer Service Representative position. The role involves a variety of customer service and administrative duties, including assisting utility customers, processing payments, maintaining records, issuing permits and business licenses, and handling cash transactions.
According to the job posting, responsibilities include setting up new customer accounts, preparing work orders, processing returned checks, balancing cash drawers, preparing bank deposits, issuing building and gas inspection permits, collecting payments for various city departments, and managing utility disconnects for non-payment.
Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and generally should possess one to two years of related experience in customer service, billing, cash handling, office administration, or a similar field.
The City says the position requires strong customer service skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle multiple administrative tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Several Statewide Races Headed To June 16 Runoff In Georgia
Georgia voters will return to the polls on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, to decide several key statewide races that were not settled during the May primary election.
According to unofficial results released by the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office, runoff elections will be required in a number of contests, including races for lieutenant governor, secretary of state, insurance commissioner, labor commissioner, and Public Service Commission District 5.
Among the higher-profile runoff contests, Colby Maurin and Nabilah Parkes will face off in the Democratic race for lieutenant governor, while Greg Dolezal and John F. Kennedy advance to the Republican runoff.
In the Republican race for secretary of state, Tim Fleming and Vernon Jones will compete for the nomination, while Democrats Dana Barrett and Penny Brown Reynolds will meet in a runoff for their party’s nomination.
Several statewide races were decided outright in the primary, including the Democratic nominations for U.S. Senate, governor and attorney general, along with the Republican nominations for attorney general, agriculture commissioner and insurance commissioner.
Voters in Chattooga County and across Georgia who participated in the primary will have another opportunity to cast ballots in the runoff election on June 16.
Illegal Tire Dumping Reported On Vacant Summerville Property
A Summerville man has reported that dozens of tires were illegally dumped on a vacant property belonging to his late father.
According to a report filed by the Summerville Police Department, Jeff McCary told officers he received a letter from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources regarding an excessive number of tires located on property at 585 Maple Drive in Summerville. After receiving the notice, McCary visited the property and discovered what he described as abandoned tires that had been dumped on the site.
McCary told police he had no prior knowledge of the tires and did not authorize anyone to leave them on the property. He also advised officers that he has no knowledge of his late father authorizing anyone to dump tires there. According to the report, the property has been vacant for approximately five years.
The incident was classified by the Summerville Police Department as abandoned property. No suspects were identified in the report, and the case remains under investigation.
GNTC Receives Major PPE Donation From J. J. Keller
Patty Hart, vice president of Economic Development at GNTC (left), and Leigh Ann Pettigrew, director of Student Success and campus manager of GNTC’s Whitfield Murray Campus, pose for a picture wearing personal protective equipment donated by J. J. Keller & Associates Inc.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College has received a major donation of personal protective equipment to help improve student safety and provide hands-on training with industry-standard gear.
J. J. Keller & Associates Inc. donated nearly 500 pieces of high-visibility clothing and PPE to the college, including gaiters, gloves, high-visibility jackets, masks, suspenders and vests.
GNTC officials say the donated items will be distributed to programs including Commercial Truck Driving, Electrical Lineworker, Welding and Joining Technology, and other areas where students train for hands-on careers.
Patty Hart, vice president of Economic Development at GNTC, said the college is grateful for J. J. Keller’s generosity. Hart said the company recently offered the PPE overstock to the college, allowing students to benefit from safety equipment used in real-world workplace settings.
The donation follows another contribution from J. J. Keller last year, when the company donated 32 copies of its “Entry-Level Driver Training Obtaining a CDL Student Manual” to GNTC’s Commercial Truck Driving – Class A program.
Joel Clark, director of product management at J. J. Keller, said the company’s goal is to keep people safe in the workplace. He said helping GNTC students practice safety during their training and carry those habits into their future jobs is especially rewarding.
J. J. Keller & Associates is a family-owned safety and compliance company founded in 1953. Georgia Northwestern Technical College provides workforce education across northwest Georgia through associate degree, diploma, certificate, adult education, continuing education, business and industry training and Georgia Quick Start programs.
Chattooga's Addie Veatch Selected For Tennessee-Georgia All-Star Softball Classic
One of Chattooga High School’s standout softball players will have the opportunity to represent Northwest Georgia on one of the region’s biggest stages next month.
Recent Chattooga graduate Addie Veatch has been selected to play for Team Georgia in the 28th Annual Tennessee-Georgia All-Star Softball Classic, scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, at Frost Stadium in Chattanooga. The annual event showcases many of the top graduating senior softball players from Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia.
Veatch, who has signed to continue her softball career at Gadsden State Community College, will join an elite roster of players from schools across Northwest Georgia as Team Georgia looks to build on last year’s success.
The doubleheader begins at 6 p.m. and will feature some of the area’s most accomplished players, many of whom are headed to collegiate programs ranging from junior colleges to NCAA Division I schools.
Team Georgia will be coached by Heritage High School’s Reagan Armour, whose Lady Generals captured their sixth GHSA state championship this past season.
Georgia enters this year’s event with momentum after sweeping Tennessee in last year’s All-Star Classic, winning games by scores of 1-0 and 5-3. The sweep marked only the third time Georgia has won both games of the annual showcase.
For Veatch, the selection serves as another recognition of her outstanding high school career and provides an opportunity to compete alongside many of the best senior softball players in the region before beginning her collegiate career at Gadsden State.
Vacation Bible School Season Begins Across The Area
School is out for the summer, and churches across the area are holding, or preparing to hold, Vacation Bible School programs for local children. Vacation Bible School, commonly known as VBS, has been a summer tradition for generations. The movement began in the late 19th century as a way to provide wholesome, biblically focused summer activities for neighborhood children.
The first known daily Bible school was launched in 1894 in Hopedale, Illinois, by public and Sunday school teacher D.T. Miles. The program enrolled 40 students and lasted four weeks.
A few years later, in 1898, Virginia Sinclair Hawes started an “Everyday Bible School” in a rented beer parlor on New York City’s East Side. Her goal was to help keep at-risk inner-city children off the streets while providing Bible instruction and positive activities.
By the early 1900s, the idea had spread to other cities, including Chicago and Philadelphia. By 1922, Vacation Bible School had become a national trend, with thousands of summer Bible schools registered across multiple denominations.
Early VBS programs often lasted several weeks and included Bible lessons, crafts, music, hygiene instruction and community outreach. Over time, the format evolved into the week-long summer church programs familiar to many families today.
Modern Vacation Bible School programs often include themed lessons, music, games, crafts, snacks and skits. Churches continue to use VBS as a way to reach children and families during the summer months while teaching biblical lessons in a fun and engaging setting.
Several area churches have already announced Vacation Bible School plans:
- Central Avenue Baptist Church in Trion will host Vacation Bible School May 31 through June 3 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. each night. The event is open to children from Pre-K through 12th grade and will include faith, fun, friends, food, games, worship and lessons focused on learning more about Jesus. Dinner will be provided nightly. The church is located at 14074 U.S. Highway 27 in Trion. Bus transportation is available by calling 706-734-3140 and leaving a message with the child’s name, address and phone number.
- Subligna Baptist Church will hold Vacation Bible School May 31 through June 4 from 6 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. each night. The program is open to children from Pre-K through 12th grade. Dinner will be served nightly, and this year’s theme is “Illumination Station.” For more information, call 706-397-8114.
- Chesterfield Baptist Church will host VBS 2026 “Illumination Station” June 7 through June 11 from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. Eastern Time. The church is located at 7925 County Road 15 in Gaylesville, Alabama, about four miles from Menlo on Jamestown Road.
- Lyerly Community Church will hold its annual Vacation Bible School on June 20 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. This year’s theme is “Put On Your Armor for God.” The event will include Bible school lessons, crafts, water games and lunch. Children should bring a towel and wear clothes that can get wet. For more information, contact Pastor Marshall Bryan at 706-409-0329. Lyerly Community Church is located at 105 Oak Hill Road in Lyerly, across from Lyerly School.
Local families are encouraged to check with area churches for additional dates, times and registration information for upcoming Vacation Bible School programs. If your church is hosting a Vacation Bible School and you would like to have that information on the radio and the WZQZ website, you may call 706-857-WZQZ (706-857-9979) and leave a detailed message or e-mail info@chattoogainfo.com . There is no charge for church news on WZQZ.