Arrest Report - Saturday - June 6, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, June 6, 2026:
Increasing Humidity Signals Return of Summer Storm Pattern Across Northwest Georgia
The stretch of dry weather that has dominated Northwest Georgia during recent days is nearing its end as moisture begins flowing back into the region and afternoon thunderstorm chances make a comeback.
Saturday is expected to remain rain-free across Chattooga County and surrounding areas, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures climbing well into the 80s. While conditions will remain warm, the air will gradually become more humid as winds shift from the south and transport Gulf moisture back into Georgia.
Forecasters say the first noticeable opportunity for rainfall will arrive Sunday afternoon when scattered showers and thunderstorms begin developing across portions of North Georgia. Those rain chances will mark the beginning of a more typical June weather pattern that is expected to persist through much of next week.
The recent dry spell has been supported by high pressure and upper-level ridging across the Southeast. That weather pattern is now weakening and shifting eastward into the Atlantic, opening the door for a series of weather disturbances to pass north of Georgia. While none of these systems are expected to produce widespread severe weather, they will provide enough atmospheric support for daily rounds of showers and thunderstorms.
From Monday through Thursday, the forecast calls for scattered to numerous afternoon and evening storms fueled primarily by daytime heating and increasing humidity. This is a common summertime setup across Georgia, where sunshine during the morning hours gives way to building clouds and developing thunderstorms later in the day.
Despite the return of rain chances, forecasters are not anticipating a significant severe weather threat. A strong upper-level ridge centered near the Gulf Coast should help limit instability across the region. However, any thunderstorm can still produce dangerous lightning, brief heavy downpours, gusty winds, and localized flooding in areas that receive repeated rounds of rainfall.
Temperatures throughout the upcoming week will remain close to seasonal averages, with afternoon highs generally reaching the mid to upper 80s and overnight lows settling into the upper 60s and lower 70s. The bigger change will be the return of higher humidity levels, creating noticeably muggy conditions compared to the more comfortable air experienced during the past several days.
Anyone with outdoor plans next week should keep an eye on the sky during the afternoon and evening hours, as scattered thunderstorms are expected to become a regular part of the forecast once again across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia.
Wild West Celebration Happening Today At Historic Summerville Depot
A day of cowboy adventures, family activities, shopping, and railroad history is happening today in downtown Summerville as Summerville Main Street hosts its annual Wild West celebration at the Historic Summerville Depot.
The free event takes place from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the depot, located at 119 East Washington Street.
Visitors can enjoy food and craft vendors, live entertainment, historical demonstrations, free mechanical bull rides, and a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the day.
One of the featured attractions is the Spurred West Living History Group, which has transformed part of the depot into a 19th-century saloon complete with historical displays and demonstrations. Reenactors are portraying characters from the Old West, including Georgia-born frontier con man Jefferson “Soapy” Smith, while sharing stories about life on the American frontier.
Live gunfight reenactments are scheduled for 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. outside the depot. Visitors can also meet cast members, take photographs, and learn more about cowboy culture between performances.
Families can enjoy appearances by the Cowboy Church Clowns, while adventurous visitors can take a free ride on the mechanical bull. Riders may choose their preferred speed but must sign a waiver before participating.
Railroad enthusiasts are expected to gather for one of the day’s biggest attractions. At approximately 12:30 p.m., the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s historic 4501 steam locomotive is scheduled to arrive from Chattanooga with a passenger excursion train. Visitors will also have an opportunity to watch the locomotive being turned on the historic Summerville turntable.
Organizers say the event celebrates both the region’s railroad heritage and the spirit of the American West while offering entertainment and activities for all ages.
Georgia Power Customers To See Small Rate Decrease, But Questions Remain About Future Costs
Georgia Power customers are seeing a small reduction in their electric bills this month, but consumer advocates and energy experts say larger cost concerns may still be on the horizon.
The Georgia Public Service Commission recently approved an agreement that will reduce bills for the typical residential customer by about $4 per month, or roughly $50 per year. The decrease took effect in June and is tied to changes in fuel and storm-cost recovery charges.
However, a new report from Inside Climate News notes that while customers are receiving short-term relief, Georgia Power’s cost-recovery system allows the utility to pass certain expenses on to ratepayers, including costs associated with major storm recovery efforts and future infrastructure investments.
The report also highlights concerns about growing electricity demand from data centers and whether future costs associated with serving those large users could eventually affect residential customers. Some consumer advocates have argued that regulators should continue examining how those costs are allocated.
Georgia Power officials say the recent agreement will provide approximately $285 million in annual savings statewide while maintaining reliable electric service. The company has also pointed to long-term plans intended to keep rates stable as Georgia continues to experience population and economic growth.
While customers are expected to enjoy slightly lower bills this summer, discussions over storm recovery costs, future energy demand, and utility investments are likely to remain major issues before state regulators in the years ahead.
4-Foot Invasive Lizard Spotted In Georgia, Wildlife Officials Urge Action
Georgia wildlife officials are warning residents about an invasive lizard species that is spreading across parts of the state and threatening native wildlife.
The Argentine black-and-white tegu, a large lizard native to South America, can grow up to four feet long and weigh more than 10 pounds. State biologists say the reptiles have been found in southeast Georgia and have now been reported in dozens of counties statewide.
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, tegus pose a significant threat because they consume eggs and young of native species, including quail, wild turkeys, gopher tortoises, and even alligators. They also eat fruits, vegetables, pet food, and other small animals.
Officials are also concerned that the reptiles may spread parasites and salmonella, creating additional risks for wildlife and agriculture.
The Georgia DNR began investigating tegu sightings in 2018 and has been working with research partners to trap and remove the invasive reptiles. Because tegus are not protected in Georgia, wildlife officials are encouraging residents to report sightings and, where legal and safe to do so, humanely remove the animals from private property.
Biologists say public awareness and rapid response will be critical to preventing the species from becoming permanently established across larger portions of the state
FBI Offers Reward As Manhunt Continues For Escaped Georgia Inmate
Federal authorities are continuing their search for a Georgia inmate accused of orchestrating an $11 million fraud scheme from behind bars after he escaped from a federal prison camp in south Georgia.
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of 34-year-old Arthur Lee Cofield, who walked away from the minimum-security prison camp at the Federal Correctional Institution in Jesup on May 26. Authorities say Cofield should be considered armed and dangerous.
According to federal prosecutors, Cofield was serving an 11-year federal prison sentence after being convicted of conspiracy to commit fraud and aggravated identity theft. Investigators said he used a contraband cellphone while incarcerated in a Georgia prison to gain access to a Charles Schwab account belonging to Hollywood producer Sidney Kimmel and steal approximately $11 million.
Prosecutors said the stolen money was used to purchase more than 6,000 American Gold Eagle coins, which were flown to Georgia on a private aircraft. Authorities also alleged that some of the proceeds were used to purchase a multi-million-dollar home in Atlanta’s Buckhead area.
The FBI says Cofield is approximately 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighs about 210 pounds, and has a tattoo of a dove on the left side of his face and a tomahawk tattoo on the right side of his face. Officials say he has ties to the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Anyone with information regarding Cofield’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact the FBI or the U.S. Marshals Service. The search remains ongoing.
Trion Wins ‘Battle Of The Beds’ Fundraiser Benefiting Shelter Dogs
A friendly competition between Trion City Schools and Chattooga County Schools has resulted in thousands of dollars being raised to help dogs at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter.
According to the Friends of the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, the schools’ “Battle of the Beds” fundraiser generated enough money to replace some of the shelter’s most-needed items — raised beds for shelter dogs.
Shelter officials say raised beds provide dogs with a clean, comfortable place to rest and help keep them off cold concrete floors and away from waste while kennel cleaning is underway. Many of the shelter’s existing beds are several years old and in poor condition, with some missing legs, containing holes, or no longer standing properly.
Trion City Schools won the fundraising competition, raising $3,018.46. Chattooga County Schools also contributed significantly, raising $2,422.
Animal shelter supporters expressed gratitude to students, families, teachers, staff, alumni, and community members from both school systems who participated in the effort.
Organizers emphasized that while the competition produced a winner, the true beneficiaries are the shelter dogs, who will soon have new beds and a more comfortable environment while awaiting adoption and their forever homes.
Photos of the new beds are expected to be shared once they arrive and are put into use at the shelter.
Camp Season Underway For Scouting America’s Northwest Georgia Council
Summer camp season is officially underway for Scouting America’s Northwest Georgia Council, with hundreds of Scouts preparing for weeks of outdoor adventure, learning, and leadership development at Camp Sidney Dew.
The council’s 2026 summer camp program begins June 7 and includes three week-long sessions running through June 27 at the historic camp, which has served Scouts in Northwest Georgia for decades. Camp Sidney Dew offers opportunities for Scouts to earn merit badges, participate in aquatics, shooting sports, outdoor skills, nature programs, and other activities designed to build confidence and leadership.
Located in the foothills of the Appalachians north of Rome, Camp Sidney Dew encompasses more than 650 acres and serves Scouts from across the region. The Northwest Georgia Council serves youth and families in Chattooga, Floyd, Gordon, Polk, Bartow, Murray, and Whitfield counties.
Council officials say summer camp remains one of the most important experiences in Scouting, giving young people opportunities to develop outdoor skills, build friendships, and create lifelong memories while enjoying the natural beauty of Northwest Georgia.
The Northwest Georgia Council also continues to offer year-round camping, training programs, and activities for Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA members, Venturers, and Explorers throughout the region.
Walker County Enacts New Spay And Neuter Ordinance
Walker County pet owners are now required to have their dogs and cats spayed or neutered under a newly approved county ordinance.
The Walker County Board of Commissioners recently amended the county’s Animal Code to include spay and neuter requirements for dogs and cats six months of age or older.
County Animal Services Director Bailey Clements said the move is aimed at reducing pet overpopulation. According to Clements, the county shelter took in more than 2,000 dogs and cats last year, and fewer than 9% had been spayed or neutered.
The ordinance includes exemptions for licensed commercial breeders or pet dealers, animals that cannot be altered for medical reasons with documentation from a veterinarian, and working animals used for farming, herding, hunting, service, law enforcement, or show purposes.
Residents who choose not to spay or neuter their pets must obtain an annual Unaltered Animal License. The license will be issued as a metal tag that must be attached to the animal’s collar and worn at all times.
The fee is $50 for cats and $100 for dogs. County officials say proceeds will support Walker County’s spay and neuter voucher program, which currently has nearly 500 residents on a waitlist.
The ordinance and licensing program will be reviewed by the Board of Commissioners at its November 5, 2026 meeting.
Annual Health Initiative For Men And Women Planned For August In Rome
The Northwest Georgia Regional Cancer Coalition and the 100 Black Men of Rome-Northwest Georgia are encouraging residents across Northwest Georgia to make plans now to attend the 24th Annual Health Initiative for Men and Women on Saturday, August 15.
The annual event will be held from 8 a.m. until noon at the Floyd County Health Department, located at 16 East 12th Street in Rome. Organizers say the initiative is designed to promote preventive healthcare, early detection, and community wellness through a variety of free health services and educational opportunities.
The Health Initiative for Men and Women has grown into one of the region’s most recognized community health events, bringing together healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents from throughout Northwest Georgia. The event is expected to feature free health screenings, health education resources, vendors, expert advice, and giveaways for attendees.
Organizers stress that regular screenings and preventive care remain critical in the fight against cancer and other serious health conditions. The Northwest Georgia Regional Cancer Coalition works throughout a 15-county region to increase awareness, education, prevention, screening, and access to healthcare resources.
The 100 Black Men of Rome-Northwest Georgia partners with the coalition and other community organizations each year to host the event as part of its ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes and quality of life across the region.
Additional information about available screenings and registration opportunities is expected to be released closer to the event date. Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars and take advantage of the free health resources that will be available on August 15.
Chattooga High Welders Bring Home Second-Place National Finish
The Chattooga High School Welding Fabrication Team has earned a remarkable second-place finish at the SkillsUSA National Championships, representing the State of Georgia against the nation’s top career and technical education students.
The Chattooga team consisted of Cooper Hampton, Skyler Ward, and Landon Dawson, who competed in the highly competitive Welding Fabrication event and brought home a national silver medal.
The SkillsUSA National Championships, held as part of the National Leadership & Skills Conference, is considered the premier workforce development event for career and technical education students in the United States. More than 6,500 state champions from across the country competed in 115 skilled and leadership events, all designed to showcase real-world workforce skills.
Industry professionals and employers develop and judge the competitions, ensuring students are evaluated on the same skills and standards currently demanded in today’s workforce.
The week-long event attracts nearly 20,000 attendees, including middle school, high school, and college students, instructors, administrators, and industry partners. In addition to the competitions, participants take part in leadership training, the Champions Festival, and the SkillsUSA TECHSPO, the nation’s largest technical education trade show.
The competition was held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, which has been selected as the long-term host site for the National Leadership & Skills Conference through 2033.
The national runner-up finish highlights the talent, dedication, and hard work of Chattooga High School’s welding students and their instructors, while placing Chattooga County among the top welding programs in the nation.
Arrest Report - Friday - June 5, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, June 5, 2026:
Sunny Weekend Ahead Before Summer Storm Chances Return Next Week
Residents across Chattooga County and the surrounding counties of Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama can look forward to another stretch of pleasant early June weather through the weekend.
High pressure remains firmly in control across the Southeast, bringing dry conditions, abundant sunshine, and seasonable temperatures through Saturday. Afternoon highs today will climb into the mid-80s across much of the region, with temperatures edging a few degrees warmer on Saturday. Some locations could approach 90 degrees during the afternoon hours, especially in lower elevations.
Other than a few passing high clouds, skies should remain mostly sunny, making for excellent conditions for outdoor activities, sporting events, and weekend travel.
The weather pattern will begin to shift late in the weekend as moisture gradually returns to the area. By Monday and continuing through much of next week, Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama will see increasing chances for the typical summertime afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms.
Forecasters expect a more humid air mass to develop across the region, bringing a return to scattered, mainly heat-of-the-day thunderstorms. While widespread severe weather is not anticipated at this time, residents should be prepared for brief downpours, lightning, and localized gusty winds with stronger storms.
Temperatures next week will remain near normal for early June, with daytime highs generally in the 80s and overnight lows in the 60s to near 70 degrees.
For now, the forecast offers a beautiful start to the weekend before a more typical summer pattern settles back into the region next week.
New River Information Kiosks Installed in Trion, Lyerly and Chattoogaville
River enthusiasts now have access to new information kiosks designed to improve safety, navigation, and awareness along the Chattooga River.
The Chattooga River Group announced this week that new informational displays have been installed at existing kiosks in Trion, Lyerly, and Chattoogaville through a partnership with the Town of Lyerly, the Town of Trion, and the Trion Recreation Department.
According to the organization, the kiosks provide valuable information for paddlers and other river users, including maps of nearby river routes, safety information, river-use etiquette, and links to online resources.
The project is intended to help local municipalities maintain updated information for residents and visitors who use the river for recreation.
Chattooga River Group officials said the kiosks are designed to enhance the experience of river users while also helping connect them with additional outdoor recreation opportunities and watershed organizations throughout the region.
The information boards were installed this week and are now available for public use at the three locations.
The Chattooga River continues to be a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and other outdoor recreation activities throughout northwest Georgia.
Dog Shooting Incident Reported in Summerville
The Summerville Police Department is investigating an incident in which a dog was shot and later died from its injuries following a dispute between two Chattooga County residents.
According to police reports, officers were dispatched to 32 Suzie Lane on May 31 after receiving a complaint regarding a dog that had been shot.
The dog’s owner, Shane Ray Sword, 36, of Summerville, told officers that his black Labrador mix had gone down the street near a local church before returning with a gunshot wound to its right front shoulder. The dog later died. Sword told police the dog was not aggressive toward people or other animals and alleged that Jacob Caldwell, 31, of Summerville, had shot the animal.
Police later spoke with Caldwell, who acknowledged shooting the dog. According to the report, Caldwell stated the dog had entered his property and was growling at him and his dogs. He told officers he fired a shot into the dog’s shoulder in an effort to stop the animal and protect his pets.
Caldwell further told police there had been a prior incident involving the same dog. According to statements included in the report, he claimed the dog had previously come onto his property and killed one of his puppies during the winter months.
In a supplemental report filed June 1, Caldwell provided officers with video footage that reportedly showed the dog on his property near his driveway shortly before the shooting. Police also reviewed Chattooga County E-911 records and found documentation of a December 25, 2025 call involving allegations that a dog belonging to Sword had killed one of Caldwell’s dogs.
The video footage and CAD records were added to the case file, according to police.
The incident has been documented by the Summerville Police Department as an information-only report. No criminal charges were listed in the reports released by authorities, and officers advised those involved that any further action regarding the dispute would need to be pursued through magistrate court.
All individuals involved are presumed innocent unless and until proven otherwise in a court of law.
Community Yard Sale & BBQ Fundraiser Set for June 12-13 in Summerville
Local residents will have an opportunity to enjoy great food, shop for bargains, and support a worthy cause during a Community Yard Sale and BBQ Fundraiser benefiting foster children and families in Chattooga County.
Up N Smoke BBQ is partnering with Flourish Foster Care Closet & Support, Inc. for a two-day fundraising event at 141 W. Washington Street in Summerville. Organizers say all proceeds will go directly toward supporting local foster children and families.
The event will take place:
- Friday, June 12: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Saturday, June 13: 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Visitors can browse a large community yard sale while enjoying barbecue prepared by Up N Smoke BBQ.
BBQ plates will be available for $15 each, with two options:
- BBQ, baked beans, slaw, and a roll
- Loaded BBQ smoked potato
BBQ sandwiches, chips, and cold drinks will also be available for purchase.
Advance tickets are available by calling 706-676-8443, allowing customers to reserve their preferred menu choice.
According to organizers, every dollar raised helps provide clothing, essentials, and support services for foster children and families in the community.
The public is encouraged to come out, enjoy a meal, shop the sale, and support the mission of helping local children and families flourish.
Mentone Woman Loses $25,000 in Bitcoin Scam After Receiving Fraudulent Phone Calls
The Summerville Police Department is investigating a fraud case after a woman reported losing $25,000 in a scheme involving callers who falsely claimed her bank account had been compromised.
According to a police report, the victim, Karen Patrice Martin, 65, of Mentone, Alabama, told officers she was contacted on her cellphone by a foreign-speaking man who claimed her Truist Bank account had been linked to child pornography activity.
The caller allegedly told Martin that immediate action was needed to resolve the issue and informed her that he already possessed her account information.
According to the report, the caller instructed Martin to travel to a local business in Summerville and use a Bitcoin kiosk to transfer money. Police said Martin went to Amoco at 10380 Commerce Street and completed a Bitcoin transaction totaling $25,000 on June 1.
The victim later provided officers with receipts documenting both the Bitcoin purchase and the withdrawal of funds from her Truist Bank account used to complete the transaction.
Police reports indicate Martin also received phone calls from individuals claiming to represent the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). One caller reportedly provided a case number, while another supplied what was described as an authorization number as part of the scheme.
The incident has been classified as identity fraud by impersonation, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Law enforcement officials continue to warn the public that legitimate government agencies and financial institutions do not demand payment through Bitcoin, gift cards, wire transfers, or other unconventional payment methods. Residents are encouraged to verify any suspicious calls independently before providing personal information or sending money.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted by a similar scam should contact local law enforcement immediately.
GNTC, Floyd County Prison Partnership Opens Career Pathways for Offenders
A partnership between Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) and Floyd County Prison is helping incarcerated individuals prepare for successful reentry into society through education and workforce training.
During a graduation ceremony held May 29, GNTC and Floyd County Prison recognized 14 offenders who earned their High School Equivalency (HSE) diplomas, five who completed training in Shielded Metal Arc and Flux Core Welding, and five who obtained their Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Guest speaker Steven Roebuck encouraged graduates to take advantage of the opportunities their accomplishments have created.
“You now hold keys to opportunities that you didn’t have before—keys to better jobs, keys to better living, keys to a better future,” Roebuck said. “The possibilities are now endless.”
Roebuck, who previously served nearly seven years at Floyd County Prison over two separate incarcerations, now serves as the prison’s chaplain and works as the Water and Sewer Maintenance Supervisor for the City of Cave Spring. He told graduates that personal success comes through hard work and making positive choices.
“Our past can only hold us back if we allow it,” Roebuck said.
The programs are part of an ongoing collaboration between GNTC and Floyd County Prison designed to equip offenders with practical skills before their release. Previous offerings have included CDL training, welding instruction, High School Equivalency preparation, and basic business and computer skills courses.
The initiative aligns with efforts by Gov. Brian Kemp to improve offender reentry outcomes by expanding access to education, job training, identification documents, and records of completed programs.
Correctional Officer Judith Gilmer, who delivered the ceremony’s welcome and closing remarks, urged graduates to continue learning beyond the classroom.
“Learning is a never-ending sequence of events and does not stop because you graduated today,” Gilmer said. “Whatever you want out of life, you now know that you can achieve it through the same hard work that you used to earn your certificates.”
Gilmer also challenged graduates to share their knowledge and encourage others facing similar obstacles.
Funding for the welding and Class B CDL training programs was provided through a grant from Truist Bank.
Summerville Man Charged With DUI Following Traffic Stop
A Summerville man faces multiple charges following a traffic stop conducted by the Summerville Police Department.
According to citations provided to WZQZ, Antonio Francisco Tomas, 37, of Summerville, was charged with Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and Failure to Maintain Lane.
The citations indicate the incident occurred on Sixth Avenue within the city limits of Summerville. The reporting officer noted that Tomas was operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and was considered less safe to drive. The citation states that a breath test showed a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit.
A separate citation alleges that Tomas failed to maintain a single lane of travel and was involved in a vehicle accident while impaired.
The case is scheduled to be heard in Summerville Municipal Court at a later date.
Recent Rains Bring Much-Needed Drought Relief to Northwest Georgia
Weeks of steady rainfall have brought encouraging news for Northwest Georgia, helping ease drought conditions that have plagued the region for months.
According to the latest information from the U.S. Drought Monitor and Georgia climate officials, recent storms have improved drought conditions across much of North Georgia. Statewide, the percentage of Georgia experiencing extreme or exceptional drought dropped significantly in late May as rainfall replenished soil moisture, streams, ponds, and pastures.
Northwest Georgia has been among the areas seeing some of the most noticeable improvement. Reports indicate that much of North Georgia received at least six inches of rain during May, helping reduce rainfall deficits that had built up since late 2025. In many parts of Northwest Georgia, precipitation shortages have been cut to less than five inches, a substantial improvement from earlier this spring.
The improvement comes after an exceptionally dry start to the year that prompted the Georgia Environmental Protection Division to issue a statewide Level 1 drought declaration in April. The drought contributed to low stream levels, stressed pastures, agricultural concerns, and elevated wildfire danger across the state.
While conditions are improving, experts caution that the drought has not been eliminated. The entire state remains under some level of drought or abnormally dry classification, and Georgia’s Environmental Protection Division continues to maintain its Level 1 drought response declaration.
Meteorologists say additional rounds of showers and thunderstorms in recent weeks have helped replenish water supplies and improve soil moisture levels. More rainfall opportunities are expected during the coming weeks, which could continue the recovery process if the pattern remains active.
For farmers, outdoor enthusiasts, and residents who watched creeks, ponds, and fields struggle through the spring drought, the recent rains have been a welcome sight. However, officials note that sustained rainfall over a longer period will be needed before drought conditions completely disappear from Northwest Georgia and the rest of the state.