Arrest Report - Monday - August 17, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, August 17, 2026:
Dangerous Heat Continues Monday With Strong Storms Possible In North Georgia
Dangerous heat will remain the biggest weather concern across Northwest Georgia today, but forecasters are also watching the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms to move into North Georgia later Monday evening.
A Heat Advisory remains in effect through Monday evening, with afternoon temperatures expected to climb into the upper 90s. The local forecast calls for a high near 97 degrees, while the heat index could reach around 105 degrees. Some locations across the region could experience even higher apparent temperatures.
The National Weather Service says several consecutive days of intense heat combined with limited cooling overnight are increasing the risk of heat-related illness. Anyone spending extended periods outdoors should take frequent breaks, drink plenty of water and limit strenuous activity during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Strong Storms Possible Later Monday
There is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms this afternoon, mainly after 3 p.m., but a more organized round of storms could approach North Georgia during the evening and early overnight hours.
Forecasters say atmospheric conditions could support storms capable of producing damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, along with frequent lightning and heavy rainfall.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed portions of far North Georgia under a Slight Risk for severe thunderstorms, with a Marginal Risk extending farther south.
Exactly how far south the stronger storms survive remains uncertain. The storms are expected to weaken as they encounter somewhat drier and less unstable air, particularly after sunset.
Rain and thunderstorm chances increase to 40 percent tonight, mainly before midnight. The overnight low will be around 74.
Slight Relief Tuesday
Tuesday should bring at least some improvement following the passage of a frontal boundary.
Skies will be mostly sunny with a high near 93 degrees. Lower humidity should make conditions somewhat less oppressive, although it will remain hot.
Tuesday night will be mostly clear with temperatures dropping to around 69 degrees, providing better overnight relief than the region has experienced during the recent stretch of heat.
Heat Continues Through The Week
Wednesday will be sunny and hot with a high near 96, followed by another mostly clear night with a low around 72.
Thursday will also reach around 96 degrees, with only a 20 percent chance of an afternoon shower or thunderstorm.
Thunderstorm chances begin increasing again Friday and into the weekend. Friday’s high will be near 93 with a 30 percent chance of afternoon storms.
Saturday will bring a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms with a high near 91, while Sunday currently looks sunny with a high around 91.
Despite the approaching front and somewhat lower temperatures, forecasters expect highs to remain in the 90s through the period. Heat index readings could continue reaching 100 to 105 degrees during portions of the work week before conditions gradually become less oppressive.
Summerville Man Accused of Taking Red Dolly From Rome Boulevard Property
A Summerville man was arrested after police say he took a red dolly from another man’s property on Rome Boulevard and later told an officer he wanted to borrow it.
According to a Summerville Police Department incident report, Officer Brandon Lindsey was dispatched to the area of 9300 Rome Boulevard at approximately 10:03 p.m. on August 9 regarding a theft in progress.
Police identified the suspect as Mr. James Simmons.
The report states that the alleged victim, identified as John Porteous, was following Simmons on foot while officers were responding. Dispatch advised officers that Simmons was carrying a stolen red dolly.
When police arrived, an officer located Simmons walking in the roadway while carrying the dolly.
During questioning, Simmons allegedly denied that the dolly belonged to him. When asked if he had taken it from someone else’s property, police say Simmons responded that he had. According to the report, Simmons told the officer, “I wanted to borrow the dolly, and I didn’t want to ask Mr. Porteous because I thought he would say no.”
Porteous told police he had seen Simmons walk onto his property and remove the dolly from the front of his garage. He said he yelled at Simmons, but Simmons allegedly continued walking away with it.
Porteous then contacted 911 and followed Simmons while providing dispatchers with location updates, according to the report.
After Porteous indicated that he wanted to pursue criminal charges, police recovered the dolly and returned it to him.
James Simmons was arrested and charged with one count of Theft by Taking and one count of Criminal Trespass, according to the Summerville Police Department.
He was transported to the Chattooga County Jail for processing without further incident.
Northwest Georgia Inland Port Sets Record With 41% Jump in July Cargo
Northwest Georgia’s Appalachian Regional Port is reporting record-breaking business, with container traffic jumping 41 percent in July as the inland terminal continues to expand its role in connecting the region’s manufacturers and businesses with global markets.
The Georgia Ports Authority says the Appalachian Regional Port in Crandall, Murray County, handled an all-time July high of 4,800 containers. That was nearly 1,400 more containers than the facility handled during July 2025.
Port officials attribute the growth to a combination of new customers and increased business from companies already using the Northwest Georgia facility.
The strong July follows a record fiscal year for the inland port.
During fiscal year 2026, which ended June 30, the Appalachian Regional Port handled 49,319 containers, an increase of more than 8,100 containers, or nearly 20 percent, compared with the previous 12 months.
Connecting Northwest Georgia to Savannah
The Appalachian Regional Port provides Northwest Georgia industries with a direct rail connection to the Port of Savannah.
Located on 42 acres in Murray County, the terminal is served by CSX on a 388-mile direct rail route to and from the Garden City Terminal at the Port of Savannah. The facility has an annual capacity of approximately 75,000 containers, with the ability to expand as demand grows.
The inland port is strategically positioned near Interstate 75 and U.S. Highway 411 and serves industries throughout Georgia as well as portions of Tennessee, Alabama and Kentucky.
For Northwest Georgia, that includes major manufacturing sectors such as carpet and flooring, automobiles, tires and other goods.
One of the biggest advantages is reducing the need for trucks to make the entire trip between Northwest Georgia and the coast.
According to the Georgia Ports Authority, each round-trip container moved by rail through the Appalachian Regional Port eliminates approximately 710 truck miles from Georgia highways.
Savannah Also Reports Growth
The record in Northwest Georgia comes as the Port of Savannah also started its new fiscal year with stronger cargo numbers.
Savannah handled 503,739 twenty-foot equivalent container units, or TEUs, in July, an increase of 5.7 percent compared with July 2025. Exports increased 7.7 percent, while imports were up 5 percent.
Rail traffic also increased at Savannah’s Mason Mega Rail Terminal, which handled 44,981 container lifts during July, about 2 percent more than a year earlier.
The Georgia Ports Authority says containers are moving from ships to trains at Savannah in an average of approximately 20 hours, allowing cargo destined for inland markets such as Northwest Georgia to move quickly away from the coast.
Inland Ports Becoming Bigger Part of Georgia’s Logistics Network
The Appalachian Regional Port opened in 2018 and has steadily grown into an important component of Georgia’s freight transportation system.
The state is now expanding that inland-port model. The $134 million Gainesville Inland Port opened in May, providing another rail-connected cargo facility serving Northeast Georgia and the Atlanta-area manufacturing and logistics corridor.
For the Appalachian Regional Port, however, July’s numbers demonstrate that the original Northwest Georgia inland terminal is continuing to gain business.
With a 41 percent year-over-year increase and the busiest July in the facility’s history, the port is beginning fiscal year 2027 at a pace even stronger than the record-setting year it just completed.
WZQZ Pet of the Week: Meet Simba
This week’s WZQZ Pet of the Week is Simba, a lovable boy waiting at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter for someone to give him a forever home.
Simba is described as the total package, with a gentle and loving temperament and a big “teddy bear” personality.
He enjoys running, playing and having fun, but when playtime is finished, Simba is perfectly happy turning into a couch potato and relaxing by your side.
Shelter staff say Simba would make a wonderful companion for someone looking for a dog who can enjoy an adventure and then come home and settle in for plenty of cuddles.
And Simba’s adoption fee is just $25.
Anyone interested in meeting Simba can visit or contact the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, located at 464 Red Oak Drive in Summerville.
The shelter is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Wednesdays are available by appointment.
For additional information about Simba or other animals available for adoption, call the shelter at 706-857-0679.
If Simba sounds like the companion your family has been looking for, consider stopping by the shelter and meeting this week’s WZQZ Pet of the Week.
Summer Heat Brings Higher Power Bills — And Renewed Scrutiny of Georgia Power Rates
With temperatures pushing into the upper 90s and heat index readings topping 100 degrees across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, air conditioners are working overtime — and many households are seeing the consequences when their electric bills arrive.
But the amount customers pay for that electricity can differ substantially depending on which utility serves their home.
Both Georgia Power and North Georgia EMC serve customers in the local area, and a comparison of their current residential rate structures helps explain why two households using the same amount of electricity may not receive similar bills.
The comparison also comes as Georgia Power continues to face criticism from consumer and environmental advocates over the cumulative effect of rate increases in recent years and concerns about who will ultimately pay for the company’s massive expansion of its electric system.
Summer Usage Can Hit Georgia Power Customers Harder
Georgia Power’s standard residential rate becomes considerably more expensive as electricity consumption increases during the summer.
Under rates in effect beginning June 2026, Georgia Power’s standard residential energy charge for June through September is approximately:
- 8.77 cents per kWh for the first 650 kilowatt-hours
- 14.57 cents per kWh for the next 350 kWh
- 15.08 cents per kWh for electricity used above 1,000 kWh
Those figures are only the basic energy charges. Georgia Power customers also pay a fuel-cost rider — currently about 3.81 cents per kWh during the summer — along with environmental compliance costs and other applicable charges and fees.
That tiered summer structure is particularly important during a heat wave. Once a household passes 1,000 kWh for the month, additional electricity is billed at Georgia Power’s highest standard summer energy tier.
For a family running central air conditioning almost continuously during a string of 95- to 100-degree afternoons, reaching that level of consumption is hardly difficult.
North Georgia EMC Uses A Different Rate Structure
North Georgia EMC’s August 2026 residential rate works differently.
The cooperative charges a $26.56 monthly Grid Support Fee, followed by an energy charge of 8.518 cents per kWh for the first 5,000 kWh. Its August fuel adjustment adds another 2.617 cents per kWh.
That produces a combined energy-and-fuel cost of approximately 11.14 cents per kWh for typical residential consumption, before taxes, outdoor lighting or other applicable charges.
Unlike Georgia Power’s standard summer residential tariff, North Georgia EMC does not jump to a substantially higher energy tier after a household crosses 650 or 1,000 kWh. Its higher energy tier does not begin until consumption exceeds 5,000 kWh.
That difference becomes increasingly significant as summer electricity use climbs.
It is important to note that comparing electric bills is more complicated than simply multiplying kilowatt-hours by an advertised rate. The utilities have different fixed charges, riders, fuel adjustments, franchise fees and other costs, and a customer’s location and rate plan can affect the final bill.
Still, the underlying rate structures show a clear difference: Georgia Power’s standard residential summer rate increases sharply as consumption rises, while North Georgia EMC’s standard residential energy rate remains essentially level through the first 5,000 kWh.
Critics Point To Years Of Georgia Power Increases
The high summer bills arrive after several years of controversy surrounding Georgia Power rates.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported earlier this year that Georgia Power customers experienced six rate increases over roughly three years before the current rate freeze. Critics have particularly focused on the cumulative impact of increases associated with Plant Vogtle, fuel expenses and other utility costs.
Consumer and environmental groups are now raising another concern: the enormous amount of new electricity infrastructure Georgia Power is planning as demand from data centers and other large users grows.
Critics contend residential customers could eventually shoulder some costs associated with that expansion. They have pushed regulators and state lawmakers to ensure large new electricity users pay the costs they create rather than shifting them to existing households and small businesses.
Georgia Power disputes the broader suggestion that customers are being left unprotected.
The company points to steps it and the Georgia Public Service Commission have taken to stabilize rates, including a three-year freeze on base rates approved in 2025. Fuel and storm-cost proceedings are exceptions to that freeze.
Georgia Power also received approval this spring for a rate reduction that took effect in June.
The company says the agreement involving fuel and storm recovery costs will save the typical residential customer using 1,000 kWh approximately $4.04 per month, or about $50 per year. Statewide savings are projected at approximately $285 million annually.
Consumer advocates welcomed the reduction but argued it did not erase broader concerns about affordability and future costs. The AJC reported that advocates remain concerned about customers’ exposure to future fuel, storm and infrastructure expenses.
Same Heat, Different Electric Rates
The differences between the two utilities are especially relevant locally.
North Georgia EMC operates a Trion office and serves portions of Northwest Georgia, while Georgia Power reports more than 185,000 customers throughout its Northwest Georgia region.
Customers generally cannot simply choose between Georgia Power and an EMC based on which one has the cheaper rate. Electric service territories determine which utility serves a particular property.
That means neighbors living only a relatively short distance apart can experience the same 97-degree afternoon, run similar air-conditioning systems and still be billed under significantly different rate structures.
And during prolonged extreme heat, usage matters.
Georgia Power itself acknowledges that summer bills are typically highest because air conditioners operate more frequently. The company says customers using the same amount of electricity as last summer should still benefit from its June 2026 rate reduction, but higher consumption caused by hotter weather can overwhelm those savings.
For households already struggling with groceries, housing, insurance and other expenses, an unusually high electric bill can become another major strain on the family budget.
With oppressive heat expected to continue through early this week, the thermostat is not just controlling the temperature inside Northwest Georgia homes.
For many families, it is also controlling one of the largest bills they will receive this month.
City of Summerville Seeks Bids for Road Work, New Trucks and Wastewater Facility Project
The City of Summerville has posted a series of requests for bids during August, seeking contractors and vendors for projects ranging from street resurfacing and improvements at the wastewater treatment plant to the purchase of several new city trucks.
A review of the city’s August 2026 public notices shows a significant round of municipal purchasing underway, with several bids scheduled to be opened later this month.
One of the largest infrastructure-related solicitations is for road resurfacing. The city is accepting sealed bids for resurfacing work until 2 p.m. Thursday, August 27. Bids will be opened publicly at that time in the Council Room at Summerville City Hall, 120 Georgia Avenue. The city’s solicitation requires bids to remain valid for 60 days following the opening.
The city is also seeking bids for construction of a clear-span metal roof at the city’s wastewater treatment plant. Sealed bids for that project are due at 2 p.m. Thursday, August 20, with the bids to be opened at City Hall immediately following the deadline.
Several of the August bid requests involve the purchase of new vehicles.
One solicitation calls for a Ford F-150 SuperCrew XL 4×4 truck, with sealed bids due by 2 p.m. August 20.
Another seeks a 2027 Ford F-250 Crew Cab 4×4. Bids for that vehicle will be accepted until 2 p.m. August 27 and opened publicly at City Hall.
The city has also advertised for a 2026 or 2027 Ford F-150 4×4 Super Cab, with bids due at 2 p.m. August 27.
In addition, the city’s August postings include a request for a Ford F-450 2027 W4H 4×4 Crew Chassis Cab DRW, along with another F-150 solicitation. The F-450, F-250 and F-150 requests are among the vehicle purchases highlighted by the city on its website this month.
The collection of bid notices reflects spending across several areas of city operations, including streets, utilities and the municipal vehicle fleet.
Under the city’s procurement process, qualified vendors, contractors and service providers may submit competitive bids for municipal projects, public works improvements and city services. The city directs sealed bids to the purchasing agent at Summerville City Hall before the deadline established for each project.
The City of Summerville’s website provides individual bid documents containing specifications and submission requirements for contractors or vendors interested in competing for the work or vehicle purchases.
The current round of bidding does not mean the city has awarded contracts or purchased the vehicles. The notices are requests for competitive bids, with vendors being asked to submit prices and proposals for consideration by the city.
Additional information and bid documents are available through the City of Summerville’s website and its procurement and open bids portal.
Community Resource Center Seeks Help With Roof Replacement
The Community Resource Center of Chattooga is turning to the community for help replacing an aging roof that leaders say has reached the end of its lifespan and could threaten services relied upon by thousands of local families.
The center, located at 50 Eleanor Avenue, has dealt with years of patchwork roof repairs. Now, Executive Director and volunteers say a complete replacement is needed to protect the building and the programs operating inside.
The Community Resource Center provides a number of services to Chattooga County residents, including its food pantry, emergency assistance, senior outreach and community education programs.
“This roof doesn’t just cover a building,” the organization said in announcing the effort. “It protects the people, the food, the volunteers, and the hope that come through our doors every day.”
The fundraising effort received a major boost from Atrium Health Floyd, which has committed $130,000 in matching funds. However, the Community Resource Center must raise another $130,000 to unlock the full match.
If the fundraising goal is reached, the combined money will allow the center to replace the roof and address related structural needs without interrupting services.
Center leaders say the matching opportunity means every contribution can have twice the impact. Donations of any size will be matched dollar-for-dollar until the fundraising goal is reached.
The Community Resource Center has become one of Chattooga County’s most relied-upon nonprofit organizations, distributing food each week, coordinating volunteer efforts and providing a point of contact for families experiencing financial hardship. According to the organization, demand for assistance has continued to grow, increasing the urgency of protecting the facility.
Volunteers describe the building as the “heart of the operation” and say even a temporary closure could disrupt food distribution and other outreach programs.
Donations can be made online at feedchattooga.com. Community members can also contact the Community Resource Center directly for information about donations, sponsorship opportunities or group fundraising efforts.
Scammers Target Consumers With Fake Unclaimed Life Insurance Letters
Consumers are being warned about a scam involving official-looking letters claiming the recipient may be entitled to millions of dollars in unclaimed life insurance money.
The scam has been reported nationwide and typically begins with a letter that appears to come from a law firm. The supposed attorney claims a client with the same last name as the recipient has died without an heir, leaving behind a life insurance policy worth millions of dollars. The recipient is then offered a portion of the money, with the remainder supposedly divided between the law firm and charities.
There is just one problem: the inheritance and life insurance policy do not exist.
The Federal Trade Commission warned consumers in July that the scheme has resurfaced. According to the FTC, the letters are not coming from legitimate attorneys. Instead, scammers are attempting to convince recipients to respond so they can obtain personal or financial information, including Social Security numbers and bank account information. Victims may also be pressured to send money for supposed fees associated with receiving the nonexistent payout.
A recent reported case involved a letter promising a consumer $4.9 million through what was described as a risk-free transaction. Several warning signs helped the recipient recognize the scam, including typographical errors and inconsistencies involving where the letter was mailed and where the supposed law firm was located.
The FTC advises anyone receiving one of these letters not to respond. Consumers should never provide personal or banking information or send money to someone who unexpectedly contacts them with promises of a large financial reward.
Consumers should also independently verify suspicious claims rather than using telephone numbers, email addresses or websites provided in the letter.
Anyone receiving a suspected scam letter can report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Summerville Police Arrest Driver Following Sovereign Citizen Claims
A traffic stop in Summerville resulted in an arrest after police say a driver refused to provide a driver’s license and made statements associated with the “Sovereign Citizen” movement.
According to a Summerville Police Department incident report, Officer B. Campbell was working in the area of Highland Avenue and Third Street at approximately 11:20 p.m. on August 7 when he noticed a black Chevrolet Silverado traveling southbound on Highland Avenue.
The officer reported seeing a “very abrupt stop” in the roadway and was initially unable to determine whether the truck displayed a valid registration. Police say the vehicle entered a nearby parking lot before returning to Highland Avenue northbound.
Officer Campbell then initiated a traffic stop.
According to the report, the truck displayed a custom homemade tag on the rear bumper that read “Moorish American.”
The driver was identified as Mr. Jeremiah Lemont Hicks.
Police say Hicks told the officer that he did not need a driver’s license because he was not “breaking any laws” and was “traveling.”
The officer wrote in the report that he recognized the statements as language sometimes used by people identifying as “Sovereign Citizens.” The report also states Hicks identified himself as a “Moorish American.”
Officer Campbell asked Hicks to provide a driver’s license or another form of identification, but Hicks allegedly refused and asked to speak with a supervisor.
Police say Hicks was then removed from the vehicle and detained. The officer reported that Hicks eventually provided a military veteran identification card, allowing police to confirm his identity.
According to the incident report, a check through Chattooga 911 determined Hicks had a driver’s license, but it was suspended. Police also reported that the vehicle was not registered and did not have valid insurance coverage.
Hicks was placed under arrest for driving without a valid driver’s license, according to the Summerville Police Department.
Police say Hicks requested that Luallen’s Towing Service transport his vehicle rather than leaving it at the location. The report states the vehicle was turned over to the towing company after an inventory search.
Hicks was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without incident.
According to the report, police also issued traffic citations for driving without a valid license, license to be carried and exhibited on demand, operation of an unregistered vehicle, and driving without insurance.
Arrest Report - Sunday - August 16, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, August 16, 2026:
Dangerous Heat Continues For Northwest Georgia
Dangerous summer heat will remain the main weather concern across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia through Monday, with heat index values climbing above 100 degrees and the possibility of strong to severe thunderstorms developing across far North Georgia Monday afternoon and evening.
Sunday will be sunny and hot, with an afternoon high near 97 degrees. The heat index could reach around 102, making it feel several degrees hotter than the actual temperature. Winds will remain light, becoming westerly around 5 mph. Sunday night will be mostly clear with a low near 76.
The National Weather Service says oppressive heat will continue into early next week, with a Heat Advisory remaining in effect through Monday evening. Forecasters indicate additional heat-related advisories or warnings may be needed as the prolonged stretch of extreme temperatures continues.
Monday could be even hotter. The forecast calls for a high near 98 degrees, while the heat index could climb as high as 106 degrees. Some locations across the region could approach or reach 100 degrees for an actual air temperature.
A weather disturbance and frontal boundary approaching the region will also increase thunderstorm chances late Monday. There is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 p.m.
Forecasters say a few storms across far North Georgia could become strong to severe Monday afternoon and evening. The primary concern will be damaging wind gusts of up to 60 mph. Northern Georgia is included in a Marginal Risk, Level 1 of 5, for severe weather, while the Slight Risk, Level 2 of 5, reaches into portions of the far northern counties.
Any thunderstorms that develop could also produce frequent lightning, gusty winds and locally heavy rainfall.
Temperatures remain well above normal through much of the coming week. Tuesday will be sunny with a high near 94, followed by mostly clear conditions Tuesday night and a low near 72. Wednesday will be sunny with a high near 95.
Another chance of afternoon thunderstorms returns Thursday, with a 30 percent chance after 2 p.m. and a high near 95. Rain and thunderstorm chances increase to around 40 percent Friday as a change in the weather pattern begins to bring slightly cooler temperatures.
By Saturday, the high is forecast to be closer to 90 degrees, although scattered showers and thunderstorms will remain possible.
Anyone spending time outdoors Sunday or Monday should take the prolonged heat seriously. Drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in air conditioning or shade, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the afternoon, and never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.
Fairways to Freedom Golf Tournament to Support Recovery Programs in Northwest Georgia
Golfers and community supporters will have an opportunity to hit the course for a cause this fall as Recovery Alive and Connect City Church prepare to host the Fairways to Freedom charity golf tournament.
The tournament is scheduled for Monday, October 19, at Stonebridge Golf Club, with registration opening at 8 a.m. and a shotgun start scheduled for 9 a.m.
Fairways to Freedom serves as a major fundraising effort for Recovery Alive, a faith-based ministry focused on helping individuals and families find lasting freedom from addiction, trauma and other life-controlling struggles.
Recovery Alive describes its approach as centered around “Power. People. Process.”, providing Christ-centered recovery pathways for people dealing with addiction, hurts, habits and hangups.
Money raised through the tournament will support local Recovery Alive programs, including weekly recovery meetings, community outreach and assistance for families navigating the challenges associated with addiction and recovery.
Organizers say every sponsorship and golf entry directly supports programs designed to provide hope, healing, recovery and long-term support in communities across Northwest Georgia.
Connect City Church, a signature ministry of Recovery Alive Inc., is partnering in the event and helping coordinate volunteers, sponsorships and community involvement.
Registration is $125 for an individual golfer or $500 for a four-player team.
Businesses, churches, civic groups and other organizations are also encouraged to participate through sponsorship opportunities. Organizers say sponsorships help cover the cost of holding the tournament, allowing more of the proceeds to go directly toward ministry and recovery programs.
The Fairways to Freedom tournament is designed to bring golfers, community members and supporters together for a day on the course while raising money for programs serving individuals and families affected by addiction and other life challenges.
Summerville Police Investigate Alleged Shoplifting at Dollar General
The Summerville Police Department investigated a reported shoplifting incident at the Dollar General located at Commerce Street and Kelly Street after a store employee reported seeing a man allegedly conceal merchandise and leave without paying.
According to an incident report from the Summerville Police Department, Officer Brandon Lindsey responded to the store on August 7, 2026, and met with store employee Mr. Allen Wells.
The report states that Wells provided surveillance video for the officer to review. While watching the footage, Officer Lindsey reported seeing a male identified as Andrew Burse select a grocery item from an aisle and conceal it in the front of his pants.
According to the report, Burse then allegedly selected a second grocery item and concealed it in the rear of his pants before leaving the business without paying for the items.
Officer Lindsey asked whether the store wanted to pursue criminal charges. According to the report, Wells said he needed to consult with the store manager before making that decision. Wells reportedly indicated that management would likely request a criminal trespass warning against Burse rather than prosecution.
During the investigation, Officer Campbell located Burse near Circle K on Marvin Avenue. Lindsey then met with Burse and spoke with him about the incident.
According to the police report, Burse admitted taking two items from Dollar General without paying. The report states that Burse told officers he was hungry, had recently been released from jail, lacked a support system and was attempting to secure employment at Burger King.
Police advised Burse that he was not permitted to return to the Dollar General pending the business’s decision. Officers also told him law enforcement would follow up after store management determined whether it wanted to pursue charges or issue a formal criminal trespass notice.
Construction Underway on New $400,000 Splash Pad in Summerville
Construction is officially underway on a new splash pad at the Summerville Recreation Department on Highway 100, bringing the city closer to adding another summertime recreation option for local families.
The Summerville City Council approved the project in June after receiving a bid from GameTime totaling $399,928.89. The bid was the only one received by the city and was unanimously approved by the council.
Summerville Recreation Director Adam Wilson said the city worked closely with GameTime to finalize the design and pricing for the new attraction.
“We’ve been working diligently with GameTime, trying to get this perfected and get a really nice splash pad for the community, and we believe that we’ve done so,” Wilson said when the project was discussed in June.
Summerville Mayor Rickey Hughes also thanked Wilson for his work on the project and recognized the effort involved in developing the plans and preparing the bid package.
The new splash pad will feature a free-flow water system, meaning water will move through the splash pad’s features rather than being recirculated. According to city officials, the design is expected to help address both maintenance and public health considerations.
At nearly $400,000, the project represents a significant investment in Summerville’s recreation facilities and will provide another warm-weather activity for children and families using the Highway 100 recreation complex.
With ground now broken and construction underway, city leaders are looking forward to watching the new facility take shape over the coming months.
The project will also give Summerville its own public splash pad option. The nearby Town of Trion currently operates a public splash pad during the summer months for area residents.
Pet Owners Urged to Protect Animals From Dangerous Summer Heat
With oppressive heat continuing across Northwest Georgia, the National Weather Service in Atlanta is reminding pet owners that high temperatures can pose a serious danger to dogs, cats and other animals.
Heat index values have climbed into the triple digits across portions of the region, making it important for pet owners to take extra precautions when animals are outside.
The National Weather Service recommends limiting pets’ time outdoors and making sure they have access to plenty of fresh water. Pets should also have access to a cool, shaded or air-conditioned location where they can escape the heat.
Hot pavement is another concern. Asphalt, concrete and other surfaces exposed to direct sunlight can become much hotter than the surrounding air and can burn an animal’s paws. Pet owners should avoid walking animals across hot pavement, particularly during the hottest part of the afternoon.
The National Weather Service also cautions owners not to rely solely on fans or outdoor kennels to keep pets safe during extreme heat. When temperatures and humidity are high, those measures may not provide enough protection.
Most importantly, never leave or lock a pet inside a vehicle, even for a short period of time. Temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise rapidly and become deadly.
Pet owners should also watch for signs that an animal may be overheating. Excessive panting, drooling, weakness, confusion, vomiting or collapse can indicate a heat-related emergency and require immediate attention.
With dangerous heat expected to remain a concern across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, residents are encouraged to remember that pets are vulnerable to extreme temperatures and depend on their owners to keep them cool, hydrated and safe.
GDOT Seeking Public Input on Rural Walking and Biking Plan
The Georgia Department of Transportation is asking residents to weigh in on a statewide plan aimed at making walking, bicycling and other forms of active transportation safer and better connected in Georgia’s rural communities.
GDOT is currently developing its Rural Statewide Active Transportation Plan, which focuses primarily on small towns and rural areas outside of the state’s major metropolitan planning areas.
Active transportation includes traveling without a traditional motor vehicle, including walking, bicycling and micromobility options such as e-bikes and scooters.
The plan is intended to provide GDOT with a framework for future decisions and investments involving pedestrian and bicycle projects, networks and programs. Among the major goals are improving safety, connectivity and comfort for people traveling on foot or bicycle in rural Georgia.
The planning process began in 2023 and has included analysis of existing conditions, identification of areas where improvements could have the greatest impact and input from residents, local leaders and other stakeholders.
GDOT is now in the final phase of prioritizing strategies, objectives and projects that could guide implementation of the plan.
As part of that process, GDOT is asking the public to review proposed strategies and provide feedback on which initiatives should receive priority.
The plan also includes a proposed Priority Active Transportation Network, designed to help identify communities and corridors where investments could have the greatest impact. Potential improvements could include sidewalks, bicycle-friendly shoulders, bike lanes, shared-use paths and safer crossings.
Public input will help GDOT determine which strategies and actions should move forward as the agency develops its approach to improving walking and bicycling opportunities in rural communities.
Residents interested in participating can visit GDOT’s Rural Statewide Active Transportation Plan website and select “Take Our Survey” to provide feedback HERE
Multi-Employer Job Fair Set for September 22 in Walker County
Job seekers across Northwest Georgia will have an opportunity to connect with multiple employers during an upcoming hiring event in Walker County.
WorkSource Georgia and the Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority will host a multi-employer job fair from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, at the Walker County Civic Center, located at 10052 North Highway 27 in Rock Spring.
Employers from Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, and Walker counties are expected to participate and will be recruiting for a variety of available positions.
Those planning to attend are encouraged to create an individual WorkSource Georgia account before the event at www.worksourcegaportal.com.
Job seekers should also bring multiple copies of their resumes so they can speak with several employers and apply for available opportunities during the fair.
The event provides residents from across the four-county region with a chance to meet directly with employers and learn more about current job openings throughout Northwest Georgia.
Hunters for the Hungry Helps Feed Georgians Through Donated Venison
A Georgia program is turning successful deer harvests into meals for families in need across the state.
The Georgia Wildlife Federation’s Hunters for the Hungry program allows hunters to donate harvested venison, which is then processed and distributed to food banks and other hunger-fighting organizations throughout Georgia.
The program also supports wildlife management efforts. Many landowners already work to control deer populations in order to protect crops, timber and other resources, and Hunters for the Hungry provides a way for that harvested game to benefit local communities.
According to the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the program received more than 140,000 pounds of donated venison last year, providing more than 579,000 meals to Georgians in need.
Supporters say the program combines conservation, responsible wildlife management and food assistance while making use of a valuable source of protein.
Hunters and others interested in supporting the effort can learn more through the Georgia Wildlife Federation’s Hunters for the Hungry program at gwf.org/ghfth.
Museum of LaFayette Seeks Cherokee Artifacts for New Exhibit
The Museum of LaFayette is asking area residents to help preserve and share an important part of Northwest Georgia’s history as it develops a new exhibit focusing on the Cherokee people, their lives, removal, and lasting legacy.
Museum organizers are seeking Cherokee-related artifacts that individuals or families would be willing to loan for the upcoming exhibit. The goal is to help tell the story of the Cherokee Nation and the people who lived in what is now LaFayette and Walker County during that period.
Items being sought include land lottery documents or tickets, Cherokee tools, baskets, pottery, trade goods, ceremonial and everyday objects, photographs, historical documents, and other artifacts connected to the Cherokee Nation and the Trail of Tears.
The exhibit will examine not only the removal of the Cherokee but also their lives and communities before removal and the legacy that continues today.
Local artifacts and documents can provide an especially valuable connection to that history, helping visitors understand that the events surrounding Cherokee removal were not simply part of a distant national story but also took place in communities across Northwest Georgia.
Residents who have Cherokee-related items in family collections or among historical materials are encouraged to consider allowing the museum to display them on loan. Those who are unsure whether an item would be appropriate for the exhibit are also encouraged to contact the museum.
Anyone with an artifact, photograph, document, or other item that may be of interest can contact the Museum of LaFayette at info@museumoflafayette.org.