Arrest Report - Saturday - June 20, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, June 20, 2026:
Weekend Sunshine Gives Way To Increasing Storm Chances Next Week
After a pleasant start to the weekend, Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can expect a return to a more active summer weather pattern beginning Sunday afternoon and continuing through much of next week.
Saturday will be one of the better days in the forecast, featuring partly sunny skies and a high near 86 degrees. Light winds and a low around 68 Saturday night will make for comfortable evening conditions.
The weather pattern begins to change on Sunday as moisture increases across the region. While much of the morning should remain dry, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop during the afternoon and become more widespread later in the day. Rain chances increase to 60 percent Sunday afternoon and continue Sunday night.
The unsettled pattern is expected to persist through at least Tuesday, with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms. Monday currently appears to be the wettest day of the forecast period, with an 80 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Some storms could produce heavy downpours, frequent lightning, and brief gusty winds.
Rain chances remain elevated Tuesday before gradually decreasing during the second half of the week. By Thursday and Friday, only isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms are expected, with temperatures remaining seasonably warm in the mid-80s.
Residents planning outdoor activities this weekend should take advantage of the drier weather on Saturday and stay alert for changing conditions beginning Sunday afternoon.
Chill & Churn Ice Cream Contest and Dairy Day Underway Today at the Depot
Ice cream lovers and rail fans have a sweet treat waiting for them today as the City of Summerville hosts its annual Chill & Churn Homemade Ice Cream Contest and Dairy Day at the Summerville Train Depot.
The event runs from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and features homemade ice cream competitions, tasting opportunities, vendors, family-friendly activities, and the arrival of a steam engine train carrying passengers.
Registration for participants begins at 10:30 a.m., with contests getting underway at 11 a.m. Visitors can watch competitors test their skills in homemade ice cream making and age-division ice cream eating contests.
Cash prizes will be awarded in the homemade ice cream competition, including a $500 grand prize sponsored by Meter Service & Sales, LLC. Additional prizes will be awarded for second and third place.
Those attending can also purchase tasting wristbands to sample a variety of homemade ice cream flavors and vote for their favorite in the People’s Choice competition.
The event is free to attend and open to the public at the Summerville Train Depot.
Chattooga County Animal Shelter Seeks Volunteers to Support Local Pets
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is looking for volunteers willing to donate their time and talents to help care for homeless animals and support shelter operations.
Shelter officials say they are currently seeking volunteers to assist with answering phones for short shifts throughout the week. Volunteers in this role help direct calls, answer questions from the public, and provide friendly customer service to visitors and callers.
The shelter is also looking for social media volunteers who enjoy photography, videography, and creating online content. Photos, videos, and social media posts play a vital role in helping adoptable animals gain visibility and connect with potential families.
Organizers say there is a volunteer opportunity for nearly everyone, whether helping behind a desk or behind a camera. Community members interested in making a difference are encouraged to get involved and support the shelter’s mission.
Those interested in volunteering can text the word “Volunteer” to 210-380-1759, send a message to the shelter, or stop by in person.
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is located at 464 Red Oak Road in Summerville.
Trion Athletics Announces New Weightroom Coming in 2026
Trion Athletics has announced plans for a new state-of-the-art weightroom, scheduled for completion in October 2026.
The new facility will serve male and female athletes across Trion’s athletic programs, as well as students taking weight training classes at Trion High School.
School leaders say the project is designed to give Trion students and student-athletes access to top-quality training resources. Trion Athletics also thanked the Superintendent, Board of Education, and Athletic Administration for helping make the project possible.
Officials say the investment reflects the school system’s continued commitment to ensuring Trion Bulldogs have the very best resources available.
Spark Day Set for June 27 at Dowdy Park to Connect Families With Resources and Support
A new community event aimed at supporting individuals with special needs and their families is coming to Summerville later this month.
Spark Day will be held Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Dowdy Park. Organizers say more than 40 vendors and resource providers have already signed up to participate, offering information, services, and support for families from across Northwest Georgia.
The free event will feature food, family activities, and opportunities to connect with organizations serving the special needs community. Attendees can enjoy free nachos and burgers, a foam party for children, and a special appearance by Bluey.
Organizers say Spark Day is designed to help families find resources they may need while also connecting supporters, volunteers, and community partners with local organizations working to serve individuals with disabilities and special needs.
The event is being organized through Speak Life, which plans to host monthly meetings and expand programming in the future. Organizers hope to launch quarterly Special Olympics-style events for adults, children during the summer, and homeschooled students. Plans are also underway for a Night to Shine event at Connect City next February.
Looking ahead, organizers hope Spark Day will become an annual tradition that continues to grow each year. Long-term goals include developing a wheelchair- and walker-accessible covered playground area to provide more inclusive recreational opportunities for the community.
Everyone from across Northwest Georgia is invited to attend and bring the entire family for a day of fun, fellowship, and community support.
Social Security Warns Americans to Watch for Elder Abuse and Imposter Scams
The Social Security Administration is urging Americans to watch for signs of elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and fraud as scammers continue targeting older adults across the country.
The warning comes as federal agencies mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and promote the “Never EVER” anti-scam campaign.
Officials say elder abuse can include physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and government imposter scams. In those scams, criminals may contact victims by phone, text message, email, letter, or social media while pretending to represent a government agency.
Federal officials warn that scammers often use fear and urgency to pressure people into sharing personal information or sending money. They may claim benefits will be suspended, legal action is pending, or money must be moved to a “safe” account.
The Social Security Administration says government employees will never demand payment through gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or payment apps. They will also never tell someone to move money in order to protect it.
Officials encourage families to stay in regular contact with older loved ones, friends, and neighbors and to watch for unusual financial activity, sudden changes in behavior, isolation, or signs of neglect.
Anyone who receives an unexpected message claiming to be from a government agency should not click links or call phone numbers included in the message. Instead, officials say people should verify the information by contacting the agency directly using a known, trusted phone number or website.
Farm Bureau Seeking Nominations for 2027 Veteran Farmer Award
The American Farm Bureau Federation is accepting applications for its 2027 Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence, recognizing military veterans and active-duty service members who have found success in agriculture while making a positive impact in their communities.
Supported by Farm Credit, the award honors individuals who have carried the values of military service into farming and ranching, including leadership, hard work, problem-solving, and service to others.
The winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize, along with reimbursement for travel and related expenses to attend the 2027 American Farm Bureau Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The 2026 recipient was retired Army Command Sergeant Major Matthew Rutter of South Carolina. Following a 22-year military career, Rutter co-founded Project Victory Gardens and created Farmer Bootcamp, a program designed to help fellow veterans explore careers and opportunities in agriculture.
Applications for the 2027 award are due September 1. Farm Bureau membership is not required to apply.
Additional information and application details are available through the American Farm Bureau Federation.
Georgia Insurance Commissioner Opens Investigation Into State Patrol ‘PIT for Pay’ Scandal
Georgia’s Office of the Commissioner of Insurance has opened an investigation into the Georgia State Patrol’s so-called “PIT for Pay” scandal involving former troopers who allegedly profited from insurance claims tied to crashes they caused during vehicle pursuits.
The investigation follows the firing of four Georgia State Patrol troopers who were found to have pursued personal injury settlements after performing PIT maneuvers, a law enforcement tactic used to stop fleeing vehicles by intentionally causing them to spin out.
According to records released during the investigation, three former troopers received nearly $100,000 in combined insurance settlements. A fourth trooper was fired for failing to report the practice and attempting to participate himself.
One case involved former Trooper Hunter Waters, who reportedly received a $25,000 insurance settlement following a pursuit-related crash involving a vehicle owned by Latesha Banks. Banks was not driving the vehicle and was not present when the crash occurred.
Banks says she later learned of the insurance claim and has since faced higher insurance premiums despite not being responsible for the incident. She is seeking to have the settlement money returned and her insurance costs reduced.
Internal investigations found that multiple former troopers referred pursuit-related crashes to an attorney and obtained settlements through insurance claims.
The four troopers involved were terminated for violating department policy and ethical standards. No criminal charges have been filed.
The Office of the Commissioner of Insurance continues to investigate the matter, while some insurance companies involved are reportedly reviewing their legal options.
Summerville Montessori School Announces Limited Georgia Pre-K Openings
Summerville Montessori School is now accepting applications for a limited number of free Georgia Pre-K openings for the 2026–2027 school year.
The program is open to children who will be four years old on or before September 1 and will operate Tuesday through Friday during the school year.
School officials say the program combines Georgia Pre-K standards with Montessori-inspired learning, giving children opportunities to build independence, confidence, curiosity, and early academic skills in a nurturing, child-centered environment.
Students will take part in hands-on learning experiences focused on practical life skills, sensorial exploration, language and early literacy, mathematics, cultural studies, and social and emotional development.
Summerville Montessori School says its program is founded on faith, hope, and love, while encouraging children to develop responsibility, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning.
Enrollment is limited, and available openings are expected to fill quickly.
Families interested in learning more, scheduling a tour, or beginning the enrollment process are encouraged to contact Summerville Montessori School by text at 657-670-1840 or by email at courtneyscoggins.montessori@outlook.com.
Water Service Interruption Expected in Hwy 48 Area
Some City of Summerville water customers may experience low water pressure or no water service today due to a scheduled Georgia Power outage.
The outage is set to begin at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, and will affect the city’s water pump station located on Highway 48.
Areas that may be impacted include Peach Orchard Road, Highway 48, Hairlake Road, and Beavers Road.
City officials say the estimated restoration time is approximately three hours.
Anyone with questions can contact the City of Summerville Maintenance Department at 706-859-0907.
Arrest Report - Friday - June 19, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, June 19, 2026:
Juneteenth Brings Sunshine Before Stormier Pattern Returns
After a mostly cloudy start to the Juneteenth holiday, skies will gradually clear across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this afternoon. Temperatures are expected to top out near 86 degrees, with light winds making for a comfortable day.
Clouds will increase again overnight, with temperatures falling to around 64 degrees. The pleasant weather continues into Saturday, with mostly sunny skies and another afternoon high near 86 degrees.
The forecast takes a wetter turn beginning Sunday. While much of the day will remain warm and partly sunny, showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop during the afternoon and evening hours. Rain chances increase further Sunday night and continue through Monday, when widespread showers and thunderstorms are likely across the region.
The unsettled weather pattern lingers into next week, with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms from Tuesday through Thursday. Despite the increased rain chances, temperatures are expected to remain seasonably warm, with highs generally in the mid-80s.
Residents planning outdoor activities this weekend may want to take advantage of the dry weather through Saturday before keeping a close eye on the forecast as storm chances increase Sunday and Monday.
Strictly Skynyrd To Close Out Summerville’s Friday Night Concert Series
Summerville’s Natural Gas Friday Night Concert Series wraps up tonight, Friday, June 19, with a free downtown concert featuring Strictly Skynyrd, a premier Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band.
The concert, sponsored by Summerville Main Street, will be held on East Washington Street in the downtown Entertainment District. Music begins at 7 PM, with local favorite The Hwy 27 Band opening the show.
Strictly Skynyrd will perform Lynyrd Skynyrd favorites including “What’s Your Name,” “Gimme Three Steps,” “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Freebird.” The band uses period-correct instruments to help recreate the look and sound of 1970s Lynyrd Skynyrd.
East Washington Street will close from US 27/Commerce Street to Regions Bank beginning at 3:15 PM and will remain closed until 11 PM.
Entertainment District rules will apply. Alcoholic beverages must be purchased only from permitted businesses, including Jefferson’s and Dos Magueys, and must be served in an approved clear 16-ounce specialty cup with the proper City of Summerville sticker. Beverages must stay within the Entertainment District.
Guests may not bring their own alcohol, refill their own cups, take alcoholic beverages outside the district, drink from unapproved cans, bottles or glass, or consume alcohol under the age of 21.
The public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy an evening of live music downtown. The event is family-friendly.
Georgia Highlands College To Celebrate Community Impact Day June 26
Georgia Highlands College is inviting students, employees, alumni, families and community members to a special Community Impact Day celebration on Friday, June 26, at its Floyd Campus in Rome.
The event will be held from 11 AM until 1 PM and will commemorate three major milestones: welcoming accepted students, celebrating the college’s impact on the region, and recognizing the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The celebration comes as Georgia Highlands College marks a historic achievement of serving more than 250,000 community members since its founding. In recognition of that milestone, the college has received proclamations and letters of commendation from local governments throughout its service area, members of the Georgia General Assembly and Governor Brian Kemp.
The free event will feature a community cookout, an apple pie contest, music, games and family-friendly activities. Attendees will also have the opportunity to take photos in front of what organizers describe as the “World’s Largest American Flag.”
In addition, guests can explore a Community Impact Showcase featuring interactive displays highlighting the college’s role in workforce development, economic growth and educational opportunities across Northwest Georgia.
Organizers are encouraging attendees to wear red, white and blue as part of the patriotic celebration.
The event will also recognize students who have been accepted to Georgia Highlands College and will begin their college careers this fall.
Community Impact Day will take place at the Georgia Highlands College Floyd Campus, located at 3175 Cedartown Highway in Rome.
Georgia Surpasses 5 Million Jobs As Unemployment Rate Falls To 3.4 Percent
The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the state has reached a major economic milestone, surpassing 5 million jobs for the first time in state history.
According to the latest labor report, Georgia recorded 5,002,400 jobs in May, an all-time high. The state’s labor force also reached a record 5,470,704, while total employment climbed to a new high of 5,283,862.
Georgia’s unemployment rate fell to 3.4 percent in May, down from a revised 3.5 percent in April and well below the national unemployment rate.
“Five million jobs, an all-time high labor force, and record employment in a single month: This is what a modern, adaptable economy looks like when it works for all Georgians,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes.
The state added 6,900 jobs during May and has now experienced job growth for three consecutive months. Employment increased by more than 56,000 jobs over the past year.
Among the industries posting the largest gains in May were accommodation and food services, administrative and support services, transportation and warehousing, local government and state government.
Over the past year, health care and social assistance led all sectors with nearly 25,000 new jobs added statewide.
The labor department also reported that initial unemployment claims declined in May, another sign of continued strength in Georgia’s workforce and economy.
Juneteenth Celebrates Freedom And Marks A Pivotal Moment In American History
Today, Friday, June 19, 2026, communities across the United States are observing Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.
Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that enslaved African Americans were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. The day is recognized as a time to reflect on freedom, history and the continuing pursuit of equality.
Locally, Chattooga County government offices are closed today in observance of the holiday. Municipal offices in Summerville, Trion, Lyerly and Menlo are also closed. Banks, post offices and many other government offices across the nation are not operating today.
However, Chattooga County officials remind residents that the Chattooga County Transfer Station and all county dumpsites will remain open and operate on their regular schedules throughout the holiday.
Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021 and is celebrated nationwide with educational events, community gatherings, cultural programs and opportunities to reflect on an important chapter in American history.
Summerville Police Investigating Theft Of Wheels And Tires From Vehicle
The Summerville Police Department is investigating the theft of wheels and tires from a vehicle at a local auto dealership.
According to the incident report, the theft involved a white 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer located at a dealership property on Martin Street. The stolen property was listed as four wheels and tires removed from the vehicle.
Police documented the theft and advised the vehicle owner that the case would be turned over to investigators. Officers also indicated that extra patrols would be conducted in the area as the investigation continues.
No suspects had been identified at the time of the report, and the case remains under investigation by the Summerville Police Department.
Woman Arrested On Criminal Trespass Charge In Summerville
A woman was arrested on a criminal trespass charge after allegedly returning to a property from which she had previously been banned, according to the Summerville Police Department.
Police identified the suspect as Sandy Waynette Wilson, 48, of Summerville.
According to the report, officers learned Wilson had been criminally trespassed from the property approximately 13 days earlier and was prohibited from being there. After confirming that information through dispatch, officers placed Wilson under arrest and transported her to the Chattooga County Jail.
The charge listed in the report is criminal trespass. The case was handled by the Summerville Police Department.
Argument During Child Exchange Leads To Police Response In Summerville
Summerville Police officers responded to a reported disturbance involving a child custody exchange at a residence on Carol Drive.
According to the incident report, a disagreement arose regarding the transportation of bicycles during a child exchange between family members. Police spoke with those involved and determined the situation was a civil matter.
The report states that an argument occurred between family members over where the bicycles would be transported. Officers mediated the dispute, and after several phone calls, the parties reached an agreement regarding the bicycles.
No criminal charges were filed, and the incident was cleared following mediation by the Summerville Police Department.