The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Commercial Gambling Unit has identified widespread violations of state law involving illegal cash payouts from Coin-Operated Amusement Machines (COAM) at 32 businesses in Rome and Floyd County. The violations, uncovered during an undercover operation that began last March, resulted in citations issued to the businesses and the immediate disabling of the implicated machines. The GBI, supported by the Rome Police Department, targeted businesses across the city and county.

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As immigration policies continue to dominate national headlines, the spotlight shines on Northwest Georgia, where three sheriffs’ offices maintain agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Floyd, Whitfield, and Polk Counties currently participate in the 287(g) program, an agreement that compensates local law enforcement agencies for housing immigration detainees.

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A former Hays Correctional Officer was sentenced to 87 months in prison this week for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine and bribery. His plea for leniency, claiming military injuries, was found false. He smuggled drugs while working as a prison guard and received bribes from inmates.

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A legal battle over a permit issued for four poultry houses in the Gore Community continues in Chattooga County, with Judge Don Thompson hearing arguments yesterday in Superior Court.

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Last weekend, the Cloverleaf Project Achievement event showcased the talent and hard work of local 4-H participants. Held at Georgia Highlands College, this event is one of the most significant programs offered by Georgia 4-H, designed to engage students in grades 4-6 in hands-on learning and public speaking.

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In a hearing at the Chattooga County Superior Court this morning, Rocking S. Farms LLC faced off against the county government in a dispute over the construction of four chicken houses in Gore. The case centers around a permit obtained last year by farmer Dustin Smith, who has begun preparations for the poultry houses on land he claims to have been rightfully authorized to develop.

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According to a report released last week by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a disturbance call at 300 Perennial Springs Rd on the evening of January 31, where a 46-year-old white female, identified as Heather Nicole Mocool, was arrested for being a pedestrian under the influence.

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A legal dispute is set to take place this morning at the Chattooga County courthouse, involving a Floyd County farmer, Dustin Smith, who is looking to build chicken houses in the Gore Community, neighboring landowners, and the county government. Rocking S. Farms LLC is seeking a court order against the county’s efforts to stop the construction of four chicken houses on Smith’s property. Smith obtained a permit last year, which former Commissioner Blake Elsberry claims was properly followed, while current Commissioner Andy Allen insists all regulations were not adhered to. Neighboring landowners, unhappy with the permit process, have hired legal counsel. They are concerned about the buildings’ location near a trout stream, homes, and a gas line. Summerville City Manager Jason Winters has expressed worry about potential risks linked to the gas line. The case will be heard at 10 AM in Chattooga County Superior Court, where each party will present its arguments.

The Chattooga Indians Varsity Boys basketball team finished their regular season with a strong win against Armuchee, ending with a score of 69-45. This victory brought their overall record to 21-4 and a region play record of 14-2. As they prepare for the upcoming region tournament at Gordon Central next week, players and fans are filled with excitement. The team has shown great talent, teamwork, and resilience all season. Several players have received recognition for their performances, with Dan Meyer named Player of the Year for his leadership and skills. Quarry Gibson was honored as a 1st Team selection, DJ Etchison earned 2nd Team honors, and Koi Dodd received Honorable Mention for his hard work.  The #2 Chattooga Varsity Boys will be in the semifinals in 7 AM Regional Tournament play this Thursday evening.  Meanwhile, the #3 Chattooga Varsity Girls basketball team will be taking on the winner of the Coosa vs. Dade County game that taking place this evening.  The Chattooga Varsity Girls will play tomorrow evening at 7:30 PM.  All Region 7A playoff tournament games are taking place at Gordon Central. Four Lady Indians have been selected for Region Honors with Addie Veatch and Gracelyn Rutledge earning First Team All-Region selections. Daysa Martin and Briana Finley received Honorable Mention.  Good luck to the Chattooga Indians as they move forward in the 7A Region Tournament.