A Rome woman is facing multiple drug-related charges, including cocaine trafficking, following the execution of a search warrant at a residence on South Elm Street. Staci Marie Robinson, 31, was arrested after authorities discovered a significant quantity of illegal substances and a firearm in her home. According to Floyd County Jail records and the arrest warrant, officers seized approximately 29 grams of cocaine, 149 grams of marijuana, 10 bottles of promethazine, clonazepam pills, a digital scale, and packaging materials during the search. Robinson, a convicted felon, was also found to be in possession of a firearm in her bedroom, leading to additional charges. She has been charged with trafficking cocaine, possession of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, felony possession of marijuana, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drugs within 1,000 feet of a school, possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance, possession of dangerous drugs, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute.

The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is currently experiencing a surge in kittens, prompting an urgent appeal for donations from the community. The shelter is working tirelessly to care for the influx of feline friends and is seeking assistance from compassionate residents. “We are in the midst of kitten season here at the shelter,” a statement from the shelter read. “We are looking for donations if anyone is in the position to help.” To make donating as easy as possible, the shelter has created an Amazon wish list, allowing supporters to purchase much-needed items that will be delivered directly to the facility. While all donations are gratefully accepted, the shelter currently has an urgent need for clumping cat litter. The Chattooga County Animal Shelter plays a vital role in providing care and shelter for abandoned, neglected, and stray animals in the community. Those interested in supporting the Chattooga County Animal Shelter can find the Amazon wish list link on the shelter’s Facebook Page HERE or by contacting the shelter directly.

Georgia drivers are feeling the pinch at the pump this week, as the state’s average gas price has risen to $2.95 per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline. This reflects a significant increase compared to last week, although prices are still lower than they were a year ago. According to recent data, the current average is 9 cents higher than it was a week ago and 2 cents higher than last month. However, Georgians are still enjoying some relief compared to last year, paying 31 cents less per gallon. Filling up a 15-gallon tank now costs approximately $44.25, almost $7.00 less than this time last year. This price surge mirrors a national trend. The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline has jumped by 8 cents since last Monday, reaching $3.21. These prices are subject to change overnight. Motorists are encouraged to stay informed about daily fluctuations by visiting the AAA Fuel Site.

The most expensive metro markets in Georgia are Savannah ($3.03), Brunswick ($2.98), and Athens ($2.97).

The least expensive metro markets in Georgia areAugusta-Aiken ($2.89), Rome ($2.86), and Catoosa-Dade-Walker ($2.84).

Area gas price averages: Chattooga ($2.85), Walker ($2.83), Floyd ($2.87), Gordon ($2.90), DeKalb, AL ($2.80), Cherokee, AL ($2.82).

Starting July 1, 2025, selling used catalytic converters in Georgia will become significantly more regulated, thanks to the implementation of SB 40. The new law aims to combat the rising problem of catalytic converter theft by increasing transparency and accountability in the secondary metals market.

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With summer temperatures soaring and much of Georgia facing a week of 90+ degree weather, Georgia Power is offering customers a series of recommendations to stay cool while keeping energy bills manageable. The power company recognizes the strain that summer heat can place on household budgets and is encouraging customers to implement these simple, cost-effective strategies:

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A warming trend is expected to bring high temperatures and humidity to Georgia over the next two days, with the potential for heat indices to soar into the 100 to 107 degree range on Tuesday. The National Weather Service is forecasting the heat wave due to a large upper-level ridge building over the Eastern U.S. This ridge will lead to rising temperatures and dry conditions across the region. While the most intense heat will be concentrated in the Ohio Valley and Mid Atlantic, Georgia’s proximity to the ridge ensures it will experience a significant heat spike. Afternoon highs today are expected to reach the mid-90s, with Tuesday potentially seeing temperatures climb into the upper 90s. The greatest concern is for east central Georgia, where there is a 50% chance of a Heat Advisory being issued for Tuesday. Peak heat indices in this region are forecast to reach a dangerous 103 to 107 degrees. While the Atlanta Metro area faces a lower, 20% chance of a Heat Advisory, residents are still urged to take precautions against the heat. Looking ahead, thunderstorm chances later in the week may bring some relief from the heat, but the current heat wave is expected to peak on Wednesday, pending any thunderstorm activity. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and check on vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, June 23, 2025:

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Brandon Keith Bolden, 37, convicted of aggravated child molestation in Chattooga County, died last week after being assaulted by his cellmate at Rutledge State Prison in Columbus, Georgia. According to the Muscogee County Coroner, Bolden succumbed to blunt-force trauma injuries sustained during the attack. Bolden was serving time for a conviction stemming from a 2010 arrest in Summerville, where he was initially charged with child molestation, aggravated child molestation, and sexual battery. The Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed Bolden’s death and stated that the incident is under investigation by the GDC’s Office of Professional Standards. “The death is being investigated by the GDC’s Office of Professional Standards, as standard procedure; however, additional details are not available, as the investigation is ongoing,” said Joan Heath, director of communications for the Georgia Department of Corrections, in an email statement. Authorities have not yet released the identity of Bolden’s cellmate or indicated whether charges are pending. Bolden’s family has been notified, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation will conduct an autopsy. Rutledge State Prison, a medium-security facility housing 640 inmates, is located in Columbus.

As summer approaches, Animal Advocates of Chattooga County (AACC) remind pet and livestock owners of important safety precautions during the hot weather. With rising temperatures, they warn against leaving pets in vehicles, as car interiors can become dangerously hot, leading to heatstroke and death. The Animal Advocates recommend leaving pets at home in cool, well-ventilated areas when running errands or attending outdoor events. Also those who keep livestock should remember the need for plenty of water and shade for all animals. Livestock also need access to clean, cool drinking water and shade structures like barns or trees to prevent heat stress. Community members are encouraged to report any signs of animal neglect or distress to authorities. By working together, everyone can help protect the safety and well-being of animals in Chattooga County this summer.

In a landmark agreement, the Georgia Department of Agriculture announced Friday that the state will be exporting 42,000 pounds of Georgia peaches to Mexico, marking the first time since 1994 that the state has been able to ship the beloved stone fruit to its southern neighbor.

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