The U.S. Secret Service launched a targeted operation in Georgia on Thursday, part of a statewide effort to combat rampant SNAP benefit theft by uncovering and removing illegal skimming devices from business card readers. The ongoing fraud has cost Georgians over $23 million this year alone, impacting vulnerable families reliant on food assistance.
Georgia hunters eager to get into the woods can mark their calendars: squirrel season officially opens on August 15, 2025, promising one of the state’s longest-running small game opportunities. The season will continue through February 28, 2026, offering ample time to pursue this early-season favorite.
While Chattooga County boasts one of the lowest costs of living in the state, particularly when it comes to housing, a deeper look reveals a complex economic paradox: the county’s lower median wages can make it challenging for residents to fully leverage these savings.
Chattooga County residents were shocked about the news that a Lyerly woman was arrested by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) this week, and is facing serious charges including sexual exploitation of children and bestiality. Lillian Hughes, 32, was taken into custody following an investigation into her online activities. The GBI is encouraging anyone with information about child exploitation to contact them.
As the Georgia General Assembly prepares to debate the elimination of the state’s income tax, policy experts are urging a cautious approach. The income tax currently accounts for 56% of the state’s general fund revenues, representing a staggering $19 billion.
The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Summerville Police Department and Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force announced today the successful completion of an undercover sting operation targeting businesses that illegally sold vaping products to underaged persons in violation of state law.
One of the two badly decomposed bodies discovered last month in a Chattooga County residence has been positively identified as 53-year-old Michael Kevin Bolton of Summerville. The identification was confirmed today by Chattooga County Coroner Jeremy A. McElhaney, citing the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Medical Examiner’s Office.
The sound of Friday night lights returns as high school football officially kicks off this evening, and Real Country WZQZ is proud to bring fans comprehensive coverage of the Trion Bulldogs and Chattooga Indians scrimmage games. Marking our 18th season of dedicated high school football broadcasts, WZQZ continues its tradition of bringing the public high school football coverage.
Northwest Georgia residents can look forward to a warm and mostly sunny start to the weekend, with high temperatures in the low to mid-80s through Saturday. While there’s a slight chance of isolated afternoon showers, significant rainfall is not expected, ensuring pleasant conditions for outdoor activities.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, August 8, 2025:
