DNR Says Invasive Tegu Lizards Can Be Killed On Sight In Georgia

Georgia wildlife officials are asking residents to be on the lookout for a large invasive lizard that poses a threat to native wildlife.

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Arrest Report – Saturday – June 20, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, June 20, 2026:

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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.

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$5,000 Reward Offered For Information Leading To Murder Suspect’s Arrest

Law enforcement agencies are offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of a suspect wanted in connection with a Rome homicide investigation.

According to the Rome Police Department, multiple agencies are searching for 23-year-old Treveonsay Burge, who is wanted in the October 21 shooting death of 18-year-old Adam Hernandez on Woodcreek Way.

Authorities describe Burge as a Black male, 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing approximately 120 pounds.

The United States Marshals Service Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force has announced a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to Burge’s arrest.

Anyone with information regarding Burge’s whereabouts is urged to call 706-853-1628.

Authorities warn the public not to approach or attempt to apprehend Burge. Anyone who knows his location should call 9-1-1 or the tip line immediately.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Two Indicted In Summerville Drive-By Shooting Case

Two people accused of carrying out a drive-by shooting during a family dispute last summer have been indicted by a Chattooga County Grand Jury.

Isaac Hines and Vinta Youngblood were formally charged in connection with a June 29, 2025, shooting incident at a residence on Church Street in Summerville. According to investigators, the shooting stemmed from an ongoing domestic conflict involving several family members.

Authorities say multiple shots were fired into the home while Marcus Ramon Dupree was staying there. Summerville Police Detective Phillip Cox testified that seven rounds were fired at the residence. Investigators allege that Youngblood drove Hines to the location and that Hines fired the weapon from the vehicle.

The grand jury returned indictments charging both Hines and Youngblood with drive-by shooting, aggravated assault, second-degree criminal damage to property, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Youngblood was also indicted on an additional charge of making false statements.

The case remains pending in Chattooga County Superior Court.

Nearly 1,000 Grams of Meth Seized From Georgia Prison Cell During Investigation

A major contraband investigation has led to the seizure of nearly a kilogram of methamphetamine and multiple cell phones from a Georgia prison inmate’s cell, according to authorities.

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Arrest Report – Saturday – June 13, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, June 13, 2026:

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Touch A Truck Happening Today In Downtown Summerville

Families in Chattooga County will have an opportunity to get up close to a variety of emergency, utility, and service vehicles today during the City of Summerville’s Touch A Truck event.

The sensory-friendly event is scheduled for 10 a.m. until noon today, Saturday, June 13, on East Washington Street in downtown Summerville. Organizers say the event is designed specifically with the special needs community in mind while remaining open and welcoming to everyone.

Children and families will have the chance to climb aboard, explore, and learn about police vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, bucket trucks, tow trucks, tractors, and other specialized equipment used throughout the community.

Participants will also have an opportunity to meet local first responders, public safety officials, and community exhibitors, including representatives from the Summerville Police Department, Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, fire services, EMS, public works, and other local organizations.

Free Kona Ice will be available during the event, courtesy of United Community Bank and Southeast First National Bank.

Organizers say the event will feature a reduced-noise environment, hands-on exploration, and a supportive atmosphere designed to make the experience enjoyable for all ages and abilities.

Piedmont Man Charged Following Motorcycle Theft Investigation

A Piedmont man is facing charges following a motorcycle theft investigation in Cherokee County, Alabama.

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Courthouse Reopens After Bomb Threat Investigation

The Chattooga County Courthouse reopened Wednesday afternoon after a bomb threat prompted an evacuation and law enforcement search of the building.

According to Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen, the threat was reported to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office Wednesday morning. Officials immediately evacuated and secured the courthouse while deputies conducted a thorough search of the facility.

Authorities later determined there was no active threat and gave the all-clear for employees and the public to return.

The courthouse resumed normal operations at 1 p.m.

Allen thanked the Sheriff’s Office, first responders, courthouse employees, and the public for their cooperation during the incident, saying the safety of the community remains the county’s highest priority.

No injuries were reported, and authorities have not released additional information about the source of the threat.