Arrest Report - Tuesday - June 30, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, June 1, 2026:
Dangerous Heat Continues Across Chattooga County Through Fourth of July Weekend
A prolonged stretch of dangerous summer heat will continue across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia through the Independence Day weekend, with afternoon temperatures climbing into the mid to upper 90s and heat index values frequently topping 100 degrees.
A Heat Advisory remains in effect today from noon until 8 PM, with heat index values expected to reach 105 degrees across the area. Today’s high will be near 97, and while skies will remain sunny, the combination of heat and humidity will create hazardous conditions for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
The extreme heat eases only slightly Wednesday through Friday. High temperatures will remain in the mid-90s, while heat index values are expected to range from the upper 90s to around 103 degrees. A few locations could still briefly reach 105 degrees during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Beginning Wednesday, isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms will return to the forecast. Rain chances remain relatively low through Friday, ranging from 20 to 30 percent, but any storm that develops could produce gusty winds, frequent lightning and brief heavy rainfall.
Looking ahead to the Fourth of July weekend, temperatures will remain well above normal with highs around 95 degrees Saturday and 93 degrees Sunday. Afternoon and evening thunderstorms will become more numerous, with rain chances increasing to 30 percent Saturday and 50 percent Sunday. By Monday, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to become even more widespread, with rain chances climbing to 60 percent as a weather pattern change begins to take shape.
Residents planning outdoor activities this week or attending Independence Day celebrations should stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning, and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles. Those working outdoors should schedule strenuous activities during the morning hours whenever possible and remain alert for signs of heat-related illness.
Body Recovered During Search At Armuchee Park In Floyd County
Emergency crews recovered the body of an individual Monday night during search operations at Armuchee Park on Jones Mill Road in Floyd County.
Earlier in the evening, the Floyd County Police Department announced that first responders were searching for a possible drowning victim and asked the public to avoid the area while search and rescue operations were underway.
Later Monday night, authorities confirmed that emergency crews had located the body of an individual during the search. The scene remained active as law enforcement and other agencies continued their investigation.
The identity of the deceased has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
The Floyd County Police Department expressed its condolences to the individual’s family and again asked the public to avoid the area while emergency personnel completed their work.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no additional information has been released.
AAA: Gas Prices Continue To Fall Ahead Of Independence Day Travel
Georgia motorists are getting another break at the pump just as one of the busiest travel weeks of the year gets underway.
According to AAA, the statewide average for a gallon of regular gasoline is now $3.57, down 7 cents from last week and 38 cents lower than one month ago, although it remains 64 cents higher than this time last year. A typical 15-gallon fill-up now costs about $53.70. Nationally, the average price has fallen to $3.86 per gallon, marking nearly four consecutive weeks of declining prices.
AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters says lower crude oil prices have helped keep gasoline costs in check, but holiday travel demand could push prices slightly higher as the Fourth of July approaches. She encourages travelers to fill up early, compare prices, and use fuel-saving habits before heading out.
Here are the latest AAA county averages for the local area:
- Chattooga County, Georgia: $3.55
- Walker County, Georgia: $3.53
- Floyd County, Georgia: $3.56
- Gordon County, Georgia: $3.52
- DeKalb County, Alabama: $3.64
- Cherokee County, Alabama: $3.50
AAA notes that while prices remain favorable compared to recent weeks, motorists should continue shopping around, as prices can vary significantly from station to station.
Summerville City Offices Announce July 4th Holiday Schedule
The City of Summerville says City Hall and all municipal offices will close early on Thursday, July 2, in observance of the Independence Day holiday weekend and America’s 250th birthday celebration.
City offices will close at 11 a.m. Thursday and remain closed on Friday, July 3, and Monday, July 6.
Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, July 7.
Residents needing to conduct business with the city are encouraged to do so before the holiday closure begins
Summerville's Celebrate Independence Festival Returns Thursday With Music, Food, Family Fun & Fireworks
One of Chattooga County’s biggest summer traditions returns Thursday, July 2, as the City of Summerville hosts its annual Celebrate Independence Festival and Fireworks Show at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center.
The free community celebration begins at 6 p.m. at 33 Middle School Road and promises an evening packed with live music, family activities, great food, contests, and one of the largest fireworks displays in Northwest Georgia. The fireworks show is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m.
Visitors will find dozens of food options ranging from barbecue, hamburgers, hot dogs, Philly cheesesteaks, authentic Mexican cuisine, chicken tacos, homemade ice cream, funnel cakes, fried pies, roasted corn, lemonade, cotton candy, nachos, pork rinds, signature sandwiches and much more. Free watermelon slices will also be available while supplies last.
Families can enjoy the free Kid’s Zone beginning at 6 p.m., featuring waterslides, toddler inflatables, face painting, sack races, badminton, volleyball, Jenga and other activities. The Kid’s Zone will remain open until 9 p.m.
The evening will also feature several popular contests. Registration for the Corn Hole Tournament begins at 6 p.m., with play getting underway after registration closes at 6:30 p.m. Teams of two may enter for $20, with cash prizes awarded to the top finishers.
At 6:35 p.m., children are invited to participate in the annual Patriotic Foot Parade. Youngsters dressed in patriotic attire can march across the festival grounds for a chance to receive medals presented by members of the Summerville City Council.
Those with a competitive appetite can register between 6 and 7 p.m. for the Summerville Natural Gas & Menlo Lucky’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. Six contestants will be selected to compete at 7:30 p.m. for bragging rights and $500 in prize money.
Entertainment begins at 6:45 p.m. with local singer-songwriter Parker Thomas, followed at 8 p.m. by The Whole Fam Damily, a sibling quartet known throughout Northwest Georgia and Tennessee for performing classic country and rock favorites. The group has shared the stage with nationally known acts, including Shenandoah.
Parking is free, and organizers encourage attendees to arrive early, bring lawn chairs or blankets, and enjoy an evening celebrating Independence Day with friends, family, music, and fireworks.
Chattooga High School To Host Kiddie Football Camp Next Week
Young football fans will have an opportunity to learn from the Chattooga High School Indians coaching staff and players during the annual Chattooga High School Kiddie Football Camp, which begins next week.
The camp will be held Monday through Wednesday, July 6th, 7th, and 8th, from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. each evening at the Chattooga High School football field. Registration will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, July 6.
The camp is open to boys and girls ages 5 through 11, and organizers say all skill levels are welcome. Participants will receive instruction in football fundamentals, offensive and defensive techniques, speed and agility drills, teamwork, sportsmanship, and will also take part in fun games and competitions.
Campers should wear athletic clothing and bring cleats or tennis shoes along with a water bottle.
The annual camp provides a fun opportunity for young athletes to develop their skills while spending time with the Chattooga High School football program and learning what it means to be a Future Indian.
More Than 120 New Georgia Laws Take Effect Wednesday
More than 120 new laws passed by the Georgia General Assembly will officially take effect Wednesday, July 1, bringing a wide range of changes that will impact consumers, public safety, agriculture, criminal justice, financial institutions, and businesses across the state.
One of the most significant measures is a new law aimed at protecting older adults and other vulnerable Georgians from financial exploitation. Under the legislation, banks and credit unions will have greater authority to temporarily delay suspicious financial transactions when they have reason to believe a customer is the victim of fraud or financial abuse. The law is intended to give families and law enforcement additional time to intervene before money is permanently lost.
Georgia is also implementing new regulations for cryptocurrency kiosks, commonly known as Bitcoin ATMs. The law requires stronger fraud warnings, limits certain transactions, and places restrictions on fees in an effort to reduce scams that have increasingly targeted seniors and other vulnerable residents.
Several public safety measures also take effect Wednesday, including stronger penalties for certain human trafficking crimes and a new 15-year statute of limitations for civil actions involving alleged childhood sexual abuse by members of the clergy. Other new laws address issues ranging from delivery robots operating on sidewalks to updates in Georgia’s bingo regulations and changes affecting the management and hunting of feral hogs.
Most legislation approved during this year’s General Assembly becomes effective on July 1 because it marks the beginning of Georgia’s new fiscal year. While some bills took effect immediately after being signed by Governor Brian Kemp or have future effective dates, the majority of new state laws will officially become law on Wednesday.
State officials encourage Georgians to familiarize themselves with the new laws, particularly those affecting consumer protection, financial transactions, and public safety.
Protect Pets and Livestock During This Week's Extreme Heat
With dangerous heat and heat index values climbing above 100 degrees across Northwest Georgia, veterinarians and agricultural experts are urging pet owners and livestock producers to take extra precautions to protect animals from heat-related illness.
Pets should always have access to plenty of fresh, cool water and shaded areas outdoors. Dogs should be walked during the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower, and owners should avoid hot pavement, which can quickly burn paw pads. Animals should never be left unattended in a parked vehicle, where temperatures can become deadly within minutes, even with the windows cracked.
Livestock also face significant risks during prolonged periods of extreme heat. Farmers should ensure cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and other animals have continuous access to clean water and adequate shade. Extra water sources may be needed, as animals consume significantly more water during hot weather. Producers should avoid transporting or working livestock during the hottest part of the day whenever possible.
Owners should watch closely for signs of heat stress, including excessive panting, drooling, weakness, rapid breathing, staggering, or collapse. Livestock may also bunch together, eat less, or appear lethargic. Any animal showing signs of heat exhaustion should be moved to a cooler area immediately, offered water if able to drink safely, and evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
With hot weather expected to continue through much of the week, taking simple precautions can help keep both household pets and farm animals safe until temperatures moderate.
Georgia DOT To Suspend Interstate Lane Closures For July 4th Weekend
The Georgia Department of Transportation says interstate lane closures will be suspended for the July 4th holiday weekend to help improve safety, ease travel, and reduce delays.
The suspension begins Friday, July 3, at 6 a.m. and continues through Monday, July 6, at 6 a.m.
Georgia DOT says some construction crews may still be working near roadways, and some long-term closures could remain in place for safety reasons. Emergency or incident-related lane closures may also happen at any time.
Motorists are reminded to stay alert, slow down in work zones, move over when possible, and watch for changing weather conditions. Georgia DOT says rain increases crash risk, while extreme heat can lead to more road debris and tire blowouts.
Tickets Now On Sale For CRC's 'Dancing With Our Stars – Chattooga Style' Fundraiser
Tickets are now on sale for the Community Resource Center of Chattooga’s second annual “Dancing With Our Stars – Chattooga Style” fundraiser.
The event benefits the Community Resource Center and is presented by VistaLife and Vitality Labs. Local community members have volunteered to take the stage in support of the CRC and its mission of serving families throughout Chattooga County.
The fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, July 25, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Chattooga High School Auditorium.
Organizers say last year’s inaugural event raised more than $58,000 to support the CRC’s programs and services. They hope this year’s event will build on that success while providing an entertaining evening for the community.
Tickets are available now through the “Dancing With Our Stars – Chattooga Style” Facebook page.
Blood Assurance Offering $40 Gift Cards To Encourage Holiday Blood Donations
Blood Assurance is urging area residents to donate blood as local hospitals continue using blood faster than donations are coming in ahead of the Independence Day holiday.
From today through July 7, all eligible blood donors will receive a $40 e-gift card that can be redeemed at a variety of participating retailers, including grocery stores and gas stations.
The nonprofit says donations often decline during holiday weeks because of travel and vacation schedules, while hospitals must remain prepared for emergencies and trauma patients. Blood Assurance reports it has recently had less than a one-day supply of blood, platelets, and plasma, well below the recommended two- to three-day inventory needed to meet patient demand.
Blood Assurance is the primary blood supplier for Atrium Health Floyd and AdventHealth Redmond, meaning local donations directly benefit patients in Northwest Georgia.
Type O donors have an opportunity to earn even more. Those enrolled in Blood Assurance’s Hero Club can receive a $50 gift card for a double red cell donation. Combined with the current promotion, eligible donors could receive up to $90 for a single donation.
Appointments can be scheduled at bloodassurance.org, by calling 800-962-0628, or by texting BAGIVE to 999777.
Arrest Report - Monday - June 29, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, June 29, 2026:
Heat Builds Across Northwest Georgia With Triple-Digit Heat Index Values Expected
A dangerous stretch of summer heat is expected to settle across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this week as temperatures climb into the upper 90s and heat index values soar into the triple digits.
Today will be sunny with a high near 96 degrees, but high humidity will make it feel closer to 102 degrees during the afternoon. While the Heat Advisory remains focused farther south and east, residents across Northwest Georgia should still take precautions against the heat by staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, and checking on elderly neighbors and those without adequate air conditioning.
Tonight will be clear with a low around 76, offering little relief from the heat. Tuesday will be nearly identical, with another sunny day, a high near 96, and heat index values reaching 103 degrees.
The hottest weather of the week is expected Wednesday through Friday, when afternoon highs climb to 97 degrees. Combined with the humidity, heat index values above 100 degrees will be common each day, and some locations across Georgia could experience heat index values exceeding 105 degrees. Additional Heat Advisories may be issued as the week progresses.
While high pressure will dominate the weather pattern, isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms remain possible throughout the week. Rain chances stay relatively low, generally between 20 and 30 percent, but any storm that develops could produce frequent lightning, heavy downpours, and gusty winds.
Looking ahead to the Independence Day holiday, Saturday is expected to be hot and mostly sunny with a high near 96 degrees and a 30 percent chance of afternoon or evening thunderstorms. Shower and thunderstorm chances increase to around 40 percent by Sunday as moisture gradually returns to the region.
Menlo Accepts Town Clerk's Resignation, Names Interim Clerk
The Menlo City Council has officially accepted the resignation of Town Clerk Nicki Hoard and has appointed a former clerk to serve in the position while the search for a permanent replacement gets underway.
During last week’s meeting, Mayor Kris Willis informed the council that Hoard had submitted her resignation prior to the meeting. Willis thanked Hoard for her service to the city and said she left on good terms. The council unanimously voted to accept her resignation.
To help maintain day-to-day operations, the council approved the appointment of Julie Willingham, a former Menlo city clerk, as interim clerk. Willis said Willingham has agreed to assist the city during the transition and will serve on a part-time basis until a full-time clerk is hired.
An advertisement for the permanent town clerk position is expected to be published in the local newspaper, with applications anticipated to remain open for at least two weeks, or longer if needed, before the position is filled.
In other business, Willis announced a new leadership team for the Menlo Recreation Department. The board includes President Levi Robinson, Vice President Nick Stout, Treasurer Kelli Weaver, and board members Keith Lutz and Kevin Payton. The volunteers will serve one-year terms with the option for renewal.
Why Are Georgia Power Bills Still So High Despite a Fuel Rate Cut?
Many Georgia Power customers may have noticed that electric bills remain high this summer, even though the utility recently lowered the fuel portion of its rates.
According to WABE, the biggest reason is increased summer electricity use. As temperatures climb, air conditioners run longer and harder, driving up the amount of electricity households consume. At the same time, Georgia Power’s higher seasonal summer rates take effect, meaning customers pay more for electricity during the months when demand is greatest.
Although the Georgia Public Service Commission approved a reduction in Georgia Power’s fuel costs that lowered the average residential bill by about $4 per month beginning in June, those savings are often outweighed by increased air conditioning use and higher summer rates.
Georgia Power recommends several ways to reduce bills, including raising the thermostat by one degree, using a programmable thermostat, replacing HVAC filters regularly, sealing air leaks around doors and windows, and taking advantage of free home energy audits and available rebates for energy-efficient improvements. Consumer advocates also encourage customers to carefully review optional billing plans before switching, as some may cost more over time depending on energy usage.
Georgia Inmate Accused of Posing as Deputy in Phone Scam
Authorities in Florida say a Georgia prison inmate has admitted to posing as a sheriff’s deputy in a phone scam that stole money from a Palm Coast, Florida resident.
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, 32-year-old Abraham Rivas, an inmate at Dooly State Prison in south Georgia, is accused of pretending to be a sheriff’s deputy and convincing a victim to send two $500 payments through Zelle. The victim believed the money was needed to cover bond and an ankle monitor after a spouse had recently been arrested.
Investigators traced the money to Rivas’ prison commissary account. During an interview with detectives, authorities say Rivas admitted carrying out the scam and claimed he used the stolen money to purchase marijuana inside the prison. He also alleged that other inmates were involved in similar schemes using contraband cell phones, though the Georgia Department of Corrections says it has found no evidence that correctional staff were involved.
Rivas, who is already serving a Georgia prison sentence for aggravated assault, theft by taking, and robbery by sudden snatching, now faces additional Florida charges, including organized scheme to defraud and grand theft. Florida authorities say he will be extradited after completing his Georgia sentence. Officials continue to remind the public that law enforcement agencies will never call and demand money for bond, warrants, or electronic monitoring devices.
Trion Proposes Smaller Budget With No Tax or Utility Rate Increases
Residents in Trion could see no increase in property taxes or utility rates under the town’s proposed 2026-2027 fiscal year budget.
The proposed budget totals approximately $14.7 million across all funds, a decrease of about 3.2 percent compared to the current fiscal year. According to Trion Town Clerk Missy Duncan, most of the reduction is tied to lower projected natural gas sales.
Duncan said Mount Vernon Mills, the town’s largest employer and largest natural gas customer, is expected to use less natural gas during the coming fiscal year based on projections from the Municipal Gas Authority of Georgia. Even with the anticipated decline in gas revenue, town officials are not proposing any increases in water, sewer, natural gas, sanitation, or property tax rates.
The proposed budget includes approximately $4.05 million for the General Fund, $5.21 million for the Gas Revenue Fund, $4.75 million for the Sewer and Wastewater Treatment Fund, $292,500 for the Water Fund, and $391,950 for the SPLOST Fund.
Town officials also expect to receive about $33,000 per month in Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) revenue, providing additional funding for transportation projects.
Residents will have an opportunity to review the proposed budget and offer comments during a public hearing before the budget is considered for final adoption
Georgia Medicaid Payment Cuts Could Threaten Therapy Services for Children with Special Needs
Families of children with special needs across Georgia are raising concerns after proposed Medicaid payment reductions could make it harder to access critical therapy services.
According to Atlanta News First, some pediatric therapy providers say cuts of up to 20 percent in Medicaid reimbursement rates could force clinics to reduce services or stop accepting certain Medicaid-managed insurance plans altogether. The reductions are tied to payment changes by some of the private companies that administer Georgia’s Medicaid program, rather than direct cuts by the state.
Occupational, physical, and speech therapists warn that lower reimbursement rates may make it financially difficult for smaller practices to continue serving Medicaid patients. Families fear that losing access to consistent therapy could delay developmental progress for children with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other disabilities.
Advocates say many rural communities, including parts of Northwest Georgia, already have limited access to pediatric therapy providers, meaning any reduction in available services could leave families traveling farther for care or facing lengthy waitlists.
State officials have said the reimbursement changes are being implemented through Medicaid managed care organizations, while providers and advocacy groups continue urging insurers and policymakers to reconsider the reductions to help preserve access to essential therapy services for Georgia’s children.
Summerville Continues Progress on Sludge Disposal Improvements
The City of Summerville is continuing work to improve how sludge from its wastewater treatment plant is handled, with officials reporting progress on a long-term solution.
During a recent city council meeting, Mayor Rickey Hughes asked for an update on what City Manager Jason Winters described as the city’s ongoing “sludge haul-away” process.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Director Jeff Keen said the retirement of Cross Brothers, which had previously managed the city’s land application program for sludge disposal, forced the city to find a new approach. With no remaining land application option available, Summerville is now transporting sludge to a permitted landfill in Alabama.
Keen said the city has contracted with David Fletcher’s company to handle the hauling after another private hauling permit in Alabama expired. Officials said the new arrangement began last week and has been operating smoothly.
Winters also praised the recent completion of the city’s new sludge storage pad, which allows sludge to be temporarily stored and managed on-site before being transported. He said the new facility has made the hauling process more efficient and described the overall effort to restructure the city’s sludge management system as a multi-step project that has been underway for more than a year.
Winters thanked Keen and the City Council for their work and support, saying the city is now in a much stronger position moving forward.