Arrest Report - Monday - May 18, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, May 18, 2026:
Warm Temperatures Continue Across Northwest Georgia; Storm Chances Increase Later This Week
Residents across Northwest Georgia and Chattooga County can expect another warm day Monday, with afternoon highs climbing into the upper 80s and lower 90s.
According to the National Weather Service, only a few isolated thunderstorms are expected this afternoon near the Georgia-Alabama border, and overall storm coverage should remain much lower than what the area experienced Sunday.
Forecasters say high pressure over the region will limit widespread storm development through Tuesday. Winds are expected to remain out of the south at 5 to 10 mph, with overnight lows settling into the mid-60s.
Rain chances are expected to increase beginning Wednesday as a cold front approaches North Georgia. The front is expected to stall near the area later in the week, bringing a higher chance of afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms through the upcoming weekend.
The greatest storm coverage is expected across the northern half of Georgia, including Northwest Georgia and Chattooga County. While widespread severe weather is not anticipated at this time, forecasters say a few strong storms and periods of heavy rainfall cannot be ruled out.
Temperatures are expected to remain above normal through the week, although increased cloud cover and storm activity could bring slightly cooler afternoons later this week.
Election Day Is Tuesday In Chattooga County
Election Day for the May 19, 2026 General Primary and Nonpartisan General Election is tomorrow in Chattooga County.
Polls will be open Tuesday from 7 AM until 7 PM. Voters are reminded that they must go to their assigned Election Day polling location, not the Registrars Office.
According to the Chattooga County Board of Elections, 1,301 ballots were cast during Advance Voting, which has now ended.
As of Saturday, May 16, at 7:30 AM, 53 absentee by mail ballots had been issued. Of those, 42 had been accepted and 11 remained outstanding. The deadline to submit an application for an absentee by mail ballot has passed.
Voters will be required to show a government-issued photo ID when checking in to vote. Those voting in person will also be asked to select a Democratic, Republican, or Nonpartisan ballot.
Health Inspection Scores - First Half of May 2026
The Chattooga County Environmental Health Department has released its latest food service inspection scores for the first half of May 2026.
All listed locations received scores in the 90s or above, with three locations receiving perfect scores of 100.
Pudding Pops’ base of operation and mobile unit, both located at 190 Alred Street in Summerville, each received a perfect score of 100 during inspections on May 12.
Lyerly School also received a perfect score of 100 during its May 1 inspection.
Other scores included Waffle House in Summerville with a 96 on May 8, and Zaxby’s in Summerville with a 99 on May 7.
For more information, or for any complaints about any food service or tourist accommodation that operates in Chattooga County, residents may contact the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department at 706-857-3377.
Summerville Woman Charged With Harassing Communications In Rome
A Summerville woman was jailed in Rome after reports said she harassed staff at Atrium Health Floyd.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 43-year-old Treva Misuni Wiggins of Summerville was taken into custody after allegedly contacting the hospital despite previously being banned from the facility.
Reports stated that Wiggins had been informed that Atrium Health Floyd would no longer provide her treatment. Despite that notice, authorities said she allegedly continued to contact the hospital, leading to the charge.
Wiggins was charged with harassing communications.
Lyerly Man Charged With Exploitation Of Elderly Rome Man
A Lyerly man has been booked into the Floyd County Jail after police said he exploited an elderly Rome man who was battling stage 4 lung cancer.
According to reports, 30-year-old Holland Tyler Bishop allegedly took and wrote a check belonging to the victim for his own use without permission.
Police said the check was written in April of 2024 and was in the amount of $1,300.
Bishop has been charged with exploitation of the elderly or disabled.
Walker County To Celebrate Grand Opening Of Adventure Acres Park
Walker County officials will host a grand opening celebration for the new Adventure Acres park on Wednesday, May 20, from 4 PM until 6 PM.
The new park is located at 370 Salem Road in Rossville.
The celebration will include a brief program, ribbon-cutting ceremony, and the official activation of the park’s splash pad. Refreshments and giveaway items will also be available while supplies last.
Adventure Acres was funded primarily through a $2.2 million American Rescue Plan Act grant. The park features a nature-themed playground with more than 60 components, including a multi-lane zip track, swings, climbing boulders, a splash pad, quarter-mile walking trail, open green space, pavilion, restrooms, community Wi-Fi hotspot, and solar-powered charging station.
Chattooga High School Releases 2026-2027 Parent And Family Engagement Plans
Chattooga High School has released its 2026-2027 Parent and Family Engagement Policy, School-Parent Compact, and plans for shared student achievement for the upcoming school year.
The documents outline the school’s goals for academic success, parent involvement, communication, and community partnerships as part of the school’s Title I program.
According to the information released by CHS Principal Roger Wilkinson, the school’s goals include providing a supportive learning environment, maintaining a safe and orderly campus, and maximizing personal growth and academic achievement for all students.
The plans also detail ways parents can stay involved through activities such as Meet the Teacher/Open House, One Tribe Nights, Title I meetings, School Council meetings, FAFSA Parent Night, and other engagement opportunities throughout the school year.
School officials say the plans are designed to strengthen partnerships among students, parents, teachers, and the community while improving student achievement and communication between home and school.
Upcoming events listed in the plans include:
- Meet the Teacher/Open House on July 23, 2026
- Annual Title I Meeting on August 18, 2026
- Fall One Tribe Night on September 16, 2026
- Spring One Tribe Night on February 25, 2027
Parents are encouraged to participate in the CHS School Community Team and provide feedback throughout the school year.
Additional information is available through Chattooga High School or the Chattooga County Schools Title I Office.
Governor Signs Bill Expanding Medical Cannabis Access In Georgia
Governor Brian Kemp has signed legislation expanding access to medical cannabis in Georgia.
The bill, known as the “Putting Georgia’s Patients First Act,” goes into effect statewide on Wednesday, July 1.
Under the new law, low THC oil is now referred to as “medical cannabis” in Georgia legal code. The measure also updates the list of medical conditions that allow patients to qualify for a medical cannabis registration card.
Among the changes, patients with lupus will now be eligible. The law also removes some previous requirements that certain qualifying conditions be considered “severe” or “end-stage.”
The legislation also revises renewal procedures for medical cannabis cards and clarifies that lawful medical use is excluded from the Georgia Controlled Substances Act.
Smoking and vaping medical cannabis will remain prohibited for individuals under the age of 21, but allowed for those older than 21. Use of medical cannabis is still restricted in public places.
Recreational marijuana remains illegal in Georgia.
Georgia DNR Announces New Battlefield Preservation Grant
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has announced a new grant program aimed at protecting historic battlefield lands across the state.
The new Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund Program will provide matching grants to qualified nonprofit organizations and state agencies working to acquire or permanently protect eligible battlefield properties in Georgia.
Eligible sites include battlefields recognized in national historic preservation reports by the National Park Service and the Civil War Sites Advisory Commission.
The program will offer annual funding cycles on a first-come, first-served basis. Grants may cover up to 50 percent of eligible land purchases or conservation easements, with applicants required to provide matching funds.
Eligible applicants include nonprofit charitable organizations focused on historic land preservation, as well as state agencies that conserve natural, cultural, or historical resources.
Applications must be submitted through the Georgia DNR’s online grant portal.
Arrest Report - Sunday - May 17, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, May 17, 2026.
Strong Storms Possible Across North Georgia Today; Hotter Temperatures Ahead This Week
Forecasters say scattered showers and strong to severe thunderstorms could develop across north and central Georgia this afternoon and continue into the early evening hours.
The primary threats from any stronger storms will be damaging wind gusts and hail. Some storms could produce wind gusts exceeding 60 miles per hour along with nickel to quarter-sized hail.
The National Weather Service has placed much of the area under a Marginal Risk for severe weather today. Meteorologists say increasing moisture and instability, combined with afternoon heat, will help fuel thunderstorm development through the day.
High temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 80s and lower 90s today and Monday, creating favorable conditions for storms during the peak heating hours of the afternoon.
The severe weather threat is expected to diminish quickly after sunset tonight.
Looking ahead, warmer temperatures will continue through much of the week with highs remaining in the 80s and low 90s. Rain chances are expected to increase again beginning Wednesday as a slow-moving cold front approaches the Southeast.
Forecasters say showers and thunderstorms are likely to become more widespread from midweek into late week, especially across north Georgia. While widespread organized severe weather is not currently expected later in the week, isolated strong storms and heavy rainfall will remain possible.
LaFayette Man Killed In Motorcycle Crash On Shinbone Valley Road In Menlo
A LaFayette man was killed Saturday evening following a motorcycle crash on Shinbone Valley Road in Menlo, according to Chattooga County Coroner Jeremy A. McElhaney.
Authorities said the Chattooga County E-911 Center notified the coroner’s office at approximately 6:18 PM on Saturday, May 16, 2026, regarding a fatal motor vehicle accident.
Upon arrival at the scene, Coroner McElhaney pronounced 39-year-old James Cody Penland dead at the scene.
Preliminary information indicates Penland was the sole operator of a motorcycle that left the roadway and struck a tree. The crash was reportedly discovered and called in by a passer-by. Investigators do not believe anyone else was involved.
The Georgia State Patrol is continuing to investigate the cause of the accident.
Responding agencies included the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Atrium Floyd EMS, and the Menlo Fire Department.
Summerville City Council Called Meeting Monday
The Summerville City Council will hold a special called meeting on Monday, May 18 at 5:30 PM at Summerville City Hall to discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget.
According to the meeting agenda, city officials and department heads will present budget discussions for multiple city departments and operations, including police, fire, recreation, streets, water and sewer services, gas operations and municipal court.
City Manager Jason Winters is scheduled to present information related to revenues, building inspection, water administration and gas administration. Other presentations will come from department leaders overseeing information technology, wastewater treatment, the water treatment plant and Main Street operations.
The meeting agenda also includes mayor’s comments, announcements, introduction of guests and a public comments portion before adjournment.
Brinley Corbin’s Dream Becomes Reality With Opening Of Trion Dog Park
Brinley Alexandria Corbin’s dream became a reality Saturday as the Town of Trion officially opened a new dog park inspired by her love for animals and her community.
Family, friends and community members gathered at the Track Field for the dog park opening, where Mayor Mickey McGraw and the Trion Town Council welcomed those in attendance. The park now stands as a lasting tribute to Brinley, who loved her pups, her hometown and the people around her.
Earlier in the day, loved ones also gathered at Hurley Park for a bench dedication in Brinley’s memory. The bench was purchased by several teacher friends of Brinley’s mother, Staci, as a way to honor both Brinley’s life and the love surrounding her family.
Brinley was 26 years old when she passed away on April 9, 2025. On Saturday, the community made it clear that she has not been forgotten.
The new dog park includes separate areas for larger and smaller dogs. Residents are encouraged to bring their pups, enjoy the new community space and remember Brinley’s legacy through kindness, love and community spirit.
Georgia’s New Insurance Reform Law Brings Major Changes For Homeowners And Drivers
A sweeping new insurance reform measure signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp is expected to bring significant changes for Georgia homeowners, drivers and insurance companies.
House Bill 1344, known as the “Georgia Insurance Affordability and Claims Integrity Act,” was signed into law earlier this month after receiving overwhelming support in the Georgia General Assembly. Supporters say the legislation is designed to improve transparency, crack down on fraud and help make insurance more affordable across the state.
The new law increases roughly 40 fines and penalties for insurance companies that violate laws or policy provisions during the claims process. Lawmakers say the goal is to make claims processing faster, fairer and more accountable for policyholders.
HB 1344 also strengthens enforcement of uninsured motorist laws and includes new measures targeting insurance fraud, including tougher enforcement against staged accidents and illegal solicitation practices connected to crash victims.
One major portion of the legislation focuses on storm damage and homeowner protection. The bill enhances Georgia’s Fortified Homes program, which helps homeowners strengthen roofs and structures against severe weather damage. Lawmakers say the program could help reduce storm-related insurance claims and lower long-term costs for both insurers and homeowners.
The legislation also places new restrictions on how insurance companies can use aerial and satellite imaging when evaluating homes. Under the new law, insurers using aerial images to cancel or refuse to renew a homeowner’s policy must provide copies of the images and give homeowners time to address any issues before coverage is dropped.
Additional provisions require local governments to report how insurance premium tax revenue is being used to help reduce insurance costs for citizens. The bill also limits premium tax refund requests to three years and guarantees policyholders at least two years to file property and casualty insurance claims.
The measure further includes provisions related to insurance policies for short-term rentals such as Airbnb and vacation rental properties.
Supporters of the bill say Georgia has faced rising insurance costs in recent years, especially following severe weather events and increased claims costs. Lawmakers behind the legislation say the reforms are intended to improve consumer protections while stabilizing the state’s insurance market.
Most provisions of HB 1344 are scheduled to take effect July 1.
Chattooga County Animal Shelter Encourages Residents To Consider Pet Adoption
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is encouraging residents to consider opening their homes to a shelter pet.
Several dogs and cats are currently available for adoption at the shelter, giving local families the opportunity to provide a loving home to an animal in need. Adoption not only changes the life of the pet, but also helps reduce overcrowding and allows the shelter to continue caring for other animals that come through its doors.
Shelter pets can make loyal companions for individuals, couples and families. Many animals waiting for adoption simply need a second chance, a safe home and someone willing to give them love and stability.
Choosing adoption also supports the work of local animal shelters and rescue efforts here in Chattooga County. Every adoption helps free up space, resources and staff time for other animals needing care.
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is located at 464 Red Oak Road in Summerville. Operating hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 AM until 4 PM. Wednesday visits are available by appointment.
Anyone thinking about adding a pet to their family is encouraged to visit the shelter and learn more about the adoption process.
Gov. Kemp Extends Georgia Gas Tax Suspension For Two More Weeks
Georgia drivers will get two additional weeks of relief at the gas pump after Governor Brian Kemp signed an executive order suspending the state’s motor fuel tax.
The new suspension begins at 12:01 AM on May 20 and will run through June 3. It follows the current gas tax suspension under House Bill 1199, which is set to expire at 11:59 PM on May 19. The executive order is structured to continue the savings without a gap between the two suspensions.
Kemp said the move is aimed at helping Georgia families ahead of the busy Memorial Day travel weekend, when millions of Americans are expected to take road trips. According to AAA, more than 39 million Americans are expected to travel by car during the holiday period, surpassing last year’s record.
The governor said Georgia families should not feel blindsided by prices at the pump as they prepare for holiday travel. He said the state remains committed to providing relief where possible.
The average price for a gallon of regular gas in Georgia is currently $4.02, about 50 cents below the national average. Georgia is one of only two states currently suspending its motor fuel tax.
Georgia’s motor fuel excise tax is 33.3 cents per gallon for gasoline and 37.3 cents per gallon for diesel. The suspension temporarily removes those taxes from the price paid by motorists.
The gas tax suspension will remain in effect through June 3 unless it is extended again by further state action.
Peaceful Protest Held In Downtown Summerville Supporting Trion Student In ICE Custody
Members of the Chattooga County Democratic Party organized a peaceful protest in downtown Summerville on Saturday in support of a Trion High School student currently being held by federal immigration authorities.
The protest was held in front of the Chattooga County Courthouse, where demonstrators gathered carrying signs and expressing support for 19-year-old Elder Aguilar-Macario, a Trion High School senior who was taken into custody following a traffic stop in Walker County earlier this month.
According to reports, Aguilar-Macario was stopped by the Georgia State Patrol and charged with driving without a license and failure to maintain lane. After being booked into the Walker County Jail, immigration officials were contacted through the county’s partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He was later transferred into federal custody.
Friends, classmates, and supporters say Aguilar-Macario has attended Trion schools since arriving in the United States as a child and was only weeks away from graduation at the time of his arrest. Reports also noted that he recently began a welding program at Georgia Northwestern Technical College and played soccer for Trion High School.
Elder’s family was in attendance at the protest on Saturday.
Organizers of Saturday’s protest said the event was intended to peacefully show community support for the student and his family while calling attention to concerns over immigration enforcement involving students and longtime community members. Organizers say that another protest may take place in the near future.
Highland Avenue Road Closure Scheduled For May 18–22
A road closure is scheduled for Highland Avenue in Summerville this week due to planned infrastructure work in the area.
Highland Avenue will be closed to through traffic between East First Avenue and Sixth Avenue from Monday, May 18 through Friday, May 22. The closure will be in place daily from 7 AM until 8 PM.
Businesses and residents located within the closure area will still have access to their properties, but minor delays should be expected.
Motorists are encouraged to use Highway 27 northbound and southbound as an alternate route and follow posted detour signs around the construction zone.