Arrest Report - Thursday - June 18, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, June 18, 2026:
Rain And Thunderstorms Today With More Rain This Weekend
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for a wet and stormy Thursday as multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms move through the area.
Forecasters say storms will be most widespread during the afternoon and evening hours, with an 80 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms throughout much of the day. High temperatures will reach around 83 degrees, with southwest winds of 5 to 10 mph and gusts up to 25 mph. Rainfall amounts of up to a half-inch are possible during the day, with heavier rainfall expected tonight.
Thunderstorms will continue into Thursday evening before gradually diminishing overnight. Some locations could receive an additional 1 to 2 inches of rain, raising the potential for localized flooding in low-lying and poor-drainage areas.
Conditions improve for Juneteenth on Friday as only a slight chance of a morning shower remains. Skies will become partly sunny with temperatures climbing into the mid-80s.
The weekend begins on a mostly dry note, with only a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms on Saturday. However, rain chances increase again Sunday and continue into early next week, with widespread showers and thunderstorms expected Sunday through Monday. Rain chances remain elevated through Wednesday as an active summer weather pattern settles over the region.
Motorists are encouraged to use caution during periods of heavy rainfall and remain alert for changing weather conditions, especially during afternoon and evening thunderstorms.
Chattooga County Offices To Close Friday For Juneteenth
Chattooga County government offices will be closed Friday, June 19, 2026, in observance of Juneteenth National Independence Day.
According to County Clerk Johnna Allen, the Chattooga County Transfer Station and all county dumpsites will remain open and operate on their regular schedules.
County offices will resume normal business hours on Monday, June 22.
Applications Open For Fall 2026 Governor’s Internship Program
Students and recent graduates interested in public service and state government now have an opportunity to gain firsthand experience inside Georgia’s Executive Office.
Applications are currently being accepted for the Fall 2026 Governor’s Internship Program, a competitive program that places participants in various offices within Governor Brian Kemp’s administration. The internship is designed to provide students and young professionals with practical, hands-on experience while exposing them to the day-to-day operations of state government.
Eligible applicants include junior and senior undergraduate students, recent college graduates, and law students. Interns will have the opportunity to work alongside state officials and staff members, gaining valuable experience in areas such as public policy, communications, constituent services, legal affairs, administration, and government operations.
The Governor’s Internship Program is intended to help participants develop professional skills, build connections within state government, and gain a deeper understanding of how public policy decisions are made and implemented in Georgia.
The program has served as a stepping stone for many young professionals pursuing careers in government, law, public administration, communications, and related fields.
Applications for the Fall 2026 session will remain open through July 6, 2026. Interested applicants can learn more about eligibility requirements, internship opportunities, and the application process by visiting gov.georgia.gov.
State officials encourage qualified students and recent graduates from across Georgia to apply and take advantage of the unique opportunity to serve while gaining valuable career experience.
Summerville Woman Reports Harassing Messages, Police Warn Of Possible Scam
A Summerville woman contacted police after receiving a series of anonymous messages that authorities believe may be part of a scam.
According to a report filed by the Summerville Police Department, officers responded to a harassment complaint at a residence on Allen Street on June 11.
The complainant, identified as 55-year-old Dina Joanne Harper, told officers she had been receiving anonymous messages on her phone from an unknown individual. When asked to show the messages, Harper reportedly was unable to locate them on her device.
The responding officer advised Harper that the messages contained harassing content and threats. Harper also stated that the messages referenced sending money.
Based on the information provided, the officer advised that the messages could be part of a scam and recommended that she block the number and avoid sending any form of payment.
Harper requested that a report be filed and also asked for additional patrols in the area.
No arrests have been made, and the incident remains under investigation.
James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park Hosting 'Tails on Trails' Hike June 20
Dog lovers are invited to bring their four-legged friends to James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park for a special guided hiking event later this month.
The park will host its “Tails on Trails” program on Saturday, June 20, beginning at 1 p.m. Rangers will lead participants and their dogs on a guided hike to the Marble Mine, giving both pets and owners an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while exploring one of the park’s scenic attractions.
The event is designed especially for energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise and stimulation. Organizers encourage participants to bring water for themselves and their pets and remind owners that all dogs must remain on a leash throughout the hike.
Participants will meet in front of the park office by 1 p.m. The cost is $3 per person, and a $10 Georgia State Park pass is also required.
Those interested in attending or seeking additional information can contact the park office at 706-857-0826.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park is located in Chattooga County and offers hiking trails, fishing, camping, and a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the year.
Brownie Still Waiting For A Home As Adoption Deadline Nears
Brownie, our WZQZ Pet of the Week, is still waiting for his forever home, and time is running short.
Friends of Chattooga County Animal Shelter says Brownie has just 11 days left and is in urgent need of adoption. Brownie was abandoned inside a house with two other dogs and arrived at the shelter in very poor condition. The other dogs have since found homes, but Brownie is still waiting.
Volunteers describe Brownie as one of the sweetest dogs at the shelter. They say he is a giant teddy bear who loves attention, enjoys being outside, and simply wants to be near people. Brownie is gentle, easygoing, well-mannered, and does not jump on people.
Brownie is approximately 2 to 3 years old, neutered, affectionate, and great with other dogs. Volunteers say he would be a good fit for almost any family, whether someone is looking for a walking buddy, a couch companion, or a loyal best friend.
Brownie is available at Chattooga County Animal Control, located at 464 Red Oak Road in Summerville. For adoption information, call 706-857-0679.
Shelter hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Wednesdays are by appointment.
Friends of Chattooga County Animal Shelter is asking the community to share Brownie’s story and help him find the home he has been waiting for.
Chattooga County Extension Urges Public To Watch For Spotted Lanternfly
Chattooga County Extension is asking residents to be on the lookout for the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect that can cause serious damage to trees, crops, and ornamental plants.
UGA Extension says mature spotted lanternflies will soon be active in Georgia. The insect is native to Asia and was first found in the United States in Pennsylvania in 2014. Since then, it has spread to several states and is considered a growing threat to agriculture and the environment.
Spotted lanternflies feed on the sap of more than 70 types of plants, including grapevines, fruit trees, maples, walnuts, willows, hops, and other ornamental plants. Large infestations can weaken plants, reduce crop production, and leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew, which can lead to mold growth.
Adults are about one inch long and have gray wings with black spots. When their wings open, bright red coloring can often be seen underneath. Younger lanternflies are black with white spots, later developing red patches as they mature.
Officials say the insect is not a strong flyer, but it can spread quickly when egg masses are carried on vehicles, trailers, firewood, outdoor furniture, equipment, and other surfaces.
Anyone who sees a spotted lanternfly is urged to take a photo, kill the insect, and report the sighting through the University of Georgia reporting system at warnell.cc/ReportSLF.
Extension officials say early detection is one of the best ways to help slow the spread of this invasive pest.
Centre Woman Charged With Drug Possession In North Rome
A Centre, Alabama, woman was arrested Monday in North Rome after police say she was found with suspected Xanax.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 41-year-old Shantera Labrea Kirby was arrested at a location on Couper Street at North Avenue. Authorities said Kirby was found in possession of suspected Xanax, which was reportedly located inside a nicotine pouch.
Jail records also state that Kirby gave law enforcement a false name.
Kirby is charged with possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance, possession of drugs not in the original container, DUI, giving a false name or address, and driving with a suspended or revoked license.
Burns Rejects Redistricting During Special Session, Cites Ongoing Court Cases
Georgia House Speaker Jon Burns has informed Governor Brian Kemp that the Georgia House will not take up congressional or legislative redistricting during the state’s upcoming special legislative session.
In a letter dated June 17, Burns thanked Kemp for his leadership and highlighted several legislative accomplishments from the 2026 session, including property tax relief measures and the extension of the state gas tax suspension. However, he expressed concerns about moving forward with redistricting while significant legal questions remain unresolved.
Burns noted that several court cases are currently pending following the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision in Louisiana v. Callais. Some of those cases directly involve Georgia’s existing congressional and legislative district maps.
According to the Speaker, House leaders believe any consideration of redistricting should occur only after courts provide additional guidance and lawmakers have had adequate time to review the legal implications. He emphasized the importance of allowing citizens and legislators an opportunity to fully examine the facts and participate in the process.
“As we gather today, the House’s sole focus is on the policies that matter most to Georgia’s future and the hardworking people who call our state home,” Burns wrote.
The letter makes clear that the Georgia House does not plan to revisit district maps during the 2026 special session, despite requests to consider the issue. Burns said lawmakers remain committed to ensuring any future redistricting decisions are made carefully and in accordance with constitutional requirements.
The decision sets up a potential disagreement between House leadership and those seeking a more immediate review of Georgia’s political boundaries as legal challenges continue to work their way through the courts.
Summerville Man Accused Of Passing Counterfeit $20 Bill At Tag Office
Summerville Police are investigating after a counterfeit $20 bill was reportedly passed at the Chattooga County Tag Office.
According to a Summerville Police Department incident report, officers met with tag office staff on June 16 after employees said they received a counterfeit $20 bill.
Police said the person who passed the bill had already left the service window when officers arrived. The individual was later contacted and denied knowing the bill was fake.
The report states the incident has been classified as receipt or possession of counterfeit money.
The case remains under investigation.
One Dead Following House Fire in Armuchee
A Floyd County resident lost their life following a house fire Sunday morning in the Armuchee community, according to the Rome-Floyd County Fire Department.
Firefighters were dispatched at approximately 8:44 a.m. on June 14 to a reported structure fire at 494 West Union Road NE with reports that someone was trapped inside.
Twenty emergency personnel responded to the scene, including two engine companies, two tankers, a squad unit, chief officers, and fire investigators. Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy smoke and flames coming from the single-story home and immediately began an aggressive fire attack.
Firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control and extinguish the fire, but one occupant was unable to escape and died as a result of the incident.
The victim’s body was turned over to the Floyd County Coroner’s Office. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released pending notification and identification procedures.
No firefighters were injured while battling the blaze.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by authorities.
Arrest Report - Wednesday - June 17, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, June 17, 2026:
Heavy Rain And Storm Chances Continue Through The Weekend
A soggy weather pattern will remain in place across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia through the weekend, with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms and the potential for periods of heavy rainfall.
Wednesday will bring cooler conditions, but temperatures are expected to slowly climb again heading into the weekend. Cloud cover and lingering moisture will help keep temperatures down early, while afternoon heating could still trigger scattered storms.
The best chance for widespread rain is expected Thursday and Friday as deeper tropical moisture moves across Georgia. Forecasters say some areas could see repeated rounds of rain, raising the concern for localized flooding.
Rainfall totals through the end of the week could reach several inches in parts of Georgia, especially west and central portions of the state. Stronger storms may also bring lightning, gusty winds, and a brief isolated tornado threat.
A front moving through late Friday into Saturday may bring a short break in the rain before another disturbance increases rain chances again late Sunday.
GNTC Foundation Awards Scholarships To Northwest Georgia High School Graduates
The Foundation at Georgia Northwestern Technical College has awarded 48 scholarships totaling more than $37,000 to 47 graduating high school seniors across Northwest Georgia.
Several Chattooga County students were among this year’s recipients, including scholarship winners from Chattooga High School, Trion High School, and the Mountain Education Charter High School Chattooga Campus.
The Chattooga High School Alumni Scholarship was awarded to five Chattooga High School seniors: Zayne Adams, Izabella Burdick, Kasen Elsberry, Jonas Hardy, and Ruby Kilgore.
Additional local recipients included Zulmy Ambrocio of Trion High School, Leah Cochran of Chattooga High School, Nevaeh Johnson of Mountain Education Charter High School’s Chattooga Campus, and Makayla Wilcox of Mountain Education Charter High School’s Chattooga Campus.
The Foundation’s High School Graduate Scholarship is awarded to one senior at each public high school and college and career academy in GNTC’s nine-county service area.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College says the scholarships help support students pursuing associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in career pathways including aviation, business, health, industrial, and public service programs.
Strictly Skynyrd To Headline Final Friday Night Concert In Summerville
Summerville’s Natural Gas Friday Night Concert Series wraps up this Friday, June 19, with a free concert featuring the premier Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band Strictly Skynyrd.
The concert, sponsored by Summerville Main Street, will be held on East Washington Street in the downtown Entertainment District. Music begins at 7 p.m. with local favorite The Hwy 27 Band opening the show.
Strictly Skynyrd will bring the sound of classic Lynyrd Skynyrd to downtown Summerville, performing hits such as “What’s Your Name,” “Gimme Three Steps,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” and “Freebird.” The band uses period-correct instruments to help recreate the look and sound of 1970s Lynyrd Skynyrd.
The Hwy 27 Band, made up of local musicians, will kick off the evening with a mix of upbeat songs across several genres.
East Washington Street will close from US 27/Commerce Street to Regions Bank beginning at 3:15 p.m. Friday and will remain closed until 11 p.m. Regions Bank customers will still have access to the drive-thru from the East Washington/University Street side and the main lobby from the north end of Economy Street.
The public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy an evening of music downtown. The event is family-friendly, and Entertainment District rules will apply.
Woman Arrested After Alleged Shoplifting Incident At Summerville Walmart
A Summerville woman was arrested after allegedly attempting to leave Walmart with more than $160 worth of unpaid merchandise, according to a report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Benjamin Mollohan responded to the Walmart Asset Protection Office on June 14 following a report of a suspected shoplifter. According to the incident report, a Walmart asset protection employee observed 46-year-old Carly Marie Meeks concealing merchandise inside her handbag while shopping.
The report states that Meeks entered an aisle carrying multiple items and later emerged with the items no longer visible while her handbag appeared noticeably full. Store personnel alleged that Meeks passed all points of sale without paying for 33 items valued at $161.25.
Authorities said Meeks was taken into custody and transported to the Chattooga County Jail without incident. The asset protection employee provided deputies with a receipt listing the unpaid merchandise and video footage related to the case.
Meeks was charged with theft by shoplifting.
$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.
AdventHealth Redmond Nurse Honored With DAISY Award For Extraordinary Care
AdventHealth Redmond has named Rebekkah “Reba” Lackey as the recipient of its first-quarter 2026 DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, an international recognition honoring nurses who provide exceptional care and compassion to patients and their families.
Lackey was nominated by a patient who said a simple act of kindness during a pre-operative appointment made a lasting impact during a difficult time in her life.
According to the nomination, the patient became emotional while discussing her upcoming surgery and personal challenges. Reba responded with compassion, offering a comforting hug and taking time to listen.
During the appointment, Reba jokingly referred to a pen she handed the patient as her “good pen.” At the end of the visit, she encouraged the patient to keep it and offered words of support, telling her, “You’ve got this. You can do this.”
The patient later shared that the gesture and encouragement provided strength during a challenging season and that she continues to carry the pen as a reminder of hope and perseverance.
“Thank you, Reba, at AdventHealth Redmond,” the patient wrote. “You gave me strength when I needed it. You picked me up when I was down. You were so kind and genuine with me, even though we had just met.”
As a DAISY Award recipient, Lackey received a certificate, DAISY Award pin, a hand-carved Healer’s Touch sculpture, flowers, and recognition from hospital leadership and colleagues.
The DAISY Award was established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes and is presented worldwide to nurses who demonstrate clinical excellence, compassion, and extraordinary patient care.
VA Says Prosthetic Limb Delivery Times Will Drop For Thousands Of Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs says thousands of Veterans who rely on prosthetic limbs should soon receive them faster after the agency streamlined its purchasing process.
According to the VA, previous procurement rules required all prosthetic limb orders to be approved by a contracting officer, adding several weeks to delivery times. On April 22, 2026, VA Secretary Doug Collins exempted about 95 percent of prosthetic limb orders from that review process.
The change allows local purchasing agents to order directly from local suppliers when prosthetic limb prices are already set by Medicare. VA officials say that removes unnecessary review steps where no price negotiation is needed.
The VA says the changes have already reduced wait times by about 10 days. Once fully implemented nationwide, the department expects average delivery times to fall by more than 40 percent, from 94 days to 54 days.
“Every day counts for Veterans,” Collins said, adding that the changes are aimed at helping clinicians and procurement teams provide prosthetic care faster.
More than 45,000 Veterans receive major limb loss care through the VA each year.