Arrest Report - Tuesday - July 14, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, July 14, 2026:
Rainy Pattern Continues Today Before Summer Heat Builds Later This Week
Residents of Chattooga County and northwest Georgia can expect another unsettled day of weather Tuesday as a slow-moving weather system continues to bring widespread showers and thunderstorms across the region. While the soaking rainfall has helped ease the recent stretch of extreme heat, forecasters say the pattern will gradually transition back to typical summertime conditions later this week, with temperatures climbing into the 90s and heat index values once again approaching or exceeding 100 degrees.
According to the National Weather Service, showers are likely throughout much of Tuesday, with thunderstorms becoming more numerous during the afternoon and evening hours. The greatest coverage is expected between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., although additional rounds of rain and thunderstorms are possible into Tuesday night. Tuesday’s high temperature is expected to reach around 82 degrees under mostly cloudy skies, with easterly winds around 5 mph and gusts up to 15 mph.
Rain chances decrease somewhat Tuesday night, but a few lingering showers and thunderstorms remain possible before skies begin to partially clear overnight. Temperatures will fall to around 69 degrees.
The unsettled weather will continue into Wednesday as another round of showers and thunderstorms develops, particularly during the afternoon. Wednesday’s high is expected to reach approximately 86 degrees before thunderstorms taper off Wednesday evening.
Meteorologists say the current weather pattern is being driven by a weakening area of high pressure to the north and a broad area of low pressure across the south-central and southeastern United States. As the low pressure system gradually weakens and shifts westward toward Texas during the middle of the week, Georgia will transition back into a more familiar summertime weather pattern.
Instead of widespread rain covering much of the state, thunderstorms will become more isolated to scattered and will primarily develop during the hottest part of the afternoon as daytime heating combines with abundant Gulf moisture. Even though storm coverage will become less widespread, any thunderstorm that develops will still have the potential to produce very heavy rainfall.
Forecasters note that atmospheric moisture levels will remain unusually high through much of the week, with precipitable water values exceeding two inches. That means slow-moving thunderstorms will be capable of producing torrential downpours in a short period of time, leading to localized flooding in poor drainage areas, along roadways, and in low-lying locations. Motorists are encouraged to use caution if they encounter water covering roadways and should never attempt to drive through flooded areas.
While widespread severe weather is not anticipated, thunderstorms will still be capable of producing dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning, gusty winds, and brief periods of reduced visibility due to heavy rain.
Beginning Thursday, rain chances will decrease to about 50 percent during the afternoon and evening as sunshine becomes more prevalent. High temperatures will climb to around 90 degrees Thursday and remain in the lower 90s through the weekend. Daily afternoon and evening thunderstorms will continue to develop, but they are expected to be more typical of July, affecting scattered locations rather than the entire region.
By Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, afternoon highs are forecast to reach between 90 and 92 degrees with overnight lows remaining in the lower 70s. Combined with the increasing humidity, afternoon heat index values are expected to rise back into the upper 90s and lower 100s.
The National Weather Service says portions of Georgia, particularly areas south and east of metro Atlanta, could approach Heat Advisory criteria later this week if forecast temperatures and humidity continue to increase. While northwest Georgia may remain just below advisory levels, residents should still be prepared for hot and humid conditions and take precautions if spending extended time outdoors.
Looking ahead to early next week, forecasters expect a large area of high pressure to build across the western United States. That pattern will place Georgia in a northwesterly flow aloft, allowing occasional weather disturbances to move into the Southeast. Those disturbances could bring periodic increases in thunderstorm activity while maintaining the familiar cycle of hot mornings, scattered afternoon storms, and warm, humid nights.
Residents are encouraged to monitor the latest forecasts throughout the week, particularly if planning outdoor activities. Keep an eye on the sky for developing thunderstorms, move indoors when thunder is heard, and stay hydrated as summer heat begins to return.
Georgia Gas Prices Tick Up Slightly as Summer Travel, Oil Costs Push Prices Higher
After several weeks of declining fuel prices, Georgia motorists are seeing a slight increase at the pump as higher crude oil prices and strong summer travel demand begin to push gasoline prices upward.
According to AAA, the Georgia average for regular unleaded is now $3.58 per gallon, up 4 cents from last week, but still 21 cents lower than a month ago. Drivers are paying about 66 cents more than they were this time last year, with a typical 15-gallon fill-up costing approximately $53.55.
“While Georgia drivers are paying a bit more at the pump this week, the increase remains relatively modest,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Fluctuations in crude oil prices, seasonal travel demand and conflict in the Middle East continue to influence fuel cost. Drivers should continue to expect routine price changes throughout the summer driving season.”
Nationally, the average price for regular gasoline climbed 7 cents to $3.88 per gallon, ending a steady decline that began in late May. AAA says uncertainty surrounding conflict in the Middle East continues to influence global oil markets, even as crude oil remains in the low $70-per-barrel range.
Local AAA Average Gas Prices
Georgia
- Chattooga County: $3.55
- Floyd County: $3.56
- Walker County: $3.55 (AAA Catoosa-Dade-Walker average)
- Gordon County: $3.52
Alabama
- DeKalb County: $3.43
- Cherokee County: $3.43
AAA encourages motorists to compare prices before filling up, enroll in fuel rewards programs when available, maintain proper tire pressure, and avoid aggressive driving to improve fuel economy. Drivers can also use the AAA TripTik Travel Planner to locate the lowest gas prices and electric vehicle charging stations along their routes.
City of Summerville to Celebrate Recreation Improvements with Two Open House Events
The City of Summerville is inviting the public to attend two open house celebrations later this month highlighting recent improvements to the city’s recreational facilities.
The first event will be held Wednesday, July 22, at 11 a.m. at the Summerville Recreation Center, where city officials will celebrate the installation of the facility’s new gymnasium HVAC system.
A second celebration is scheduled for Friday, July 24, at 8:30 p.m. at Dunson Field, where the city will officially unveil the new MUSCO ballfield lighting system during youth baseball and softball games.
Summerville Parks and Recreation Director Adam Wilson said both events are open to the public, and residents are encouraged to attend as the city marks the completion of these important recreation projects.
American Red Cross Declares Emergency Blood Shortage, Urges Donors to Give Now
The American Red Cross is asking donors to roll up their sleeves after declaring an emergency blood shortage caused by a sharp decline in donations during June. The organization says its blood supply dropped nearly 25 percent, creating a growing gap between available blood and hospital demand. The shortage is especially critical for platelets, O-positive blood, and B-negative blood.
According to the Red Cross, hospitals are currently using nearly 3,500 more units of blood each week than expected, while summer vacations, busy schedules and the seasonal loss of school blood drives have contributed to fewer donations. Officials warn that if the trend continues, patient care could be affected.
“A readily available blood supply serves as the backbone of modern medicine,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, medical director for the Red Cross. “Emergency departments, operating rooms and labor and delivery units can’t support patients with the most urgent needs, and cancer patients must wait. We’re asking donors to give now before doctors are forced to make those difficult decisions.”
The Red Cross notes that someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion every two seconds, yet fewer than one in five people realize blood cannot be stockpiled because of its limited shelf life.
To encourage donations, everyone who gives blood between July 13 and July 31 will receive a Fandango movie ticket by email, valid for up to $15 toward the ticket price and fees. Appointments can be scheduled through the Blood Donor App, at RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
The nearest scheduled blood drives in the region include Chatsworth on July 14 and Rockmart on July 16.
AdventHealth Redmond Hosting Hiring Event Friday in Rome
AdventHealth Redmond will hold a hiring event Friday, July 17, as the hospital works to fill a variety of clinical and support positions.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. in Classrooms A and B at AdventHealth Redmond in Rome. Hospital leaders will be available to conduct interviews, with same-day job offers and sign-on bonuses available for certain positions.
Openings are available in several departments, including registered nursing, radiology, respiratory therapy, physical therapy, surgical services and environmental services.
New employees are eligible for a benefits package beginning on their first day, including paid time off, professional development opportunities and student loan repayment assistance for qualifying positions.
Candidates are encouraged to register in advance through the AdventHealth Careers website.
Chattooga County Back to School Bash Fully Stocked Ahead of Thursday Event
Chattooga County Community Resource Center Director Maisha Ludy says the community has provided every item needed for this year’s Back to School Bash, several days before the event.
Ludy announced Monday that all requested school supplies and other needed items have been collected. She said that in six years of coordinating the event, the organization has never completed its supply collection this far in advance.
The annual Back to School Bash will be held Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. at Chattooga High School.
The event will include free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, community resources and other activities for local students and families.
Organizers remind parents and guardians that children must be present to receive a backpack and school supplies.
Ludy thanked residents, businesses and organizations across the county for their generosity and support, saying the early response reflects the strength of the Chattooga County community.
Trion Schools Seeking Renewal of Education SPLOST, Bonding Authority
The Trion City School System is asking the Trion Town Council to support placing a renewal of the Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, or ESPLOST, on the November ballot to continue funding major capital improvements without increasing property taxes.
Speaking during a recent council work session, Superintendent Howard Hughes said the current ESPLOST cycle is ending, and both the Chattooga County and Trion school systems are working to renew the one-cent sales tax. The proposal would also allow Trion City Schools to seek up to $9 million in bonding authority, giving the school system the flexibility to begin major projects sooner and repay the debt with future ESPLOST collections.
Hughes emphasized the $9 million figure represents a maximum borrowing limit, not an immediate commitment to borrow that amount. He noted the district has a history of conservative financial management and has successfully used bonded ESPLOST funds for projects including the high school gymnasium and other campus improvements.
If voters approve the renewal, Hughes said future projects could include security camera and safety upgrades, classroom technology and software, land purchases, classroom renovations, continued athletic facility improvements, and eventually establishing a healthcare pathway at Trion High School to allow students to graduate with a nursing-related certification or similar credential.
The Trion Town Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the ESPLOST referendum to appear on the November ballot alongside the county school system’s renewal question. Final approval will rest with voters this fall.
Summerville Resident Reports Vehicle Keyed While Away From Home
A Summerville man reported that his vehicle was intentionally damaged while it was parked outside his apartment, according to a report from the Summerville Police Department.
Police responded to 50 Saratoga Way, Apartment A20, at approximately 8:19 p.m. on June 29 after Garry Lovingood, 63, requested to file a report about his vehicle being keyed.
According to the incident report, Lovingood told Officer J. Pledger he discovered the damage after returning from out of town and believes it occurred while his 2011 white Nissan Murano was parked in the apartment complex parking lot. He said he did not know who may have been responsible and declined to identify any possible suspects because he was uncertain.
Officer Pledger documented the damage, photographed the vehicle, and noted in the report that the scratch appeared to be fresh. Police also advised Lovingood that officers would conduct extra patrols in the area.
The incident was documented as non-criminal damage to a vehicle, and no suspects have been identified.
Chattooga County Historical Society to Feature Local Veteran Who Took Part in Historic World Events
The Chattooga County Historical Society invites everyone to its Summer Meeting on Sunday, July 19, at 2 p.m. at the historic Summerville Depot for a fascinating program featuring one of Chattooga County’s own whose life placed him at the center of several significant moments in American history.
Every person’s story is an important part of Chattooga County’s history. Occasionally, however, one of our citizens becomes involved in events that reach far beyond our county and become part of our nation’s history.
That is certainly true of Jim Lenderman, a Chattooga County native who joined the United States Marine Corps after graduating from college in 1975. Through skill, determination and exceptional training, Lenderman became an accomplished helicopter pilot whose military career placed him in some important events of the late twentieth century.
One of the highlights of the program will be Lenderman’s firsthand account of the 1980 mission to rescue the 53 Americans being held hostage in Iran. Although the rescue attempt ultimately was unsuccessful, the operation influenced the future of the U.S. military. Lenderman will briefly discuss the mission itself, the training, the challenges involved and his personal observations.
During the presidency of Ronald Reagan, Lenderman was selected to fly Marine One, transporting President Reagan and Vice President George H. W. Bush. He will share what it was like to serve in one of the military’s most prestigious assignments and the responsibility that came with flying the President of the United States.
His distinguished career also included service as a helicopter pilot during Operation Desert Storm in Kuwait, where he participated in another major chapter of American military history.
In addition to hearing about these historic events, attendees will hear the personal side of Lenderman’s experiences. Jim will tell how he prepared for these extraordinary assignments, what it was like piloting large military helicopters under demanding conditions, which moments remain most vivid in his memory, and whether he ever imagined that a young man growing up in Chattooga County would one day find himself participating in these events. An opportunity for questions will follow Jim’s talk.
These are the kinds of stories that preserve not only our nation’s history but also the stories of Chattooga County. They remind us that history is often made by ordinary people from ordinary communities who are called upon to do extraordinary things.
The meeting is free and open to the public, and everyone with an interest in local, military or American history is encouraged to attend. Join the Chattooga County Historical Society on Sunday, July 19, at 2 p.m. at the Summerville Depot for an afternoon of history as told by someone who lived it.
Georgia Health Officials Urge Precautions Against Cyclosporiasis
The Georgia Department of Public Health is urging residents to take extra precautions when purchasing, preparing and eating fresh fruits and vegetables to help prevent cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora.
DPH says it is not currently aware of any Georgia-specific outbreaks, clusters or confirmed links to the multistate outbreak that has sickened more than 1,000 people. A national investigation into possible common sources remains underway.
People can become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Treated water in the United States does not contain Cyclospora. Although cases are reported in Georgia each year, many are typically associated with international travel.
The most common symptom is watery diarrhea, which may include frequent or explosive bowel movements. Other symptoms can include bloating, cramping and loss of appetite. While most people recover without treatment, some patients may require hospitalization because of dehydration. The illness can last from several days to more than a month, and symptoms may disappear and later return.
Health officials recommend several steps to reduce the risk of infection:
- Wash hands with soap and water before and after handling raw produce.
- Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
- Do not rewash produce labeled “prewashed.”
- Scrub firm produce, including melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.
- Remove damaged or bruised areas before preparing food.
- Refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked produce within two hours.
Anyone experiencing prolonged symptoms is encouraged to contact a healthcare provider.
Allen Considering Moratorium on Tiny Home and Container Home Developments in Chattooga County
Allen held a public meeting last week to hear residents’ views on the issue. He told WZQZ News on Monday that those attending expressed strong opinions both for and against a moratorium, as well as differing views about tiny homes in general.
The commissioner said his concerns are not directed at private property owners who want to build a small home on their own land for themselves or a family member. Instead, Allen said the county needs to address larger projects proposed by developers, particularly developments involving multiple tiny homes, shipping containers converted into residences or similar non-traditional structures.
Allen said public safety is one of the primary concerns. He specifically cited the possibility that some container homes already located in the county may have only one exit. That could create a dangerous situation for occupants during a fire or other emergency and make it more difficult for firefighters and other first responders to enter or evacuate the structure safely.
Georgia treats a tiny home used as a residence as a dwelling, meaning it is generally subject to the same state building-code requirements as a conventional site-built home. The Georgia Department of Community Affairs notes that local governments may also adopt a special tiny-house appendix to the residential code, but that appendix applies only where it has been adopted locally.
Other Georgia counties have taken different approaches. In 2022, Rabun County imposed a short-term moratorium on non-traditional developments not specifically addressed by its ordinances. The moratorium included tiny homes, container homes, park-model homes, yurts, tent communities, treehouses and other projects while county leaders reviewed regulations intended to protect public health, safety and welfare.
Hall County has chosen to regulate tiny homes through minimum construction standards rather than broadly prohibiting them. The county requires a dwelling to contain more than 256 square feet of heated space, and neither its length nor width may be less than 16 feet, excluding features such as porches, decks and carports.
Allen said Chattooga County must determine what rules are appropriate locally before additional large-scale developments move forward. A temporary moratorium, if adopted, would give the county time to study matters such as building standards, emergency exits, utility service, sanitation, density, road access and the effects of larger developments on nearby property owners.
No final decision on a moratorium has been announced
LaFayette to Build New Wrestling Facility as Recreation Program Continues Rapid Growth
The City of LaFayette is investing in the future of its youth wrestling program with the construction of a new dedicated facility, providing a permanent home for a program that has grown significantly over the past decade.
The LaFayette City Council approved a $659,000 project during its June meeting to construct the new wrestling facility using Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds designated for recreational improvements.
The building will be located near the Villanow Street entrance to the city’s Pollinator Trail and will also include an outdoor ADA-accessible restroom that will serve both the wrestling facility and trail users.
City officials said construction costs will be reduced by using an existing steel building frame already owned by the city, along with in-house labor whenever possible. City Project Manager Clay Tracy, who recently oversaw the construction of Traverse Park, is managing the project.
The LaFayette Recreation wrestling program was established nearly 10 years ago to help develop young athletes before they advance to middle and high school wrestling programs. The program began in a small space at the former ShopRite shopping center before relocating several times between the Old High School Gym and Max Stoker.
Participation has steadily increased over the years. More than 100 wrestlers enrolled in the program last season, representing a 25 percent increase from the previous year.
The program has also enjoyed competitive success, producing multiple state champions across various age groups and divisions while working closely with local schools to provide a smooth transition into school athletics.
As participation continued to grow, city officials said the program outgrew its existing practice space, creating the need for a larger, permanent facility.
Site preparation is already underway, and construction is expected to be completed this winter.
City leaders say the new building will not only accommodate the program’s continued growth but also strengthen youth athletics in LaFayette by providing wrestlers with a dedicated training space for years to come.
Chattooga County Partners with UGA to Strengthen Cybersecurity
Chattooga County is partnering with the University of Georgia to strengthen its cybersecurity through the UGA CyberArch Program, a statewide initiative that helps local governments identify vulnerabilities, assess risk and improve their digital defenses.
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen said the partnership will provide the county with access to cybersecurity expertise that would otherwise be difficult for a rural county to obtain. Under the agreement, CyberArch staff will work with county officials to review existing systems, conduct pre-assessment surveys, perform onsite or virtual evaluations and provide a final report outlining cybersecurity risks and recommendations.
Allen said protecting sensitive government information and critical systems is a priority, noting that cybersecurity is no longer an issue local governments can afford to ignore. The program is designed to strengthen safeguards for county operations while helping ensure residents’ information remains secure.
Assessment work is expected to begin later this summer. According to the agreement, there is no cost to Chattooga County for CyberArch program services, with each party responsible only for its own expenses.
The agreement was signed earlier this month by Commissioner Andy Allen.
Arrest Report - Monday - July 13, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, July 13, 2026:
Widespread Rain and Thunderstorms Expected Through Tuesday Before Typical Summer Pattern Returns
Residents across Chattooga County and northwest Georgia should prepare for a wet start to the week as a slow-moving weather system brings numerous showers and thunderstorms through Tuesday before conditions gradually return to a more typical summertime pattern later in the week.
Rain and thunderstorms are expected throughout the day Monday with a high near 82 degrees. The chance of rain is 80 percent, and some locations could receive between a quarter and one-half inch of rainfall, with locally higher amounts in heavier thunderstorms. Showers and storms will continue Monday night before gradually diminishing after midnight.
The unsettled weather is being driven by a weak upper-level low pressure system interacting with an unusually moist air mass. National Weather Service forecasters say the atmosphere contains moisture levels near the 90th percentile for mid-July, increasing the potential for heavy downpours. While the overall threat for severe weather is lower Monday because of extensive cloud cover, a few stronger storms could still produce isolated damaging wind gusts. Slow-moving storms may also lead to localized flooding in poor drainage areas.
Rain chances remain high on Tuesday, with showers and thunderstorms likely throughout the day and a high again near 82 degrees. The chance of precipitation increases to 90 percent before storms taper off Tuesday night.
By Wednesday, the weather pattern becomes more typical for July, with mainly afternoon and evening thunderstorms developing from daytime heating. High temperatures will climb into the mid-80s Wednesday before warming into the upper 80s Thursday and reaching the lower 90s by Friday and through the upcoming weekend.
Although afternoon storm chances will continue each day, coverage is expected to become more scattered later in the week, allowing temperatures to return to seasonal levels.
Chattooga County Coroner Warns Families About Funeral Home Impersonation Scam
The Chattooga County Coroner’s Office is warning residents about a scam targeting grieving families following the death of a loved one.
In a public alert, Coroner Jeremy A. McElhaney said scammers are posing as funeral home employees after monitoring online obituaries. The scammers then contact family members and demand immediate payment, falsely claiming to represent the funeral home handling funeral arrangements.
McElhaney urged anyone receiving such a call not to provide any personal or financial information. Instead, he advises families to hang up and contact their funeral home directly using a trusted phone number to verify whether the call is legitimate.
“I personally know the owner/operators of all three Chattooga County funeral homes and can assure you that is not the way they conduct business,” McElhaney said.
Residents are encouraged to share the warning to help prevent others from becoming victims of the scam.
Summerville Man Facing Animal Cruelty Charge Following Police Investigation
A Summerville man is expected to face an animal cruelty charge following an investigation into reports that a dog was being kept without adequate food, water or shelter during hot weather, according to the Summerville Police Department.
Police were dispatched at approximately 7:54 p.m. on July 1 after receiving a complaint about a dog allegedly being neglected. According to the incident report, the complainant identified the dog’s owner as Dakota Marks and reported seeing the dog tied to a tree with a ratchet strap.
When officers arrived, they found a large dog secured by a ratchet strap with one end attached to the animal and the other fastened to a tree. The report states the immediate area contained no shelter from the heat, no accessible food, and the only water container had a crack in the bottom, preventing it from serving as a reliable water source. Officers also noted the area was heavily littered with trash and that the restraint was not long enough for the dog to reach a nearby camper.
The responding officer photographed the scene and requested assistance from Animal Control. Attempts to locate Marks at the location were unsuccessful.
According to the report, a warrant was issued for Dakota Marks on a charge of Cruelty to Animals.
Magician Arthur Atsma Bringing Interactive Show to Chattooga County Library Tuesday
Families looking for free summertime entertainment are invited to the Chattooga County Library on Tuesday afternoon for an interactive magic show featuring nationally recognized entertainer Arthur Atsma.
The performance begins at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, at the Chattooga County Library, located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville. The event is presented by the Sara Hightower Regional Library System and is free and open to the public.
Atsma is known for combining comedy, audience participation and fast-paced illusions into a family-friendly performance designed to entertain children and adults alike. Organizers say the show features a variety of performance arts woven into an engaging magical adventure that has delighted audiences around the world.
The program is part of the library’s summer activities and provides local families with another opportunity to enjoy free educational and recreational programming during the school break.
Summerville Resident Reports Handgun Missing After Parking Vehicle
A Summerville man has reported a handgun missing after discovering it was no longer inside his vehicle, according to the Summerville Police Department.
Police say James Parker contacted dispatch on June 28, 2026, to report that his Taurus G3 9mm handgun was missing. Parker told officers he believes someone stole the firearm while his vehicle was parked on Hawkins Drive.
According to the incident report, Parker last saw the handgun at approximately 8:30 p.m. on June 27 and discovered it missing around 1:30 a.m. on June 28. The firearm was identified by its serial number in the report.
The incident remains under investigation by the Summerville Police Department, and no suspects have been identified.