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.
CHS Class of 1996 Plans 30th Class Reunion
The Chattooga High School Class of 1996 is making plans to celebrate its 30-year class reunion this fall.
Organizers are currently planning to hold the reunion on Saturday, October 3, 2026, and are encouraging classmates to reconnect and help spread the word to fellow graduates.
Those wishing to stay updated on reunion plans can join the Facebook group “CHS Class of 1996 – 30-Year Reunion.” The group will provide information about the event, including location, schedule, and other announcements as plans are finalized.
Classmates who are not on Facebook can contact reunion organizer Ben Sellers by email at nauticalarch@yahoo.com to receive updates and additional details.
Organizers encourage members of the Class of 1996 to reach out to former classmates and help make the reunion a memorable celebration.
Chattooga County Offices to Close July 3 for Independence Day Holiday
Chattooga County transit services, administrative offices, and other county departments will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of the Independence Day holiday.
County officials say the Chattooga County Transfer Station and county dump sites will remain open and operate on their regular schedules.
For emergencies or any issue requiring a county crew to be dispatched, residents should call 911.
County officials wished residents a safe and enjoyable Independence Day weekend and offered thanks to all who have served the country and those who continue working to protect America’s freedom.
Social Security and SSI Recipients Can Expect Several Payment Dates in July
Millions of Americans who receive Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will receive their July payments according to the Social Security Administration’s regular payment schedule, with one important change affecting some recipients.
SSI recipients are scheduled to receive their regular July payment on Wednesday, July 1. Because August 1 falls on a Saturday, the August SSI payment will be issued early on Friday, July 31. While that means SSI recipients will receive two deposits during July, the second payment is not extra money—it is the August benefit being paid in advance. As a result, there will be no separate SSI payment during August.
People who began receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997, or who receive both Social Security and SSI, will receive their July Social Security payment on Thursday, July 2, because the normal July 3 payment date falls on the observed Independence Day federal holiday.
For everyone else, Social Security retirement, survivor, and disability benefits will be paid based on birth date:
- July 8: Birthdays on the 1st through the 10th
- July 15: Birthdays on the 11th through the 20th
- July 22: Birthdays on the 21st through the 31st
The Social Security Administration recommends allowing up to three mailing days before reporting a missing payment if your benefit does not arrive on the expected date
New Georgia Program Aims to Protect Farmland From Development
Georgia is taking steps to slow the loss of farmland as rapid growth continues across the state.
According to WABE, Georgia could lose as many as 800,000 acres of farmland by 2040—roughly 10 percent of the state’s agricultural land—as farms are converted into housing developments, warehouses, data centers, and other commercial uses.
To help preserve working farms, the state has launched the Georgia Farmland Conservation Fund, a program created by the General Assembly in 2023 and administered by the Georgia Department of Agriculture. The fund allows farmers to voluntarily sell the development rights to their property through conservation easements while continuing to own, farm, and even sell the land in the future. The property, however, cannot later be developed for non-agricultural uses.
The General Assembly appropriated $2 million for the program’s first funding cycle. Applications closed in May, and selected applicants are expected to be notified in August. The state funding can be combined with federal, local, and nonprofit conservation dollars to help protect more farmland.
Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper has called the projected loss of farmland “a staggering statistic,” noting that agriculture remains Georgia’s largest industry. Supporters say the program offers farmers another option besides selling their land for development, helping preserve family farms, strengthen the state’s food supply, and protect rural communities for future generations.
Arrest Report - Sunday - June 28, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, June 28, 2026:
Hot And Mostly Dry Weather Continues Across Chattooga County
Expect another hot and humid day across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, with only a limited chance for relief from scattered afternoon thunderstorms.
Today, there is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 2 p.m. After that, skies will become mostly sunny with a high near 91 degrees. Heat index values could climb as high as 98 degrees, making it feel several degrees hotter during the afternoon. Winds will be light out of the west at around 5 mph, with occasional gusts up to 15 mph. Tonight will be mostly clear and warm with a low around 74.
The heat intensifies Monday as sunshine returns and temperatures climb to around 95 degrees. When humidity is factored in, it could feel as hot as 102 degrees during the afternoon. Monday night will remain mostly clear with temperatures only falling to around 75.
Tuesday brings another sunny, hot day with a high near 95. Only a slight 20 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms is expected, with rain chances ending quickly after sunset.
The forecast changes very little through the remainder of the work week. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday will feature mostly sunny skies, afternoon highs in the mid-90s, and overnight lows in the mid-70s. Rain chances remain low, meaning many locations could go several more days without measurable rainfall.
Looking ahead to Independence Day on Saturday, expect another hot summer day with a high near 95 degrees. A 20 percent chance of an afternoon or evening thunderstorm is in the forecast, but most communities should remain dry for outdoor celebrations and fireworks.
Sheriff Warns Residents About Phone Scam Targeting Chattooga County
Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader is warning residents about a phone scam targeting local citizens.
According to Sheriff Schrader, the Sheriff’s Office received four reports in one day from residents who were contacted by scammers claiming money was owed for missed court dates, civil matters, or bond-related issues. In one case, a victim reportedly lost $2,000.
Sheriff Schrader emphasized that the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, and other legitimate law enforcement agencies, will never call residents and demand payment over the telephone. Law enforcement will not ask anyone to put money on gift cards, prepaid cards, or any other type of card to resolve court issues or bond someone out of jail.
Residents who receive suspicious calls should hang up and contact law enforcement directly using a verified phone number. Sheriff Schrader is asking the public to share the warning with family, friends, and neighbors to help prevent others from becoming victims.
Dangerous Heat Expected Across Northwest Georgia This Week
A prolonged stretch of dangerous heat is expected to impact Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this week, with afternoon temperatures climbing into the 90s and heat index values frequently reaching between 100 and 105 degrees.
Forecasters say the heat will build as a strong area of high pressure settles over the eastern United States, creating several days of hot, humid conditions. Overnight lows are also expected to remain warm, offering only limited relief after sunset.
While isolated to scattered afternoon thunderstorms remain possible on most days, they are not expected to provide widespread cooling. Any storms that do develop could bring brief heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds, but many areas may stay hot and humid through the day.
The combination of high temperatures, humidity, and warm nights will increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Outdoor workers, athletes, older adults, young children, and those without reliable air conditioning should take extra precautions.
Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of water, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, wear lightweight clothing, and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning. Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles.
The hot and humid pattern is expected to continue through much of this week, with little widespread relief anticipated before next weekend.
Chattooga High School Football Program Seeking Business Ads and Player Dedications
Local businesses, families, and supporters of Chattooga High School Football have an opportunity to be part of the 2026 football program while helping support the Indians during the upcoming season.
Businesses can purchase advertising space in the full-color football program, with options including a full-page ad for $125, a half-page ad for $75, a quarter-page ad for $40, or a business card-sized ad for $25. Businesses may submit a ready-made advertisement or provide text and photos for the Computer Science Club to design. A $10 design fee applies for ads requiring layout assistance. The deadline for business advertisements is Friday, July 17.
Families and friends can also recognize student-athletes by purchasing a dedication in the football program. Dedications are available at the same pricing levels—full page, half page, quarter page, and business card size—and may include photos and personalized messages. The deadline for student-athlete dedications is Saturday, July 11.
Both forms list the submission email as spiritshop@chattooga.k12.ga.us. Additional information is available by contacting the Chattooga High School Computer Science Club at 706-857-2402, extension 3141.
USAA Drivers in Georgia to See Auto Insurance Rate Reduction
More than 200,000 Georgia drivers insured through the USAA Group of Companies are expected to see lower auto insurance premiums following a newly approved rate reduction announced by Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King. The overall decrease averages about 2.6 percent and is expected to save Georgia policyholders more than $33 million statewide.
The rate reductions vary by company within the USAA group, with decreases of 4.7 percent for Garrison Property and Casualty Insurance Company, 4.5 percent for USAA Casualty Insurance Company, and 2.4 percent for USAA General Indemnity Company. Commissioner King said the reductions reflect a more competitive insurance marketplace and ongoing efforts to improve affordability for Georgia families.
In addition to the lower rates, USAA has increased its SafePilot participation discount from 10 percent to 15 percent, giving eligible policyholders another opportunity to reduce their premiums. State officials say the latest filing continues a trend of recent auto insurance rate reductions in Georgia as regulators work to increase competition and lower costs for consumers.
Georgia Law Allows Consumer Fireworks, But Safety Should Come First
As Independence Day approaches, many families across Northwest Georgia are preparing to celebrate with fireworks. While Georgia law allows the use of many consumer fireworks, officials are reminding residents that safety should remain the top priority.
Under Georgia law, adults 18 and older may legally purchase and use consumer fireworks, including sparklers, fountains, Roman candles, bottle rockets, aerial shells, and firecrackers. Consumer fireworks may generally be used between 10 a.m. and 11:59 p.m. on most days, with special holiday provisions applying around Independence Day and certain other holidays.
State law also prohibits using fireworks indoors, in the right-of-way of public roads or railroads, and within 100 yards of hospitals, nursing homes, electric substations, gas stations, and certain other sensitive facilities.
Fire officials recommend celebrating responsibly by using fireworks only on a flat, open surface away from homes, trees, vehicles, and dry grass. Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby, never allow young children to handle fireworks without close adult supervision, and never relight a firework that fails to ignite.
Pets are often frightened by the loud noises associated with fireworks, so owners are encouraged to keep animals indoors in a secure, familiar environment. Residents should also be considerate of neighbors, veterans, and others who may be sensitive to the loud explosions.
Anyone attending a professional fireworks display is encouraged to leave the fireworks to trained experts, who are licensed and follow strict safety regulations.
Rising Temperatures Could Bring Higher Georgia Power Bills for Many Families
As temperatures climb into the 90s across Northwest Georgia this week, many Georgia Power customers could see their electric bills rise as air conditioners work harder to keep homes cool.
For moderate- and low-income households, the combination of prolonged heat and higher electricity use can place added strain on already tight budgets. During extended periods of hot weather, air conditioning often becomes the largest source of household energy consumption, especially during the afternoon and early evening when temperatures and demand are at their highest.
Energy experts recommend setting thermostats as high as is comfortably possible, using ceiling fans to improve air circulation, keeping blinds and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day, and replacing dirty HVAC filters to improve system efficiency. Avoiding the use of ovens, dryers, and other heat-producing appliances during peak afternoon hours can also help reduce electricity use.
Families struggling to pay utility bills are encouraged to contact Georgia Power before an account becomes delinquent. The company offers payment arrangements, budget billing options, and information about energy assistance programs that may be available through community agencies and nonprofit organizations.
With forecasters expecting heat index values between 100 and 105 degrees on several days this week, officials stress that staying cool is more than a matter of comfort—it’s a matter of safety. Residents should never avoid using air conditioning because of cost if doing so would place their health at risk. Instead, those needing assistance are encouraged to explore available programs, check on elderly neighbors and relatives, and take advantage of cooling centers if they become available.