Arrest Report - Tuesday - April 28, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, April 28, 2026:
Severe Storm Threat Returns To Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
An unsettled weather pattern is moving into Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this week, bringing several rounds of showers and thunderstorms and the potential for strong to severe storms.
Forecasters say the first round of storms could impact Northwest Georgia Tuesday morning, with additional storms possible Tuesday night into Wednesday. Some storms may become strong to severe, with damaging wind gusts, hail, and an isolated spin-up tornado among the main concerns.
The greatest concern for Chattooga County and surrounding areas appears to be during the Tuesday night into early Wednesday time frame, when another organized line of storms is expected to move in from the west. While storms may weaken as they move across Georgia, residents are still encouraged to stay weather-aware.
Despite multiple rounds of rain in the forecast, forecasters say the ongoing drought is not expected to see much meaningful improvement. Dry conditions continue to impact parts of Northwest Georgia, and rainfall totals may not be enough to provide long-term relief.
Temperatures will remain fairly seasonal through midweek, with highs generally in the 70s and 80s. A cooler and wetter pattern is expected late in the week and into the weekend, with more rain chances possible Friday night into Saturday.
Residents should monitor the forecast closely, especially Tuesday and Wednesday, and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings in case severe storms develop.
Chattooga County Rabies Clinic Scheduled
Summerville Veterinary Clinic will host a rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, May 16, at Chattooga High School.
The clinic will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the school’s parking lot. Pet owners are asked to enter from the Highway 100 entrance and follow posted signs and arrows.
Rabies vaccinations will be available for $10 each. The clinic will be conducted as a drive-through service, with pets remaining inside vehicles while vaccinations are administered.
Organizers say the event offers a convenient and affordable way for residents to keep their pets up to date on rabies vaccinations.
Chattooga County Plant Swap Set For May 2 In Teloga
The 6th Annual Chattooga County Plant Swap is set to take place Saturday, May 2, at Teloga Spring Farm in Summerville.
The event will be held at the farm, located at 9505 Highway 337, and will bring together plant lovers from across the community for a day of sharing and fellowship.
Attendees are encouraged to bring plants to swap, trade, or share with others. Organizers say the event is designed to promote gardening, sustainability, and community connection.
In addition to the plant swap, the event will feature a bake sale, a variety of vendors, and food trucks. Donations collected during the event will benefit the Animal Advocates of Chattooga County and the Teloga Fire Department.
Organizers note the event will be cash-only, and cell service may be limited in the area.
The plant swap continues to grow each year, offering residents a chance to exchange plants, learn from fellow gardeners, and enjoy a day outdoors.
Hurley Community Development Center Earns Michael L. Starr Award
A major preservation project in Summerville has received one of Georgia’s top historic preservation honors.
The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation has awarded the 2026 Michael L. Starr Award to the Hurley Community Development Center, recognizing the project as an outstanding example of historic rehabilitation with meaningful impact on its downtown community.
The honor was announced ahead of the Trust’s annual Preservation Awards ceremony, held April 25 at the Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta. The Michael L. Starr Award is given to projects that meet the highest standards of preservation while contributing significantly to the vitality of the surrounding area.
In a letter announcing the award, Georgia Trust President and CEO W. Wright Mitchell commended the project’s excellence and its positive influence on Summerville’s downtown.
The Hurley Community Development Center project involved extensive planning, restoration, and collaboration among design and engineering partners to preserve the structure’s historic character while adapting it for modern community use.
Leaders and project representatives were recognized during the ceremony, where preservation efforts from across the state were celebrated.
The recognition highlights continued investment in preserving Summerville’s historic assets and underscores the importance of adaptive reuse in strengthening local communities.
Back To School Bash Seeking Donations And Community Partners
Chattooga Family Connection is preparing for this year’s Back to School Bash, scheduled for Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 4 until 6 PM at Chattooga High School.
Organizer Maisha Ludy says last year’s event was a major success, serving a total of 396 students as they prepared to return to the classroom. That included 254 elementary students, 97 middle school students and 45 high school students.
This year, organizers are hoping to make the event even bigger and better for local families. They are currently accepting school supply donations, monetary donations, and community partners or vendors who would like to set up at the event and share helpful resources with families.
The Back to School Bash will serve students from both Chattooga and Trion. Families will be able to connect with local resources while students receive support and supplies for the upcoming school year.
Anyone interested in donating, partnering, or setting up as a vendor can contact Maisha Ludy at 706-388-9849 or email maishaludy@gmail.com.
Trion Athletics Hosting Multiple Youth Sports Camps This Summer
Trion athletics programs are gearing up for a busy summer, offering several youth sports camps for local students looking to build skills and stay active.
The Trion Bulldog Basketball Kiddie Camp is set for June 17-18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a cost of $30 per child. The camp is open to upcoming 3rd through 7th graders for the 2026–2027 school year.
Trion Football will also host a youth camp June 3-5 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Sam R. McCain Stadium. The camp is open to children ages 5 through 12 and will include instruction from coaches and players. Cost is $30 per camper and includes a T-shirt, with registration and payment accepted at the stadium.
In addition, Trion High School Softball will hold a youth camp June 1-2 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the J.W. Greenwood Athletic Complex softball field. The camp is open to ages 5 through 12, costs $30, and includes a T-shirt. Participants are asked to bring a water bottle, bat, and glove, and to register by May 8 to guarantee a shirt.
All camps will focus on fundamentals, skill development, and providing a fun learning environment for young athletes.
AdventHealth Redmond Earns National Nursing Excellence Designation
AdventHealth Redmond has earned the prestigious Pathway to Excellence® designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, a national recognition honoring health care organizations that create healthy, empowering work environments where nurses can thrive.
Hospital leaders say the designation reflects AdventHealth Redmond’s commitment to supporting its nursing team, improving job satisfaction, strengthening safety, and enhancing patient outcomes while continuing its mission of delivering whole-person care. Isaac Sendros, president and CEO of AdventHealth Redmond, said the recognition affirms how the hospital cares for team members as they care for the community.
The Pathway to Excellence Program recognizes hospitals that listen to and engage nurses at every level, encourage shared decision-making, and provide resources for professional growth. AdventHealth Redmond says only a select number of hospitals in the region have achieved the designation, placing it among an elite group recognized nationally for nursing excellence.
Chief Nursing Officer Trish Price said the honor reflects a culture where nurses’ voices are heard, their contributions are valued, and they are supported in delivering safe, compassionate, high-quality care each day.
For patients and community members, AdventHealth Redmond says the designation offers added confidence that care is delivered by engaged and supported nurses in an environment focused on safety, collaboration, and excellence.
Austin Sisk Named Good Samaritan Volunteer Of The Year At Atrium Health Floyd
Austin Sisk was honored April 27 as the Atrium Health Floyd Good Samaritan Volunteer of the Year, marking a remarkable milestone in his recovery journey following a life-threatening accident in 2022.
Just months after graduating high school, Sisk suffered a traumatic brain injury in a crash that left him in a coma and on a ventilator. After weeks in intensive care and months of rehabilitation, he regained the ability to walk and speak, continuing therapy through Atrium Health Floyd Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation.
Although his goal of becoming a physical therapy assistant was impacted by his injuries, Sisk chose to return to the rehab gym as a volunteer. Therapists say he now plays a vital role encouraging patients, offering support, and motivating others by sharing his own experience overcoming a traumatic brain injury.
Hospital leaders say Sisk’s recognition represents a “full-circle moment,” highlighting his resilience, compassion, and ability to inspire others facing similar challenges.
Sisk is joined by three other 2026 Good Samaritans of the Year: Christine Barham, who volunteers with therapy dogs at Cherokee Medical Center; Garry Fisher, a cancer survivor who volunteers with Cancer Navigators and the Harbin Clinic Cancer Center; and Wanda Hilyer, a volunteer at the Polk Medical Center gift shop.
National Day Of Prayer In Chattooga County Set For May 7
The National Day of Prayer in Chattooga County will be observed on Thursday, May 7, beginning at 6:30 PM.
Pastor Gary Howell of United Christian Fellowship says the gathering will be held at the Open Air Pavilion in downtown Summerville. In the event of rain, the observance will be moved to the Chattooga County Ag Center.
The National Day of Prayer is held each year on the first Thursday in May, inviting communities across the country to gather in prayer for the nation, its leaders, families, schools, churches, and local communities.
The public is invited to attend.
Georgia Gas Prices Hold Steady As Market Uncertainty Continues
Drivers across Georgia are seeing little change at the pump this week, with the statewide average for regular gasoline holding at $3.62 per gallon.
According to AAA, Georgia’s average is up 1 cent from last week, 1 cent higher than a month ago, and 71 cents higher than this time last year. Filling a standard 15-gallon tank now costs about $54.30.
AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters said continued global tensions and supply concerns are keeping oil prices elevated, which could put more pressure on fuel costs in the days ahead.
Nationally, the average price for regular gasoline rose 5 cents to $4.09 per gallon. Crude oil prices remain high, with West Texas Intermediate trading in the mid-$90s per barrel as international tensions continue to affect the market.
AAA also reports the national average price for electricity at public EV charging stations dropped by 1 cent this week to 40 cents per kilowatt hour.
In Georgia, the most expensive metro markets are Valdosta at $3.69, Atlanta at $3.64, and Gainesville at $3.60. The least expensive are Albany at $3.50, Hinesville-Fort Stewart at $3.48, and Dalton at $3.45.
Local averages include Chattooga, Walker, and Floyd counties at $3.57, Gordon County at $3.59, DeKalb County, Alabama at $3.75, and Cherokee County, Alabama at $3.64.
Chattooga County Named Primary Natural Disaster Area Due To Drought
Chattooga County has been named a primary natural disaster area due to ongoing drought conditions, as state and federal officials continue to respond to dry weather impacting Georgia cities and rural communities.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture, working with the USDA, announced that 20 additional counties — including Chattooga — have been added to the federal disaster declaration. That brings the total to 146 counties statewide now designated as primary natural disaster areas. The designation allows eligible farm operators to apply for Farm Service Agency emergency loan assistance.
At the same time, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division has issued a Level 1 drought response for the state. According to the Chattooga County Public Service Superintendent, outdoor watering for landscaping is allowed daily, but not between 10 AM and 4 PM, with watering permitted only during morning and evening hours. Officials are urging residents to conserve water as dry conditions persist.
State Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said the ongoing drought continues to create challenges for farm families, increasing costs and uncertainty during a critical time of the year. The expanded disaster declaration is intended to provide additional resources to help farmers manage those impacts.
Nearby counties including Dade and Gordon were also named as primary disaster areas, while Floyd and Walker counties were listed as contiguous counties eligible for assistance.
Arrest Report - Monday - April 27, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, April 27, 2026:
Strong Storms Possible As Unsettled Weather Moves Into Northwest Georgia
An active and potentially stormy weather pattern is setting up across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this week, bringing multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms and the possibility of severe weather.
According to forecasters, the most significant impacts are expected Tuesday through Wednesday, when a series of weather systems will move through North Georgia. These systems could trigger several waves of thunderstorms, some of which may become strong to severe.
The first round of storms could develop early Tuesday as a cold front approaches from the northwest. While this initial activity may weaken as it moves into the area, there is still a chance for gusty winds and small hail. Additional rounds of storms are possible Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, followed by another potential round Wednesday afternoon as atmospheric conditions become more unstable.
Meteorologists say all types of severe weather could be possible depending on how earlier storms evolve, including damaging wind gusts, hail, and heavy downpours. The greatest threat area includes much of North Georgia, placing Chattooga County and surrounding communities in a zone to watch closely.
Despite the increased chances for rain, forecasters caution that totals may remain relatively low overall, with many locations expected to receive around an inch of rainfall or less. This means ongoing dry and drought conditions in Northwest Georgia may see little improvement in the near term.
Temperatures will stay fairly typical for late April, with highs ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s through midweek. By the weekend, warmer air is expected to move in, pushing temperatures above normal.
Residents are encouraged to stay alert for changing weather conditions, especially during the Tuesday through Wednesday time frame, and to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings if severe storms develop.
Chattooga County Grand Jury Returns Recent Indictments
The Chattooga County Grand Jury has handed down several indictments against individuals, according to Superior Court records.
Those indicted include:
- John Howard Trammell, 19, of Church Street, Summerville — indicted for second-degree criminal damage to property.
- Joshua Dale White, 96 March Lane, Summerville — indicted for DUI, aggressive driving, driving while license suspended, driving with no proof of insurance, reckless driving, speeding, failure to maintain a single lane, and multiple other traffic offenses.
- Michael Wayne Wright — indicted in connection with traffic-related offenses.
- Horace Emmanuel Wooten, 43, of Frank Street, Summerville — indicted for aggravated assault and four counts of making terroristic threats and acts.
- Margie Lavoughn Yusko, of Margie Street, Trion — indicted for theft by taking.
- Jahtavari Keshawn Underwood, 73 Cherry Avenue, Summerville — indicted on two counts of shoplifting.
An indictment is not a conviction. It means a grand jury found enough evidence for the case to move forward in court. All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Menlo Begins Planning For July 4 Celebration
The City of Menlo is moving forward with early planning for its annual July 4 celebration, with city leaders discussing dates, activities, and logistics during a recent council work session.
Mayor Kris Willis said the city is looking to finalize a date soon so preparations can begin, including lining up vendors, entertainment, and other attractions. Officials noted that getting an early start is key to ensuring a successful event.
Council members discussed the possibility of holding the celebration on July 3, rather than July 4, to avoid scheduling conflicts with other area events and allow for better participation from the community.
Plans for the celebration are expected to include live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, with organizers aiming to draw both residents and visitors to downtown Menlo.
City leaders emphasized the importance of coordination and community involvement as planning continues in the coming weeks.
More details about the event are expected to be announced once the date and schedule are finalized.
First Farm Stand Card Program Kicks Off In Chattooga County
The Chattooga County Young Farmers Association is launching its first Farm Stand Card program during the months of May and June, giving residents a fun way to support local farmers and farm stands.
Farm Stand Cards will be available at the participating farm stands and at the Chattooga County Agriculture Center. Participants are encouraged to visit the listed farm stands, collect a stamp or signature at each stop, and turn in their card for a chance to win prizes donated by local vendors.
Cards must be turned in by June 30 at the Chattooga County Agriculture Center, located at 40 Middle School Road in Summerville.
Participating farm stands include:
- Anita’s Blissful Bites
- Broome Farms
- Daydreamer Farm
- Faith Family Farm Stand
- Farms Not Pharms
- Foster Mill Farmstand
- Lanier Farms
- Leroy’s Seasoning
- Orchard Farms
- Peaceful Journey
- Roadside Market at Teloga Springs Farm
- Thrive Farm Bake Shop
- Sunset Creek Farm LLC
- Sunset Family Farms
- Willows Flowers at Teloga Springs Farm
The program is designed to encourage residents to shop local, discover new farm stands, and support the growers and makers who help keep agriculture strong in Chattooga County.
Early Voting Begins Today For Georgia Primary Election
Early voting is now underway across Chattooga County and the state of Georgia as the General Primary election approaches.
Voters can begin casting their ballots in person starting today, with early voting continuing through mid-May. In Chattooga County, early voting is taking place at the Registrar’s Office located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville.
Election officials say voting will be available on weekdays during regular business hours, with additional Saturday voting dates scheduled to give residents more opportunities to participate.
The deadline to request an absentee ballot is set for early May, and voters are reminded that a valid photo ID is required when voting in person.
The General Primary will determine party nominees for several local, state, and federal races ahead of the November election. Voters must choose a Democratic, Republican or Non-Partisan ballot when they come to vote.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of early voting to avoid long lines on Election Day and ensure their voice is heard.
Georgia Power Promotes Income-Based Energy Discount Program
Georgia Power is encouraging eligible customers to apply for its Income-Qualified Discount program, which is designed to help lower monthly energy bills for households that meet income and program requirements.
According to Georgia Power, qualifying customers can save $33.50 each month on their energy bill. That adds up to approximately $402 in savings over the course of a year.
To qualify, a household’s income must be at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. Customers must also meet at least one additional eligibility requirement.
Those requirements include being 65 years of age or older, receiving Social Security Disability Insurance, receiving Supplemental Security Income, or participating in the federal Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as Section 8.
In addition to the monthly bill discount, the program offers other benefits for qualifying customers. Georgia Power says participants will not be charged reconnect fees or transfer fees, which could provide extra relief for households facing financial strain.
The program is aimed at making energy service more affordable and accessible, especially for seniors, people with disabilities, and lower-income households across the state.
Customers interested in the discount can apply online by visiting georgiapower.com/energydiscount or by scanning the QR code on Georgia Power program materials.
Wildflower Hike Planned At Sloppy Floyd State Park
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park will host a Wildflower Hike on Saturday, May 2, giving participants a chance to explore local trails while learning about native plants.
The guided hike will begin at 10 a.m., with park rangers leading visitors along the Lower Lake Trail. Participants will learn about Georgia’s native wildflowers and which species are most important to pollinators.
Attendees are asked to meet at the park office by 10 a.m. and should bring plenty of water and wear comfortable walking shoes.
The cost is $3 per person, and a $10 park pass is required. Registration is also required in advance.
For more information or to register, call the park at 706-857-0826.