Arrest Report - Wednesday - June 24, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, June 24, 2026:
Warmer Temperatures Return; Storm Chances Increase by Friday
A stretch of pleasant summer weather will continue across Chattooga County through the remainder of the week before temperatures begin climbing into the 90s this weekend and early next week.
After a clear and comfortable night with lows around 61 degrees, Wednesday will feature mostly sunny skies and a high near 85. Similar conditions are expected Thursday, with abundant sunshine and afternoon temperatures reaching the upper 80s.
The forecast turns hotter heading into the weekend as highs climb to around 90 on Friday and into the lower 90s Saturday. Isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms will be possible beginning Friday, with rain chances remaining relatively low at 20 to 30 percent.
By Sunday and Monday, summer heat will make a strong return to Northwest Georgia. High temperatures are expected to reach the mid-90s Sunday and could approach 97 degrees Monday. While only isolated thunderstorms are forecast, residents spending time outdoors should take precautions against the heat and stay hydrated.
The extended forecast calls for sunny skies and continued hot conditions through at least Tuesday, with highs remaining in the mid to upper 90s.
Woman Turns Over Stolen iPad Recovered By Summerville Police
A stolen Apple iPad reported missing in Tennessee was recovered by the Summerville Police Department after tracking information led officers to a residence on Scoggins Street.
According to a report filed by the Summerville Police Department, officers responded on June 14 after Sarah Trimble of Gadsden, Alabama, reported that her Apple iPad Pro 5 had been stolen from her vehicle while she was in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Trimble told police she was able to track the device using a location service, which indicated the iPad was located at a residence in the 100 block of Scoggins Street in Summerville. She provided officers with identifying information, including the serial number, to confirm the device.
Officer J. Pledger responded to the residence and spoke with occupants there. According to the report, one of the residents, identified as Cassie Marie Patterson, 22, of Summerville, voluntarily surrendered an iPad matching the description of the stolen device.
Police verified the serial number and confirmed the tablet belonged to the victim.
Patterson told officers she had purchased the iPad from an unknown individual at a Chattanooga gas station around 2 a.m. on June 14 for $50, according to the report.
The recovered device, valued at approximately $530, was turned over to law enforcement and later returned to its owner.
Patterson was charged by the Summerville Police Department with Theft By Receiving Property Stolen In Another State.
A supplemental report indicates that the victim later advised police she did not wish to pursue further legal action because of concerns about creating hardship for Patterson’s children. The victim requested only that her property be returned and declined prosecution. Police subsequently cleared and closed the case.
Chattooga County EMA Hosting Community Blood Drive July 13
Residents will have an opportunity to help save lives and support local patients during an upcoming blood drive hosted by the Chattooga County Emergency Management Agency.
The blood drive, conducted in partnership with Blood Assurance, will take place on Monday, July 13, from 12:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Chattooga County EMA Office, located at 170 Farrar Drive in Summerville.
Blood Assurance is encouraging eligible donors to participate in the community event as blood supplies remain critical throughout the summer months. Organizers emphasize that every donation can help local hospitals and patients in need across the region.
As an added incentive, donors who give blood during July will receive a $25 Blood Assurance gift card, which will be emailed following their donation.
Blood Assurance recommends donors:
- Eat a good meal before donating
- Bring a valid photo ID
- Avoid energy drinks before the donation
- Drink extra water to stay hydrated
Appointments can be scheduled by scanning the QR code on the event flyer.
Organizers say the drive is an opportunity for local residents to make a direct impact in their community by helping ensure a safe and reliable blood supply for area hospitals.
“Give Local, Save Local” remains the message of the campaign as Blood Assurance and Chattooga County EMA work together to encourage lifesaving donations.
Scouts And Veterans Retire Hundreds Of American Flags In Chattooga County
Veterans and local scouts came together in Chattooga County to honor the American flag with dignity and respect during a flag retirement ceremony at VFW Post 6688 on Memorial Drive.
The ceremony was held in recognition of Flag Day, which commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States. VFW Post 6688 partnered with Chattooga County Scouts Troop 7 and Pack 38 of Scouting America’s Northwest Georgia Council for the solemn event.
With the help of scouts and veterans, around 500 worn or damaged American flags were properly retired. The flags ranged from small hand-held sizes to large flying colors and had been collected over the past year through drop boxes or given to veterans and scouts.
Scout leaders said the ceremony helps teach young people about duty to God and country, service to others, and respect for the nation’s symbols.
Eagle Scout Alex D. said his favorite part was spending time with veterans.
“My favorite part is probably getting to talk to the veterans and be around and hear their stories and their experiences and see what it means to them,” he said.
“Retiring the flags means a lot to us because veterans served our country and we serve them,” Nicole H. said.
Organizers said the ceremony was also a reminder that American flags should be retired in a dignified way when they are no longer fit for display.
Residents with worn or damaged American flags may place them in local drop boxes at Dowdy Park or Veterans Memorial Park in Trion.
Scouting is a year-round program for youth from kindergarten through age 18, offering hands-on activities that promote character, leadership, confidence, respect, and personal achievement. More information about local scouting programs is available at beascout.org.
Alabama Teen Charged In Highway 48 Drive-By Shooting Investigation
A 17-year-old Alabama resident has been arrested and charged in connection with a drive-by shooting that occurred earlier this month near the Georgia-Alabama state line on Highway 48.
According to Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader, Ricky Paul Hawkins, 17, was arrested on June 11 and charged with drive-by shooting, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.
Investigators said the incident began at RJ’s Mountain Top Store when Hawkins and others traveling with him allegedly approached another customer and asked him to purchase alcohol for them.
Sheriff Schrader said the customer refused the request, leading to a verbal exchange between the parties.
Authorities allege that as the customer was leaving, the suspects drove past his vehicle and a shot was fired, striking the front driver’s side fender area of the victim’s pickup truck.
The victim reportedly saw a muzzle flash but did not immediately realize his vehicle had been struck by a bullet. After arriving home, he discovered a bullet hole in the truck’s quarter panel.
Sheriff Schrader noted that the trajectory of the shot could have resulted in far more serious consequences.
“It was at an angle that if it would have been about 12 to 14 inches higher, it could have easily struck the victim sitting in the driver’s seat,” Schrader said.
Investigators reviewed surveillance footage from the convenience store that reportedly captured interactions between the suspect and the victim prior to the shooting.
The investigation remains ongoing, and Sheriff Schrader said additional charges could be filed against other individuals who were riding in the vehicle with Hawkins at the time of the shooting.
The case also highlights a difference between Georgia and Alabama juvenile justice laws. Schrader noted that while Hawkins is considered a juvenile under Alabama law, he will face adult charges in Georgia.
“This is odd. He is considered a juvenile in Alabama, but an adult here,” Schrader said.
Schrader further stated that Hawkins was reportedly charged in Valley Head, Alabama, a few days after the Highway 48 incident in connection with alleged drug and weapons offenses.
Hawkins remains charged in Chattooga County as investigators continue to review evidence and determine whether additional charges should be brought against others involved in the incident.
Summerville Adopts $29.33 Million Budget With No Tax or Utility Rate Increases
The City of Summerville has approved a balanced budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year that includes no increases to property taxes or utility base rates.
The Summerville City Council unanimously adopted the $29.33 million budget Monday evening for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027.
City Manager Jason Winters told council members the spending plan maintains current service levels while avoiding additional costs for residents.
“There are no proposed rate increases for any of our utility customers and no proposed property taxes,” Winters said during the budget presentation.
Mayor Rickey Hughes emphasized that the budget continues the city’s commitment to maintaining senior citizen discounts while avoiding tax and utility increases.
Highlights of the budget include:
• No increases to water, sewer, or gas base rates
• No city property tax levy
• Senior citizen utility discounts remain in place
• The city workforce includes 84 full-time and 17 part-time employees
• Outstanding debt stands at approximately $6.225 million
• Annual debt service totals roughly $805,000
Winters described the budget as fiscally cautious while still allowing for targeted investments in infrastructure, staffing, and equipment.
The city expects growth in several revenue sources, including franchise taxes, insurance premium taxes, gas authority rebates, sanitation fees, court fines, and Main Street revenues driven by continued downtown events and concerts.
The capital improvement plan relies heavily on grants, ARPA funding, and local sales tax revenues rather than new debt or rate increases. Officials also noted that a new SPLOST cycle is beginning, with the city expecting approximately $950,000 in 2026 for recreation-related projects, including playground improvements and splash pad parking enhancements.
City leaders said the budget balances financial responsibility with continued investment in city services and community amenities.
Chattooga County Transfer Station To Begin Sunday Hours
Chattooga County residents will soon have an additional opportunity each week to dispose of household garbage as county officials expand operating hours at the county’s main transfer station.
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen announced that the transfer station on Stockade Road will begin opening on Sundays, providing residents with a weekend option for household waste disposal.
Under the new schedule, the county’s main transfer station will operate from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Sundays.
Allen said the change is intended to help residents who have difficulty visiting the facility during normal weekday hours.
“This will let people get rid of some of their household garbage on the weekends,” Allen said.
The expanded hours will apply only to the county’s main transfer station on Stockade Road. Other garbage collection sites located throughout Chattooga County will remain closed on Sundays.
According to Allen, opening every collection site on Sundays would significantly increase personnel and operating costs. County leaders instead chose to focus on adding hours at the main transfer station while keeping expenses manageable.
Allen said he has wanted to open the main site on Sundays for some time and believes the added hours will provide greater convenience for residents whose work schedules and other commitments make weekday visits difficult.
County officials hope the expanded access will help residents keep up with household waste disposal needs without requiring costly expansions at collection sites across the county.
Cherokee County Gears Up for Packed Independence Day Weekend Celebration
The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce is inviting residents and visitors alike to celebrate Independence Day with four days of fireworks, family fun, live entertainment, and patriotic festivities across the county.
This year’s celebrations carry special significance as communities across the nation commemorate America’s 250th Birthday. Events are scheduled from July 2 through July 5, offering something for everyone.
The festivities begin July 2 with Freedom Fest at Indian Mountain ATV Park in Piedmont. The multi-day celebration continues through July 5 and features fireworks, racing, fishing competitions, night rides, waterslides, camping, vendors, and a variety of family-friendly activities.
On July 3, several fireworks celebrations are planned throughout the county. The 411 Drive-In Theatre in Centre will host an evening of patriotic music and family fun, capped off by a fireworks display during intermission. Bay Springs Marina will celebrate with a fireworks show over Weiss Lake beginning at 8:45 p.m., while Little River Marina in Cedar Bluff will offer a day of waterslides, music, lakeside activities, and fireworks after dark.
The celebration continues on July 4 with Liberty Day at Cedar Bluff Town Park. Activities begin at 9 a.m. and include a car show, vendors, live music, inflatables, a petting zoo, family entertainment, and a fireworks display over Weiss Lake to conclude the evening.
The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce encourages everyone to gather family and friends and enjoy the holiday weekend while celebrating America’s 250th Birthday throughout Cherokee County.
For more information about individual events, contact the event organizers or the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - June 23, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Department for Tuesday, June 23, 2026:
Cooler, Drier Air Moves Into Northwest Georgia
A gloomy start across Northwest Georgia will give way to a much more comfortable weather pattern today as a front slowly pushes through the region.
Low clouds and a few isolated showers are possible early, but forecasters say drier air will move in behind the front by mid to late morning. Skies are expected to clear through the day, with rain chances dropping to near zero for both today and Wednesday.
The biggest change will be the feel of the air. Breezy northwest winds, lower humidity and cooler temperatures will make today feel noticeably different from the recent stretch of muggy summer weather. Highs across North Georgia are expected to reach only the lower 80s, with overnight lows falling into the upper 50s and lower 60s.
Mostly sunny skies and light winds are expected Wednesday, with highs returning to the mid and upper 80s.
By Thursday and Friday, afternoon showers and storms may return, though no strong signal for severe weather is expected at this time. Heat and humidity will build again heading into the weekend, with highs reaching the upper 80s and lower 90s.
Chattooga Farm Stand Program Entering Final Days Before Deadline
Time is running out for residents to participate in the Chattooga County Young Farmers Farm Stand Card Program, with the deadline to complete and submit cards set for June 30.
The annual program encourages residents to visit local farm stands throughout Chattooga County while supporting area farmers and agricultural businesses. Participants collect a stamp or signature at each participating location and become eligible for prizes once they have visited at least 10 farm stands.
Completed cards can be dropped off at the Chattooga Ag Center, located at 40 Middle School Road in Summerville, no later than June 30.
All submitted cards will be entered into a prize drawing featuring items donated by local farm stand owners.
Participating locations 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, Sunset Family Farms and Willows Flowers.
Organizers say the program is designed to promote local agriculture, encourage residents to explore the county’s farm stands and support small businesses throughout the growing season.
Residents interested in participating are encouraged to visit the remaining farm stands and complete their cards before the June 30 deadline.
Friends Of Chattooga County Animal Shelter Urges Pet Owners To Spay And Neuter After More Than 100 Puppies Born From Two Dogs
Friends of Chattooga County Animal Shelter is using the story of two mama dogs to remind pet owners about the importance of spaying and neutering.
According to the organization, 14 puppies recently came into the shelter after being born to two female dogs that had spent years having repeated litters. One of the dogs had reportedly had at least eight litters in five years, while the other had at least three litters in three years.
Even using an estimate of eight puppies per litter, the organization says the two dogs were responsible for at least 88 puppies, though the actual number is believed to be more than 100.
Shelter advocates say those numbers show how quickly the pet overpopulation crisis can grow. Each litter means more puppies needing food, shelter, veterinary care and permanent homes, adding pressure to shelters and rescue groups that are already overcrowded.
There was a positive ending for the 14 most recent puppies. Friends of Chattooga County Animal Shelter said the puppies were transferred to a rescue partner and taken to Delaware, where all 14 were adopted over the weekend.
The organization thanked Jess with Best Friends for helping make the transfer possible, along with an anonymous local sponsor who paid to have both mama dogs spayed. Shelter supporters say that donation means the cycle of repeated pregnancies and litters has now ended for those two dogs.
Friends of Chattooga County Animal Shelter also thanked Lori Yonts with Sun Kissed Acres for transporting the mama dogs and Luci Jennings for bringing them home.
The group says the message is not about judgment, but about preventing suffering before it starts. They are encouraging pet owners to spay and neuter their animals, saying one surgery can prevent hundreds of animals from entering an already overwhelmed shelter system.
Holly Chaney Speaks To Chattooga County Democrats About Jobs, Healthcare And Community Growth
Candidate Holly Chaney recently spoke at a meeting of the Chattooga County Democratic Party, where she answered questions from members and outlined her objectives as a representative for Georgia House District 12.
Chaney said economic pressure on local families is one of the major concerns she hears from residents. She told those attending the meeting that people should come before profit, saying that when families are not thriving, businesses, communities and children are not thriving either.
When asked about the biggest issues facing the area, Chaney pointed to the need for better-paying jobs in Northwest Georgia. She said many residents feel limited by a lack of economic opportunity and said workforce training programs could help people gain skills for higher-paying careers.
Chaney also said attracting new employers is important, but added that those jobs must provide wages that allow families to live and thrive.
She also addressed the need for commercial investment and revitalization in local business districts, saying some areas that should have active storefronts and local businesses instead have vacant buildings or properties being used mainly for storage.
Healthcare was another topic discussed during the meeting. Chaney said changes in healthcare policy may give states a larger role in finding solutions that better serve residents.
Chaney said building community remains central to her campaign, adding that she sees a need for someone willing to bring people together, listen to concerns and help strengthen communities.
Georgia Gas Prices Fall Ahead of Busy Independence Day Travel Period
Georgia drivers are getting some welcome relief at the pump just as one of the busiest travel periods of the year approaches.
According to AAA, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Georgia is now $3.64 per gallon, down 11 cents from a week ago and 38 cents lower than a month ago. However, prices remain about 70 cents higher than this time last year. A typical 15-gallon fill-up now costs Georgia drivers approximately $54.75.
“Georgia drivers are seeing some welcome relief at the pump just as one of the busiest travel periods of the year gets underway,” said Garrett Townsend, Public Affairs Director for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “The recent decline in gas prices is helping ease travel costs for families planning summer road trips. While current prices are encouraging for holiday travelers, motorists should continue to monitor local prices and plan ahead to maximize their fuel savings.”
AAA reports that the national average for regular gasoline has dropped below the $4-per-gallon mark for the first time since late March, falling to $3.93 per gallon, a decrease of 14 cents over the past week.
Locally, Northwest Georgia motorists are also seeing lower prices. AAA’s most recent county averages show:
- Chattooga County: $3.79 per gallon
- Floyd County: $3.74 per gallon
- Walker County: $3.72 per gallon
- Gordon County: $3.74 per gallon
- DeKalb County, Alabama: $3.93 per gallon
- Cherokee County, Alabama: $3.88 per gallon
Among Georgia’s metro markets, the most expensive areas for gasoline are Macon ($3.75), Savannah ($3.74), and Athens ($3.68). The least expensive markets are Dalton ($3.41), Albany ($3.45), and Brunswick ($3.48).
With record numbers of travelers expected to hit the road for the Independence Day holiday, AAA encourages drivers to compare prices before filling up, plan routes in advance, and take advantage of fuel-saving tools such as the AAA TripTik Travel Planner and Fuel Price Finder.
Two GNTC Students Place at National FBLA Competition
Two Georgia Northwestern Technical College students earned finalist honors at the 2026 Future Business Leaders of America Collegiate National Leadership Conference, held June 6th through 8th in Las Vegas.
Eight GNTC students competed in 11 events at the national competition. Jared Weaver, who studies Architectural and Engineering Drawing Technology at GNTC’s Whitfield Murray Campus, placed third in Customer Service. Ashley Weaver, who graduated last month with an associate degree in Accounting, placed ninth in Foundations of Entrepreneurship.
The Weavers are married and live in Chatsworth with their daughter, Emily Standridge, who also competed at the national conference.
GNTC’s FBLA coordinator and Marketing Management Program Director Mark Upton said he was proud of the students and instructors who helped prepare them, adding that the students competed strongly and represented the college well.
Other GNTC competitors included students from the Floyd County and Whitfield Murray campuses, representing programs such as Radiologic Technology, Healthcare Billing, Business Management, Business Healthcare Technology, Healthcare Management and Accounting.
GNTC’s Community Service Project team also advanced to the finals. Trish Wiggins, director of Student Engagement at GNTC, said the students’ level of involvement was exceptional and that each one will continue representing GNTC beyond campus and into the workforce.
Future Business Leaders of America helps students prepare for careers in business and business-related fields and serves more than 230,000 students nationwide.
Donald Abernathy Receives Sunflower Award for Outstanding Service and Compassion
AdventHealth Redmond has recognized Donald Abernathy as the recipient of the Sunflower Award for the first quarter of 2026.
The award honors non-nursing team members who demonstrate extraordinary service, compassion, and dedication to patients, visitors, and fellow team members. The Sunflower Award complements the DAISY Award for nurses and recognizes employees who bring light, warmth, and hope to those they serve.
Abernathy serves as a concierge at AdventHealth Redmond’s outpatient entrance in Rome and was nominated by both a patient and fellow team members for his kindness and commitment to helping others.
One patient said Abernathy went above and beyond during a pre-operative appointment after she realized she had left her medications in a vehicle parked far from the hospital entrance. Instead of allowing the patient to make the painful walk back to her car, Abernathy volunteered to retrieve the medications for her.
The patient said Abernathy may not have known she suffers from severe back problems, but his act of kindness was a tremendous help and blessing.
Co-workers also praised Abernathy for his servant-hearted attitude and willingness to assist patients and visitors. As one of the first people many encounter when arriving at the hospital, Abernathy is known for greeting visitors with a smile and helping them feel welcomed and cared for.
Teresa Miller, Consumer Access Manager, said Abernathy consistently demonstrates the compassion, kindness, and dedication that define AdventHealth’s mission, adding that one phrase often heard from him is, “I’ll take care of it.”
As the Sunflower Award recipient, Abernathy received a commemorative certificate, Sunflower Award pin, keepsake trophy, flowers, and recognition from hospital leaders and colleagues.
Lafayette Man Cited for Public Intoxication in Summerville
A Lafayette man was cited for public intoxication following an incident on Hawkins Drive in Summerville on June 19, according to a report from the Summerville Police Department.
The citation identifies the defendant as William Craig Ramsey, 53, of Lafayette. Officers responded to an incident at approximately 2:30 a.m. on Hawkins Drive. According to the officer’s narrative, Ramsey was involved in a verbal domestic dispute that resulted in a 911 call.
Upon making contact with Ramsey, the responding officer reported smelling a strong odor of alcoholic beverages and marijuana. The report states that Ramsey admitted to consuming alcohol and smoking marijuana.
Police said Ramsey was walking on a city street and that his level of intoxication placed both himself and the public in jeopardy. He was subsequently cited for Public Intoxication under a Summerville city ordinance.
Ramsey is scheduled to appear in Summerville Municipal Court on August 11.
Georgia Lawmakers Focus on Election Changes, Tax Relief During Special Session
Georgia lawmakers returned to the State Capitol last week for a special legislative session called by Governor Brian Kemp to address election law implementation, local homestead tax exemptions, and ratification of a temporary suspension of state motor fuel taxes.
According to State Representative Eddie Lumsden, who represents Chattooga County and a portion of Floyd County, legislators opted not to take up congressional and state legislative redistricting during the special session, despite redistricting being included in the governor’s original proclamation.
One of the first measures approved by lawmakers was House Resolution 3EX, which ratifies Governor Kemp’s executive order extending the temporary suspension of Georgia’s motor fuel and diesel fuel taxes. The extension continued tax relief for motorists through the Memorial Day travel period.
Lawmakers are also reviewing Senate Bill 3EX, which would make adjustments to Georgia election laws and address implementation deadlines established under previous legislation. The measure deals with election equipment requirements and the use of human-readable ballot text in vote tabulation.
Another major topic under consideration involves local homestead tax exemptions. Following passage of legislation earlier this year authorizing a Local Homestead Option Sales Tax, lawmakers are considering local bills that would allow communities to place homestead exemption measures before voters during the November 2026 General Election.
The General Assembly resumed work Monday as legislators continue debating the measures included in the governor’s special session agenda.
You can read Representative Lumsden’s complete legislative report below.
Walker County FY2027 Budget To Be Presented June 26
Walker County’s proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget is scheduled to be submitted later this week during a special called meeting of the Walker County Board of Commissioners.
The proposed budget will be presented at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, June 26, at Walker County Courthouse Annex I, located at 101 South Duke Street in LaFayette.
After the budget is submitted, it will be available for public review at the county administration building, also located at 101 South Duke Street, and online at walkercountyga.gov in the Government section.
Two public hearings have been scheduled to allow residents to review and comment on the proposed budget. The first hearing will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, and the second will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 6. Both hearings will take place at Walker County Courthouse Annex IV, located at 201 South Duke Street in LaFayette.