Arrest Report - Friday - June 12, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, June 12, 2026:
Heat And Storm Chances Increase Across Chattooga County This Weekend
A taste of summer’s full force is arriving in Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia as temperatures climb into the 90s and humidity pushes heat index values close to — and in some locations above — 100 degrees through the weekend.
Friday will bring hot and muggy conditions with afternoon temperatures reaching the lower 90s. Combined with dew points in the low 70s, it will feel significantly hotter, with heat index values expected to reach the upper 90s and low 100s. Anyone spending extended time outdoors is encouraged to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks, and limit strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.
Forecasters are also monitoring the potential for a few strong thunderstorms across far north Georgia Friday afternoon and evening. While widespread severe weather is not expected, Chattooga County and surrounding areas are included in a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe storms. The strongest storms could produce gusty winds, heavy rainfall, and frequent lightning.
An isolated flash flooding threat also exists where thunderstorms develop. Slow-moving storms could drop heavy rainfall in a short period of time, leading to localized flooding of low-lying areas and poor-drainage locations.
The heat is expected to continue Saturday, with temperatures again reaching the 90s. Heat index values could exceed 100 degrees in parts of Northwest Georgia, making outdoor precautions important for anyone attending sporting events, festivals, yard sales, or other weekend activities.
Looking ahead, a more active weather pattern is expected to develop late Sunday and continue into next week. Rain and thunderstorm chances will increase significantly as a weather system moves into the region. Several rounds of showers and thunderstorms could bring multiple inches of rainfall to North Georgia between Sunday night and Tuesday.
While the additional cloud cover and rainfall should bring some relief from the heat, forecasters are increasingly concerned about the potential for heavy rain and localized flooding as the wetter pattern settles over the area.
Residents are encouraged to monitor forecasts through the weekend as conditions evolve and additional advisories may be issued.
New Pinhoti Trail Reroute Opens Near Mack White Gap
A new 2.6-mile reroute is now blazed and open on Section 21 of the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail northeast of Mack White Gap at U.S. Highway 27.
The reroute moves hikers off Forest Service Road 254 for about the same distance, creating a more scenic and enjoyable section of trail. Old blazes along FS 254 have been removed or painted over, and the new route is marked for hikers traveling both northbound and southbound.
GPS data has been submitted for the FarOut app and is expected to be updated in the Pinhoti database soon.
Project organizers say the reroute is an incremental improvement on the 370-mile wilderness trail, but represents a significant aesthetic upgrade for hikers.
The project was made possible through support from the Tillotson-Menlo Foundation, The Conservation Fund, the U.S. Forest Service Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Conasauga Ranger District, and several trail and environmental partners.
Flourish Foster Care Hosting Yard Sale For A Cause In Summerville
Residents looking for bargains while supporting a worthy cause will have an opportunity this weekend as Flourish Foster Care Closet & Support, Inc. hosts a Yard Sale for a Cause at The Well in downtown Summerville.
The fundraiser will take place on Friday, June 12, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. and Saturday, June 13, from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. at The Well, located at 141 W. Washington Street in Summerville.
Organizers say all proceeds will benefit The Well and the foster, kinship, and adoptive families served throughout Northwest Georgia. Shoppers will find a wide variety of items including furniture, home décor, clothing, toys, household items, books, seasonal merchandise, and more.
A BBQ food truck will also be on-site with plates, sandwiches, and other menu items available for purchase. A portion of food sales will benefit The Well and its mission.
According to organizers, every purchase helps Flourish continue providing clothing, essential items, support programs, meals, and community resources for children and families impacted by foster care.
Donations are still being accepted during the work week leading up to the event.
Chattooga County Schools Seeking Bus Drivers, Paraprofessionals and Custodian
The Chattooga County Board of Education is currently accepting applications for several positions ahead of the upcoming 2026-27 school year.
Open positions include full-time and substitute bus drivers, paraprofessionals at multiple schools, and a part-time custodian position at Lyerly Elementary School.
The school system is seeking full-time bus drivers for 152-day positions with benefits, as well as on-call substitute drivers. Pay is based on experience, with hourly rates ranging up to $23.42 per hour for full-time drivers and $15 per hour for substitute drivers. Applicants must possess a valid CDL with school bus endorsements or be willing to complete paid training after obtaining a CDL.
Several paraprofessional positions are also available for the upcoming school year. Vacancies include assignments at Leroy Massey Elementary School, Lyerly Elementary School, Summerville Middle School, and Chattooga High School. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and meet Georgia paraprofessional certification requirements.
In addition, the school system is hiring a part-time custodian for Lyerly Elementary School. The position is a 208-day assignment working 4.5 hours per day, Tuesday through Friday.
Applications may be obtained through the Chattooga County School System’s Human Resources Department or online through the district website. Applications should be submitted to Human Resources Director Dawn Campbell at the Chattooga County Board of Education.
School officials encourage qualified individuals interested in working with students and supporting local schools to apply.
Heat Safety Important for Pets and Livestock Across Northwest Georgia
With temperatures climbing into the 90s and heat index values approaching 100 degrees across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, animal owners are being reminded to take extra precautions to protect pets and livestock from dangerous heat-related illnesses.
Veterinarians and agricultural experts say animals can suffer from heat stress, dehydration, and even heat stroke when exposed to prolonged periods of high temperatures and humidity.
Pet owners should ensure dogs and cats have constant access to fresh, cool water and shaded areas throughout the day. Walks and outdoor exercise should be limited to the cooler morning and evening hours, and animals should never be left unattended in vehicles, where temperatures can rise to deadly levels within minutes.
Hot pavement can also burn sensitive paw pads. A simple rule is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for several seconds. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your pet’s paws.
Livestock owners should monitor cattle, horses, goats, and other farm animals closely during periods of extreme heat. Providing ample shade, clean water, and adequate ventilation can help reduce heat stress. Producers may also consider adjusting feeding schedules to cooler parts of the day to minimize heat-related strain on animals.
Signs of heat stress in animals can include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, lethargy, rapid breathing, loss of coordination, and collapse. Any animal showing signs of severe heat stress should receive immediate attention.
Forecasters expect hot and humid conditions to continue through the weekend before a wetter pattern develops next week, bringing increased chances for showers and thunderstorms across the region.
Bluegrass on the Rim Returns to Little River Canyon Saturday
One of Northeast Alabama’s most popular summer traditions returns this weekend as Bluegrass on the Rim celebrates its 13th year at the Little River Canyon Center.
The event will take place Saturday, June 13, in the scenic setting overlooking Little River Canyon and will feature performances by Three On A String and Foggy Hollow Bluegrass.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, coolers, family and friends for an evening of music under the stars. J-Bird’s BBQ will be on site with food available for purchase, leashed pets are welcome, and children ages 10 and under will be admitted free.
Gates open at 5 p.m., with music beginning at 6 p.m.
Organizers say the event combines great bluegrass music, beautiful scenery and family-friendly entertainment, making it a favorite annual gathering for residents and visitors alike.
Additional information and tickets are available through the Little River Canyon Center.
Prescribed Burns Helping Native Plants Thrive Across Georgia WMAs
Wildlife Resources Division biologists with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources are seeing positive results from prescribed fire management efforts across several Wildlife Management Areas in the state.
Following a recent prescribed burn, Georgia DNR game management biologists conducted post-burn monitoring to evaluate whether management goals had been achieved. During the assessment, they documented several native herbaceous plant species benefiting from the burn.
Among the species observed were woodland pinkroot and tall green milkweed at Berry College Wildlife Management Area, redring milkweed at Paulding Forest Wildlife Management Area, and fire pink at John’s Mountain Wildlife Management Area.
According to DNR officials, prescribed fire is a critical wildlife management tool that helps maintain healthy habitats, reduce excessive vegetation buildup, and encourage the growth of diverse native plant communities that support Georgia’s wildlife.
Wildlife experts say many native plants and ecosystems have evolved alongside periodic fire and often respond with renewed growth and increased biodiversity following properly managed burns.
Additional information about prescribed fire and its benefits is available through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division.
Home Cooling Tips as Summer Heat Builds Across Northwest Georgia
With temperatures expected to reach the lower and middle 90s and heat index values approaching 100 degrees, residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia may be looking for ways to stay comfortable while keeping energy costs under control.
Experts recommend setting thermostats as high as comfortably possible when at home and raising the temperature a few degrees when away. Ceiling fans can help rooms feel cooler, but they cool people rather than the air itself, so they should be turned off when rooms are unoccupied.
Keeping blinds, curtains, and shades closed during the hottest part of the day can significantly reduce indoor temperatures by blocking direct sunlight. South- and west-facing windows often allow the most heat into homes during the afternoon.
Homeowners are also encouraged to check and replace HVAC air filters regularly. Dirty filters can restrict airflow and force cooling systems to work harder, increasing both energy usage and wear on equipment.
Avoid using ovens, clothes dryers, and other heat-producing appliances during the hottest hours of the day when possible. Grilling outdoors or preparing meals in the morning or evening can help keep indoor temperatures lower.
Residents should also inspect weather stripping around doors and windows to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering. Even small gaps can reduce a home’s energy efficiency during extended hot weather.
For those without reliable air conditioning, local officials recommend spending time in air-conditioned public buildings such as libraries, community centers, or shopping areas during periods of extreme heat.
Forecasters expect hot and humid conditions to continue through the weekend before a wetter weather pattern develops next week.
Chattooga County Housing Market Shows Steady Activity in May
The housing market in Chattooga County continued to show steady activity during May 2026 as the spring home-buying season remained in full swing across Northwest Georgia.
Recent real estate data indicates home values in Chattooga County have remained relatively stable over the past year. Zillow estimates the average home value in the county at approximately $178,000, representing a modest increase from a year ago. Inventory also showed signs of improvement, giving buyers more options than were available during the tight housing market conditions of recent years.
According to Realtor.com market data for May, the median listing price in Chattooga County was approximately $209,900, while homes spent an average of 56 days on the market. Active listings remained above 170 properties countywide.
Communities such as Summerville, Trion, Menlo, and Lyerly continue to attract buyers looking for more affordable housing compared to larger metropolitan areas in Georgia. Recent home sales ranged from modest starter homes to larger rural properties, reflecting continued demand across multiple price ranges.
Nationally, existing home sales increased during May, marking the strongest monthly gain of the year as buyers responded to improved inventory and slightly better affordability conditions. Real estate experts say mortgage rates remain one of the biggest factors influencing buyer activity heading into the summer months.
Local real estate professionals say the Chattooga County market remains healthy, with affordability continuing to be one of the county’s strongest advantages compared to many other areas of Georgia.
Summerville Recognizes Municipal Court Clerks Week
The City of Summerville is recognizing Georgia Municipal Court Clerks Week and honoring the court professionals who help keep the city’s municipal court operating efficiently.
City officials extended appreciation to Chief Municipal Court Clerk Paula Womack and Deputy Court Clerk Stephanie Lathem for their service, professionalism and commitment to the community.
The city said their work includes assisting citizens, coordinating court proceedings, maintaining records and supporting daily court operations.
Officials said Womack and Lathem play an important role in helping ensure the fairness and effectiveness of City Court.
Tools Reported Stolen From Vehicle in Summerville Theft Case
The Summerville Police Department is investigating a theft involving tools that were reportedly taken from a vehicle in the Summerville Gardens area.
According to the incident report, the theft occurred at a residence on Summerville Gardens Drive. Police documented offenses of theft by taking and entering an automobile with the intent to commit theft.
The victim reported that several tools were missing, including three crescent wrenches, an Allen wrench set, four screwdrivers, two channel locks, and a crimp tool. The report also noted the theft of approximately $100 worth of brass and copper. The total estimated value of the stolen property was about $300.
According to the officer’s narrative, the victim indicated some of the items may have been stolen from the Walmart parking lot. The case was forwarded for further investigation, and the victim was advised to file a report with the appropriate agency if the incident occurred at Walmart.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Summerville Seeking Competitors for Hot Dog Eating Contest at Independence Festival
Think you have what it takes to be the top hot dog eater in Chattooga County?
The City of Summerville is looking for contestants to take part in a Hot Dog Eating Contest during the 2026 Celebrate Independence Festival and Fireworks celebration.
The contest will be held Thursday, July 2, at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center as part of Summerville’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
Organizers are encouraging residents who enjoy friendly competition and community fun to sign up and test their eating skills in front of a crowd during the festival.
The Celebrate Independence Festival will feature activities, entertainment, and fireworks as the community comes together to commemorate the nation’s semiquincentennial — the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Additional details about contest registration and festival activities are expected to be announced by the City of Summerville.
Summerville Recreation Extends Sign-Ups for Youth Age Groups
Summerville Parks and Recreation has extended sign-ups through this Friday, June 12, to fill several remaining youth age group spots.
Openings remain for 6U, 8U and 11U participants. The department says it can still accept 10 more players in the 6U division, 5 more in 8U and 5 more in 11U.
Registration is available online at www.summervillerec.org.
Arrest Report - Thursday - June 11, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, June 11, 2026:
Heat, Storm Chances Continue Across Chattooga County Through Weekend; Wetter Pattern Expected Next Week
Hot and humid summer weather will remain in place across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia through the weekend, with isolated to scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms developing each day.
Forecasters say temperatures will climb into the low to mid-90s through Friday, with heat index values reaching the upper 90s to near 100 degrees during the afternoon hours. While conditions are expected to stay just below Heat Advisory criteria, residents should take precautions when spending extended periods outdoors.
Patchy morning fog is possible each day, especially in areas that receive rainfall during the afternoon and evening hours.
Thunderstorm coverage is expected to increase slightly on Friday as a weak cold front approaches North Georgia. While widespread severe weather is not anticipated, a few stronger storms could develop Friday afternoon, bringing gusty winds, frequent lightning, and heavy downpours.
The summer-like pattern continues Saturday, with additional scattered afternoon storms possible. High humidity and abundant moisture will support locally heavy rainfall in stronger cells.
Looking ahead, confidence is increasing that a much wetter weather pattern will develop beginning Sunday and continue through at least the middle of next week. A weakening front moving into the Southeast, combined with increased Gulf moisture, is expected to bring numerous showers and thunderstorms to Northwest Georgia.
Forecasters are monitoring the potential for heavy rainfall and localized flooding concerns from Monday through Wednesday as repeated rounds of storms move across the region. Temperatures are expected to cool slightly into the 80s by the middle of next week due to increased cloud cover and rainfall.
Residents should continue monitoring forecasts for updates, especially regarding the potential for stronger storms Friday and flooding concerns next week.
The Band Chickamauga To Headline Chattooga River Fest This Saturday In Trion
The Band Chickamauga will bring its mix of rock classics and Southern rock favorites to Trion this Saturday as part of the 5th Annual Chattooga River Fest.
The festival will be held Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the Trion Recreation Area and will run from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
Presented by the Family Crisis Center, Chattooga River Fest celebrates the Chattooga River, outdoor recreation, and community involvement with a full day of family-friendly activities.
Festival highlights include a free family-friendly kayak paddle, a free KidZone, an open mic stage, a cornhole tournament, educational demonstrations and talks, exhibitors, food vendors, kayak raffle tickets, and event merchandise at the Chattooga River Group tent.
Live music will close out the day with The Band Chickamauga performing from 4 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Organizers describe the group as more than an average cover band, with a set list spanning more than 70 years of rock music and a special focus on Southern rock.
The event will take place at the Trion Recreation Area near Park Avenue and Dalton Street. Those using GPS should enter 90 Dalton Street, Trion, Georgia 30753. From U.S. 27, drivers can take Central Avenue at the light, then Allgood Street to Park Avenue and follow signs for parking.
Admission and parking are free. Registration and fees are required for those participating in the cornhole tournament or serving as festival vendors.
Additional information is available through ChattoogaRiverGroup.org and the Chattooga River Group Facebook page.
Former Dade County Jail Administrator Arrested On Theft, Oath Charges
A former administrator at the Dade County Jail has been arrested following allegations that he used county funds for personal purchases.
According to the Dade County Sheriff’s Office, Joseph William Chambers, 52, of Flintstone, turned himself in Thursday after state investigators issued two arrest warrants. Chambers is charged with theft by conversion and violation of oath by a public officer.
The sheriff’s office said concerns were raised after questionable past purchases were discovered. Chief Deputy Tommy Bradford requested assistance from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation on May 28.
Chambers’ employment was terminated on June 1 after the sheriff’s office learned of preliminary findings from state investigators. Officials said no additional information about the ongoing investigation would be released at this time.
Once the GBI completes its investigation, the case file will be turned over to the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office, which serves Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, and Walker counties.
A sheriff’s office spokesperson said Chambers had been employed with the agency since 2008. His bond was set at $500 by a Superior Court judge.
All individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Georgia DNR Says Canada Geese Will Be Temporarily Grounded This Summer
Canada geese may be more noticeable around neighborhoods, parks, ponds, and other public spaces in Georgia over the next few weeks as the birds go through their summer molting season.
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division, Canada geese typically replace their flight feathers from late June into early July. During that time, the birds are temporarily unable to fly.
Wildlife officials say the flightless period only lasts a few weeks, and property owners are encouraged to be patient until the geese regain their ability to fly and move on.
For communities across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, that could mean more geese staying close to ponds, lawns, and shoreline areas through part of the summer.
DNR officials say harassment methods, such as noise makers, reflective tape, or trained herding dogs, may be useful during other times of the year, but may not work while geese are molting and unable to leave the area.
After molting season, property owners dealing with continued goose problems can try repellents, physical barriers, or contact the Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division for information about special permits.
Officials remind the public that Canada geese are protected under state and federal law. It is illegal to hunt, kill, sell, purchase, or possess Canada geese except under Georgia’s migratory bird regulations.
Rome Shrine Club Members Raise Concerns After Downtown Concert Incident
Members of the Rome Shrine Club attended Monday’s Rome City Commission meeting after an incident during Saturday’s First Friday concert in Downtown Rome, where a Shriner was asked by police to stop collecting donations.
Tim Minter said he was at the concert with a donation bucket when officers approached him and told him he could not continue. Minter emphasized that the officers were professional and respectful, and said he did not fault them personally.
Minter told commissioners he was not blocking sidewalks, using a megaphone, harassing anyone, or aggressively soliciting. He said he was simply standing at the event, wearing his Shriner attire and holding the bucket, when he was told to stop.
According to Minter, he was advised the complaint came from the Rome Downtown Development Authority. The DDA later stated on social media that solicitation is not permitted without prior authorization under existing city ordinances and event policies.
Section 11-311 of the City of Rome Code of Ordinances prohibits solicitation on city streets without proper authorization and permitting.
Minter said his purpose in addressing the commission was not to create conflict, but to encourage clearer policies, better training, and a better understanding of the constitutional rights of citizens involved in charitable activities.
Rome Mayor Jim Bojo invited Minter to stay after the meeting to speak with him and Kelley Toles, Director of Strategic Initiatives, saying they could work together to find a way for the Shrine Club to continue its efforts downtown.
The mayor’s comments drew applause from those in attendance.