Arrest Report - Saturday - May 9, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, May 9, 2026:
Storm Chances Continue Across Northwest Georgia Through Monday
Northwest Georgia residents should prepare for several more rounds of showers and thunderstorms through Monday as an unsettled weather pattern lingers across the region. Forecast confidence remains low regarding exact timing and storm intensity, but forecasters say periods of rain and thunderstorms are expected through the weekend and into the start of the new week.
The National Weather Service says a stalled cold front along the Gulf Coast is helping fuel the wet pattern, while several upper-level disturbances continue moving across the Southeast. Some storms could become strong at times, especially late Saturday into Sunday afternoon.
Forecasters say rainfall coverage and storm development will largely depend on how moisture moves northward into Georgia and how earlier rounds of rain impact atmospheric conditions later in the weekend. Because of those variables, confidence in the exact forecast remains uncertain.
Sunday could bring another round of isolated to scattered thunderstorms, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours if enough daytime heating develops. A few storms may become strong.
A stronger cold front is expected to move through Georgia on Monday, bringing another chance of rain and thunderstorms before cooler and drier air arrives early next week.
After the front passes, temperatures are expected to cool noticeably by Tuesday morning, with lows dropping into the 40s and 50s across portions of North Georgia. Afternoon highs next week should remain mainly in the 70s before gradual warming returns later in the week.
Walker County Sheriff Responds Following ICE Detention of Trion Student
Walker County Sheriff Steve Wilson is responding publicly following growing attention surrounding the ICE detention of 19-year-old Elder Aguilar-Macario, a Trion-area student arrested during a traffic stop in Walker County.
Sheriff Wilson said the Walker County Sheriff’s Office does not independently enforce federal immigration law during routine patrols, but individuals who are booked into jail are processed through systems connected with federal immigration authorities. Wilson explained that once someone is arrested and booked, the process moves beyond the local agency’s direct control.
Aguilar-Macario was arrested on misdemeanor charges of driving without a license and failure to maintain lane before being transferred to Floyd County and later into ICE custody.
The case has sparked strong reactions across Northwest Georgia, especially in Trion and surrounding communities, where supporters say Aguilar-Macario was preparing to graduate and had no serious criminal history.
Sheriff Wilson emphasized that deputies enforce Georgia law and that immigration status checks occur as part of the jail intake process after an arrest is made.
Ducky Derby Jeep Cruise-In Happening Today in Downtown Summerville
Downtown Summerville will be filled with Jeeps, rubber ducks, food vendors, and family fun today during the Ducky Derby Jeep Cruise-In event on East Washington Street.
The event runs from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and features food and craft vendors, kids activities, and a Jeep cruise-in where participating Jeep owners will receive a special rubber duck for their vehicle.
One of the day’s biggest attractions will be the arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad steam engine and the working of the historic Summerville turntable at 1 p.m.
The Rubber Ducky Race is scheduled for 1:30 p.m., with cash prizes awarded to the winning ducks. First place will receive $500, second place $250, and third place $100.
The event is sponsored by GP Federal Credit Union, Pro Roof GA, and Summerville Main Street.
Spark Day Event Planned for June 27 at Dowdy Park in Summerville
A community event aimed at supporting local special needs programs and Special Olympics athletes is coming to Summerville later this summer.
“Spark Day” is scheduled for Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Dowdy Park in Summerville. The event is being organized by the Speak Life Chattooga County Special Needs Support Group.
Organizers say the fundraiser will support adults participating in Special Olympics activities as well as children involved in summer programs. Community members, vendors, and local resource groups are invited to participate, and organizers say there are no vendor fees for the event.
The event will feature local vendors, baked goods, art, jewelry, T-shirts, coffee, and community resources. Organizers also hope the event helps families connect with programs and services available throughout Northwest Georgia.
According to the event description, organizers hope to make Spark Day an annual community tradition focused on inclusion, fun, and support for special needs families across the region.
IRS Extends Tax Deadlines for Southeast Georgia Wildfire Victims
The Internal Revenue Service has announced federal tax relief for individuals and businesses impacted by wildfires and straight-line winds in Southeast Georgia beginning April 18, 2026. Affected taxpayers in Clinch, Echols, and Brantley counties now have until August 20, 2026, to file various federal tax returns and make tax payments.
The relief applies to tax deadlines that originally fell between April 18 and August 20, 2026. This includes individual income tax returns, quarterly payroll and excise tax returns, estimated tax payments, and several business-related filings. The IRS says penalties on payroll and excise tax deposits due between April 18 and May 4 will also be waived if payments are made by May 4.
Taxpayers living or operating businesses outside the disaster area, but whose records are located in the impacted counties, may also qualify for relief by contacting the IRS Special Services hotline. The agency says additional counties could later be added to the disaster declaration area.
The IRS also reminded residents that qualified wildfire relief payments may be excluded from taxable income and that some retirement plan hardship withdrawals may qualify for special disaster-related tax treatment. Free tax preparation assistance remains available through programs such as VITA, TCE, AARP Tax-Aide, and IRS Free File.
Georgia Tax Collections Increase Again in April
Georgia’s tax collections continued to climb in April, according to newly released state revenue figures, reflecting continued growth in sales tax and corporate tax revenues statewide.
State officials reported net tax collections increased compared to the same period last year, continuing a trend of higher revenues during the current fiscal year. Much of the increase was driven by gains in sales and use taxes along with stronger corporate income tax collections.
According to state figures, Georgia collected more than $2.6 billion in net tax revenue during the most recently reported month, representing an increase of nearly 5 percent over the previous year. Year-to-date collections also remain ahead of last year’s pace.
Sales and use tax collections showed some of the strongest growth, reflecting continued consumer spending across the state. Corporate income tax collections also posted double-digit gains compared to the prior year.
Governor Brian Kemp has pointed to the continued revenue growth as evidence of Georgia’s strong economic performance while also supporting recent state income tax rebates now being distributed to eligible taxpayers statewide.
The Georgia Department of Revenue says tax rebate payments began going out this week to qualifying taxpayers who filed their state returns on time. Eligible filers could receive up to $500 depending on filing status.
Twisted Ankle Trail Race Returning to Sloppy Floyd State Park for Special 20th Year Celebration
One of Northwest Georgia’s most popular trail running events is returning to Summerville this fall with a special milestone celebration.
The Twisted Ankle Trail Race will take place Saturday, September 12, at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park in Chattooga County. Organizers say this year marks the 20th running of the race and will feature a special one-time 20-mile event called “Double the Fun,” which includes two climbs up the challenging Becky’s Bluff trail.
The annual race includes multiple distances for runners of all experience levels, including a 5K, 10-mile race, half marathon, and the special 20-mile challenge added for 2026. The race begins at 9 a.m. inside the state park near Summerville.
Organizers say the courses will take runners through trails surrounding the park’s lakes, Marble Mine, Blueberry Trail, portions of the Pinhoti Trail, and the steep climb to Becky’s Bluff. The event is known for rugged terrain, scenic mountain views, rocks, roots, and challenging elevation changes.
Registration officially opened May 1 through UltraSignup, and organizers encourage runners to sign up early due to limited participation spots. Proceeds from the event benefit Friends of the Park and help support Sloppy Floyd State Park.
Race organizers are also planning special activities for the anniversary event, including commemorative medals, a pre-race spaghetti dinner, and a throwback fire pit gathering for runners and supporters.
Summerville Middle School Librarian Named Teach in the Peach Ambassador
Chattooga County Schools is recognizing Summerville Middle School librarian Leigha Burnham after she was selected as a Teach in the Peach Ambassador by the Georgia Department of Education.
Teach in the Peach is a statewide initiative focused on making Georgia the number one state for teachers by attracting, supporting, and retaining high-quality educators. The program also works to elevate the teaching profession and build a strong pipeline of future teachers.
As an ambassador, Burnham will help amplify the voice of educators, promote teaching as a rewarding career, and support teacher recruitment efforts across Georgia. Each ambassador will receive a stipend for their work in teacher recruitment and retention.
Burnham was previously named the 2023 Teacher of the Year for the Chattooga County School System and was also selected as a top ten finalist for Georgia Teacher of the Year last year.
Her selection comes as part of this year’s Statewide Educator Signing Day, which celebrates students committing to enter the teaching profession and highlights the next generation of educators who will help shape Georgia’s future classrooms.
The 2027 Georgia Teacher of the Year will also serve as a Teach in the Peach Ambassador after being named later this month.
Gov. Kemp Signs New Bills Supporting Georgia Law Enforcement
Governor Brian Kemp signed multiple pieces of legislation this week aimed at strengthening public safety and supporting law enforcement officers across Georgia during a ceremony following the annual Public Safety Memorial Ceremony in Forsyth.
Kemp, joined by First Lady Marty Kemp, lawmakers, and public safety leaders, signed 11 bills into law covering areas including law enforcement retirement benefits, autism training for officers, anti-trafficking penalties, and protections for injured officers.
“The Kemp family will always back the blue,” Governor Kemp said during the signing ceremony, adding that the measures reinforce support for officers throughout their careers and retirement.
One of the major bills signed was Senate Bill 452, which significantly increases state contributions to 401(k) retirement plans for POST-certified state law enforcement officers in an effort to improve recruitment and retention.
Kemp also signed Senate Bill 433, known as “Rio’s Law,” which creates a specialty license plate for individuals with autism or developmental disabilities and requires additional law enforcement training for interactions involving autism.
Other legislation signed includes House Bill 1128, reopening benefit application windows for officers suffering traumatic brain injuries, and Senate Bill 547, which increases penalties for pimping and pandering offenses by making first offenses felonies.
Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and House Speaker Jon Burns both praised the legislation, saying Georgia continues prioritizing public safety, support for officers, and stronger criminal penalties.
Arrest Report - Friday - May 8, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, May 8, 2026:
Cooler Weekend Ahead for Northwest Georgia With More Rain and Storm Chances
Northwest Georgia will enjoy cooler temperatures Friday before a warming trend settles in over the weekend, but rain and thunderstorms are expected to return beginning Saturday and continuing into Sunday. Forecasters say another half-inch to two inches of rain could fall across portions of the region through the weekend.
Dry air moving in behind a cold front will keep Friday pleasant with highs mainly in the 70s and low 80s. However, moisture will begin increasing Saturday as a stalled boundary lifts northward, bringing scattered showers back into the area.
The greatest concern for stronger storms currently appears to be south of Northwest Georgia, though forecasters say some storms across central Georgia Saturday night into Sunday morning could become strong. Atmospheric conditions may support isolated severe weather, especially if thunderstorms organize along the advancing front.
Forecast models remain uncertain about exactly where the heaviest rainfall and strongest storms will develop, but periods of showers and thunderstorms are expected across much of north and central Georgia through early next week.
Another round of rain and possible thunderstorms is expected Sunday into Monday as another weather disturbance swings through the Southeast. A cold front is expected to move through Monday, bringing drier and cooler conditions back to the region early next week with highs returning to the 70s and overnight lows dipping into the 40s and 50s.
Woman Arrested For DUI Following Traffic Stop In Chattooga County
A Chattooga County woman was arrested on DUI charges following a late-night traffic stop on April 29, according to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were dispatched to the Highway 100 bridge in response to a report of a vehicle smoking from underneath. A witness reported that the driver, later identified as 53-year-old Ame Ann Rape, appeared disoriented and was attempting to leave the scene.
When deputies arrived, they located Rape’s vehicle and made contact with her. The responding deputy noted a strong odor of alcohol and observed signs of impairment. Rape admitted to having consumed alcohol earlier in the evening.
Authorities conducted field sobriety tests, during which deputies reported multiple clues of impairment, including lack of smooth pursuit in both eyes and difficulty maintaining balance and following instructions during the walk-and-turn test.
Based on the results of the investigation, Rape was placed under arrest and charged with DUI/Alcohol – 0.08 grams or more.
She was transported to the Chattooga County Jail and later consented to a blood test. No further incidents were reported.
The case was handled by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Man Arrested On Criminal Trespass Charge Following Domestic Incident In Chattooga County
A Chattooga County man was arrested following a domestic incident on April 29, according to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were dispatched to 1019 Long Hollow Road in reference to a domestic situation. The caller reported that 24-year-old Blake Alexander Harrell was punching holes in the door. While en route, deputies were advised that Harrell had calmed down.
Upon arrival, the responding deputy made contact with the caller, who stated she and Harrell had been in an argument earlier in the day. She told deputies Harrell became upset and punched holes in a door before sitting on the bed with a small child.
The deputy then spoke with Harrell, who admitted to becoming angry and damaging the door. Due to the damage and the circumstances, Harrell was placed under arrest for Criminal Trespass.
Authorities say Harrell was taken into custody without further incident and transported to the Chattooga County Jail.
The case was handled by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Northwest Georgia Unemployment Rate Drops To 3.3 Percent
The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate dropped two-tenths of a point over the month to 3.3 percent.
That compares to 3.2 percent one year ago.
The region’s labor force increased by 2,155 over the month and by 4,086 over the year, reaching 459,952, an all-time high. The number of employed residents also rose, increasing by 2,996 over the month and 3,515 over the year to 444,625, also an all-time high.
Initial unemployment claims were up by 718 over the month and by 852 over the year, reaching 2,557.
Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said the numbers are a strong sign during Economic Development Week, noting that more Georgians are securing jobs that support families and strengthen communities.
Happening Tomorrow: Summerville Main Street’s Ducky Derby Returns Saturday, May 9
Summerville Main Street’s Ducky Derby is happening tomorrow, Saturday, May 9, outside the Summerville Depot.
The event will run from 10 AM until 3 PM and will feature the duck race down Summerville Town Creek, food and craft vendors, kids’ activities, music, entertainment, and the first 2026 arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Steam Engine filled with passengers.
Train enthusiasts will also get to see TVRM Steam Engine 4501, returning to Summerville in its classic Southern Railway passenger livery as part of TVRM’s 65th anniversary celebration and the locomotive’s 115th birthday.
The Ducky Derby race begins at 1:30 PM. Rubber duck adoption tickets are available for a chance to win cash prizes: $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $100 for third place.
Tickets are $5 each, six for $25, 12 for $50, or 25 for $100. Tickets may be purchased at Summerville City Hall, from Summerville Main Street volunteers, or at the Summerville Main Street Office at 179 Union Street. Tickets will also be sold at the event from 10 AM until 1:15 PM.
The event will also include a Jeep Cruise-In on East Washington Street, a working demonstration of the Summerville Turntable, and a Ducky Calling Contest at 1:15 PM, with registration beginning at 12:30 PM.
The free public event is sponsored by Summerville Main Street, GP Federal Credit Union, and Pro Roof GA.
Stabilization Work Continues On Historic Floyd County Courthouse
Photo credit: WRGA Radio
Stabilization work is continuing on the Historic Floyd County Courthouse following the March 23 fire, as crews move closer to securing the damaged structure.
Floyd County Manager Jamie McCord said contractors have already removed loose brick and coping from the building. Unstable gable ends have also been taken down where the roof structure no longer exists, and two damaged walls in the main courtroom behind the bell tower have been removed.
Crews are still monitoring cracks on the Tribune Street side of the courthouse.
The next major step is a stabilization process known as banding. McCord said a support band will be placed around the building about 45 feet up. Scaffolding is expected to go up this week, and the banding work could begin as early as Friday.
McCord said securing the building is the primary goal, especially so streets around the courthouse can safely reopen. The current target date for reopening the roads is May 22, though officials hope that could happen sooner if work goes smoothly.
McCord acknowledged the closures have been a major disruption, especially with a river crossing shut down in Rome and Floyd County.
All stabilization work is being covered by insurance.
Governor Kemp Signs Major Forestry Legislation Supporting Rural Georgia
Governor Brian P. Kemp signed a major package of forestry and natural resources legislation Thursday at the Georgia Forestry Association headquarters in Forsyth, highlighting what industry leaders are calling a major boost for Georgia’s forestry economy and rural communities.
The centerpiece of the package is House Bill 134, known as the “Keep Georgia Forested Act,” which supporters say will help attract new forestry manufacturing investment, speed up hiring, and strengthen Georgia’s standing as the nation’s top forestry state.
Georgia Forestry Association President and CEO Tim Lowrimore said the legislation delivers important support for both forestry businesses and landowners across the state.
The new law makes Georgia’s existing Jobs and Investment Tax Credits transferable for forestry manufacturers during a five-year window, allowing companies earlier access to capital during startup and expansion phases. Supporters believe the move will encourage faster economic growth in rural Georgia communities.
Governor Kemp also signed several additional forestry-related measures backed by the Georgia Forestry Association.
House Bill 983 provides clearer regulations for prescribed burning used in forestry operations. Forestry officials say prescribed burns are critical for reducing wildfire risks, protecting communities, and maintaining healthy forests — especially following recent wildfire activity across South Georgia.
Senate Bill 306 strengthens protections for landowners participating in Georgia’s Conservation Use Valuation Assessment and Forest Land Protection Act programs. The legislation allows landowners to participate in carbon credit programs without jeopardizing tax agreements and improves notification and reinstatement procedures for property covenants.
House Resolution 1008 ratifies updates to Georgia’s statewide water management plan, including reforms designed to ensure forestry and agriculture interests remain represented in regional water planning.
Georgia’s forestry industry remains one of the state’s largest economic drivers, with approximately 22 million acres of commercially available forestland supporting more than 141,000 jobs and generating an estimated $59 billion annually.
Industry leaders praised Governor Kemp and legislative leaders for supporting forestry families and protecting working forests across Georgia.
City Of Summerville Hiring Gas Maintenance Worker
The City of Summerville is now accepting applications for a Gas Maintenance Worker position.
The job involves assisting with the installation, repair, and maintenance of gas lines and system components throughout the city. Duties include transporting equipment, locating and repairing gas leaks, conducting inspections, maintaining pipelines and meters, and responding to emergency repair calls, including after-hours situations.
Workers will also be responsible for marking underground utilities, performing pressure tests, maintaining tools and inventory, and completing service reports.
The position requires outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions and includes physical tasks such as lifting, climbing, bending, and operating specialized equipment.
Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and typically need one to two years of related experience or training. A valid Georgia driver’s license, or the ability to obtain one, is also required.
Those interested can apply through the City of Summerville employment application.
Georgia Law Will Require Autism Training For Police During Traffic Stops
Georgia lawmakers have approved legislation aimed at helping law enforcement officers better handle traffic stops involving people with autism and developmental disabilities.
The measure, known as “Rio’s Law,” will require officers to receive training on effective communication, de-escalation, and alternatives to handcuffing during encounters with autistic individuals.
The legislation also creates a voluntary specialty license plate designed to alert officers that a driver or passenger may have autism or another developmental disability. Supporters say the goal is to reduce misunderstandings during high-stress situations such as traffic stops.
The bill is named after Rio Luna, a South Carolina boy with autism whose mother pushed for similar legislation after a traumatic traffic stop experience involving sensory overload.
State Sen. Brian Strickland, who sponsored the bill and is the father of a child with autism, said the training requirement will help officers better recognize behaviors linked to autism that might otherwise be misunderstood.
Advocates say autistic individuals may avoid eye contact, struggle with verbal communication, become overwhelmed by lights and sirens, or react differently during stressful situations. The new training is intended to help officers respond more safely and effectively.
The legislation received unanimous approval in the Georgia General Assembly and is expected to take effect in 2027.