Arrest Report - Thursday - June 4, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, June 4, 2026:
Comfortable Weather Continues Before Rain Chances Return
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can look forward to several more days of dry and comfortable weather before the return of typical summertime showers and thunderstorms later this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, high pressure remains firmly in control across Georgia, keeping skies mostly clear and preventing Gulf moisture from moving into the region. As a result, rain chances will remain near zero through Saturday while humidity levels stay lower than what is typically expected for early June.
Temperatures today are expected to reach the low to mid-80s under sunny skies, with overnight lows dropping into the upper 50s. The pleasant weather pattern will continue into Friday, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities, yard work, and community events across Northwest Georgia.
Forecasters say the comfortable conditions won’t last forever. By late Saturday and especially Sunday, moisture will begin increasing as winds shift more from the south and southwest. That change will bring back the possibility of scattered afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms.
Rain chances are expected to continue through the middle of next week. At this time, the forecast points toward the typical summer pattern of isolated to scattered storms developing during the hottest part of the day rather than widespread severe weather.
Temperatures through next week are expected to remain seasonable, with daytime highs generally in the 80s. Overnight lows will gradually become warmer as humidity increases, climbing into the upper 60s and near 70 degrees by early next week.
Weather officials encourage residents to enjoy the unusually comfortable stretch of early June weather while it lasts before more familiar summertime conditions return to the region.
Chattooga County Animal Control Seeking Donations Of Kitten Food
Chattooga County Animal Control is asking for the community’s help as the shelter experiences an influx of young kittens.
According to shelter officials, 14 kittens have been taken in during the past week alone, including nine that arrived without their mother and require additional care and feeding.
The shelter is currently in urgent need of wet kitten food donations, and officials say any brand will help. Donations can be dropped off during shelter operating hours or mailed directly to the facility.
Chattooga County Animal Control is located at 464 Red Oak Drive in Summerville.
Regular shelter hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Wednesday visits are available by appointment.
Officials say community support is critical in helping provide proper nutrition and care for the young animals until they are ready for adoption.
Anyone wishing to help can donate wet kitten food directly to the shelter.
Lyerly Fire Department Plans Fundraiser To Support Back-To-School Bash
The Lyerly Fire Department is asking for community support as it prepares for its annual Back-to-School Bash, which provides free school supplies and book bags to local students.
The department will host a fundraiser on Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Lyerly Fire Department.
The event will feature a car wash with a suggested donation of $10 as well as barbecue sales to help raise money for the school supply giveaway. Organizers say the fundraiser plays an important role in helping ensure local children have the supplies they need for the upcoming school year.
Barbecue plates will be available for $8 and barbecue sandwiches will be sold for $5. In addition, the department is accepting pre-orders for a $40 barbecue kit that includes a smoked Boston butt, a bottle of barbecue sauce, and a 16-pack of buns.
The fire department is also collecting school supply donations. Items such as notebooks, crayons, pencils, backpacks, and other classroom necessities may be dropped off at Lyerly City Hall or the Lyerly Fire Department garage.
Anyone interested in placing a barbecue kit pre-order can contact Breanna at 706-584-0974.
Fire department officials say they appreciate the community’s support and hope the fundraiser will help make this year’s Back-to-School Bash a success for local students and families.
Georgia Expands Support For Farmers With New Resource Center As Trade Talks Continue
Georgia agriculture leaders are continuing efforts to strengthen the state’s farming industry through new business resources and expanded market opportunities.
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper recently announced the opening of the Albany Georgia Grown Resource Center, a partnership between the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission. The facility is designed to serve as a regional hub for farmers, food producers, agritourism operators, processors, and other agriculture-related businesses.
The Albany location is the second of nine planned Georgia Grown Resource Centers across the state. Officials say the centers will provide marketing assistance, educational programs, food safety training, business development resources, and support for expanding retail and wholesale opportunities.
Commissioner Harper said the goal is to bring resources directly to agricultural communities and help farm businesses grow, compete, and succeed in an increasingly challenging marketplace.
At the national level, U.S. officials are also pursuing expanded agricultural trade opportunities with China. According to agricultural industry reports, discussions are underway to increase Chinese purchases of American farm products ahead of a possible presidential trip next month. Potential agreements could include increased purchases of products such as pork, dairy products, and specialty crops.
The developments come as many farmers face economic challenges heading into the 2026 growing season. Lower commodity prices, higher input costs, and ongoing trade uncertainty have created tight profit margins for many agricultural producers across the country. Industry analysts say stronger export markets could provide additional support for farm income in the months ahead.
Agriculture remains Georgia’s leading industry, generating billions of dollars in economic activity annually and supporting thousands of jobs throughout the state, including many communities in Northwest Georgia.
Walker County Commissioners Schedule FY2027 Budget Work Sessions
The Walker County Board of Commissioners has scheduled a series of budget work sessions next week as county leaders begin reviewing and discussing the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget.
According to the published agenda, budget workshops will be held June 9, 10, and 11 at the Walker County Commissioners Office located at 101 South Duke Street in LaFayette.
The sessions will allow commissioners to hear presentations, review departmental requests, and discuss financial priorities before the proposed budget is formally presented later this month.
The first budget workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, beginning at 9 a.m. Presentations will continue through the morning before a lunch recess from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Afternoon presentations are scheduled from 1 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.
A second work session will be held Wednesday, June 10, from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.
The final budget workshop is scheduled for Thursday, June 11. Presentations will take place from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., followed by a lunch recess from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Additional presentations are planned from 1:30 p.m. until 2 p.m.
County officials have also announced a Special Called Meeting of the Walker County Board of Commissioners for Friday, June 26, at 8:30 a.m. at the Courthouse Annex IV, located at 101 South Duke Street in LaFayette. During that meeting, the county’s Chief Financial Officer is expected to formally present the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget to the Board of Commissioners.
The budget workshops are open to the public and provide residents an opportunity to observe discussions regarding county spending plans and priorities for the upcoming fiscal year.
Mosquito Population Expected To Surge Across Georgia This Summer
Georgians may want to keep the bug spray handy this summer as experts warn that mosquito populations are expected to be especially active across the state.
Mosquitoes thrive in Georgia’s warm, humid climate, and a combination of seasonal rainfall and rising temperatures is creating ideal breeding conditions. Experts say even small amounts of standing water can quickly become mosquito breeding sites, leading to increased populations throughout neighborhoods and rural areas alike.
One of the biggest concerns is the Asian tiger mosquito, an aggressive daytime-biting species commonly found across Georgia. The mosquito can breed in surprisingly small amounts of water, including flowerpots, birdbaths, clogged gutters, buckets, children’s toys, and other outdoor containers.
Health officials also remind residents that mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance. Georgia health agencies monitor mosquito-borne illnesses including West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, and La Crosse encephalitis. West Nile virus remains the most commonly reported mosquito-borne disease in Georgia and the United States.
Experts recommend several simple steps to reduce mosquito activity around homes:
- Eliminate standing water from containers, gutters, and low-lying areas.
- Change water in birdbaths regularly.
- Wear light-colored clothing when outdoors.
- Use EPA-approved insect repellents.
- Repair window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of the home.
Mosquito season in Georgia typically peaks during the hottest months of summer and can continue well into the fall, especially following periods of frequent rainfall. Residents in Northwest Georgia are encouraged to take preventive measures now before mosquito populations reach their seasonal highs.
Armuchee Teacher Turns Survival Story Into Mission To Encourage Blood Donations
An Armuchee Elementary School teacher who survived a life-changing crash is now using her story to encourage others to donate blood.
Hannah Nabors lost her leg in February 2025 after being involved in a crash with a drunk driver. During her recovery, Nabors said support from her co-workers and students helped give her strength and motivation to return to the classroom before the end of the school year.
Nabors said her school family sent videos, cards, and messages while she was away, helping her stay connected during a difficult time. Even after she began driving again with a prosthetic leg, she said passing the crash site was emotionally overwhelming.
But Nabors chose to move forward by giving back. She began donating blood after realizing that blood donations from others helped save her life. Earlier this year, she hosted a blood drive with the Blood Assurance clinic in Rome to mark the anniversary of her crash.
Blood Assurance says donors like Nabors are especially important as blood shortages continue to impact patients across the country. Without compatible blood donations, some patients may become seriously ill or may not survive.
Blood Assurance has also partnered with Goodlabs to offer free blood testing to participating donors. The program allows donors to receive health information, including testing panels that could otherwise cost hundreds of dollars out of pocket. Donors can also track health trends over time through an online portal.
Nabors, who is active and recently ran the Boston Marathon, said donating blood is one way she can help someone else receive the same chance she was given.
She has also been involved in advocacy efforts, including helping get Senate Bill 503 passed, which expands healthcare coverage for prosthetics.
Nabors said returning to her classroom now carries a deeper meaning because she knows she is there because of faith and the willingness of others to donate blood.
Anyone interested in donating through Blood Assurance can visit the Blood Assurance website for more information.
Safety Day With The Summerville Fire Department Happening Today At Chattooga Library
Children and families will have an opportunity to learn about fire safety and meet local firefighters during a special event happening today at the Chattooga County Library in Summerville.
The Sara Hightower Regional Library System is hosting Safety Day with the Summerville Fire Department today at 11 a.m. at the Chattooga Library, located at 360 Farrar Drive.
The event is designed for children ages 0 to 11 and will feature local firefighters sharing important safety information in a fun and engaging environment. Young attendees will also have the opportunity to tour a fire truck, meet firefighters, and learn about the equipment they use to protect the community.
Organizers say the program is intended to help children become more familiar with fire safety practices while giving them a chance to interact with local first responders.
The event is free and open to the public. Families are encouraged to attend and take advantage of this educational opportunity while school is out for the summer.
James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park Hosting Turtle Hike June 6
Nature lovers of all ages are invited to lace up their hiking shoes and head to James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park this weekend for a guided Turtle Hike.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, at 11 a.m. at the park, located at 2800 Sloppy Floyd Lake Road in Summerville.
According to park officials, participants will hike along the Upper Lake Trail while learning about the turtles that call the park home. The guided program will offer visitors an opportunity to explore nature while discovering more about local wildlife and the important role turtles play in the ecosystem.
Attendees are asked to meet at the park office before 11 a.m. and should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water for the hike. Binoculars will be available for use during the program, although participants are encouraged to bring their own if they have them.
The event is open to the public and is designed to provide a fun and educational outdoor experience for families, children, and anyone interested in learning more about the natural resources found in Chattooga County.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park is one of Northwest Georgia’s premier outdoor recreation destinations, offering hiking trails, fishing, camping, boating, and opportunities to observe wildlife throughout the year.
Chattooga Early Head Start Accepting Applications For Upcoming School Year
Families in Chattooga County are encouraged to apply now as Chattooga Early Head Start begins accepting applications for the upcoming school year.
The program serves children from six weeks to four years of age and also offers services for expectant mothers. Early Head Start and Head Start programs are designed to promote school readiness while supporting children’s educational, social, emotional, and developmental growth.
According to the Family Resource Agency of North Georgia, qualifying families can participate at no cost. The program also features low teacher-to-child ratios, allowing for more individualized attention and learning opportunities.
Officials encourage parents and guardians to submit applications as soon as possible to secure a place on the waiting list for the upcoming school year.
The Family Resource Agency says the program focuses on preparing children for future academic success while providing resources and support to families throughout the early childhood years.
For more information or to apply, families can contact Chattooga Early Head Start at 706-857-1651, extension 7611 or 7612. Questions may also be directed by email to Acareathers@myfraga.org or Tstriblin@myfraga.org.
Berry College Students Named Gilman Scholars
Three Berry College students have received Gilman Scholarships to support their study abroad programs in Japan, Spain and Costa Rica this summer.
The Gilman Scholarship supplies up to $5,000 in merit-based scholarships to exceptional students and is overseen by the Institute of International Education. The scholarship aims to encourage foreign language skills, international experience, and global networking.
Destiny Castro, a sophomore from Rome, Georgia, and a Spanish and mathematics double major, will study in Valencia, Spain.
“I aspire to use my Spanish major in a career where I can communicate with those from other cultures and serve communities to bring them closer to Christ. My volunteer work at ESL has motivated me to become certified to teach English as a foreign language, especially in international environments,” Castro said. “I value that Valencia offers cultural experiences in a setting where it does not feel overwhelming, especially since I am a first generation college student studying abroad for the first time.”
Faith Owens, a sophomore from Fairmount, Georgia, will attend a biology program in Costa Rica. Owens is a double major, studying biology and environmental science while pursuing a minor in psychology.
Abby Shoemake, a junior from Cumming, Georgia, majoring in elementary education, was also named a Gilman Scholar. During her time abroad, she will visit early education schools and contribute to the students’ skills in language development.
“ I will be traveling to Japan which is known for their high academic performance and community-based learning style. I am hoping to learn how I can bring some of their unique classroom management skills back to the United States and implement their successful strategies into my future classroom.”
Media release from Berry College, written by Public Relations Student Associate Ellie Davenport
Arrest Report - Wednesday - June 3, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, June 3, 2026:
Cooler Mornings and Dry Conditions Through Saturday
Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia will continue to enjoy an unusually comfortable stretch of early June weather, with dry skies, cool mornings, and mild afternoon temperatures expected through the end of the work week.
The National Weather Service says high pressure remains in control across north and central Georgia, keeping rain chances near zero through at least Saturday. Lingering clouds have moved out of the area, allowing mostly sunny skies to return.
Temperatures will be one of the bigger weather stories over the next couple of mornings. Overnight lows are expected to fall into the low to mid-50s across much of the region, making it feel more like spring than the beginning of summer. Some residents may even want a light jacket early in the morning.
Afternoon conditions will remain pleasant, with highs today reaching the mid to upper 70s. Lower humidity and dewpoints near 50 degrees will help keep the air feeling comfortable. Breezy winds between 10 and 20 mph are also expected at times.
Dry weather will continue Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, with morning lows generally in the 50s and afternoon highs warming into the 80s by the end of the week. Humidity levels are expected to remain manageable, making for several nice days across Summerville, Trion, Menlo, Lyerly, and surrounding communities.
Changes begin to arrive late in the weekend as the ridge of high pressure shifts offshore and moisture returns from the south. By Sunday afternoon and evening, isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms will become possible across Georgia.
Rain chances are expected to increase to around 20 to 30 percent on Sunday, then rise into the 30 to 40 percent range by Monday afternoon. Forecasters say the pattern looks like a typical summertime setup, with showers and thunderstorms mainly developing during the warmer parts of the day.
At this time, no widespread severe weather or flooding threat is expected. Any storms that do develop should be the kind of pop-up afternoon storms common during the summer months in Northwest Georgia.
Wild West Fun, Steam Train Arrival Planned At Summerville Depot Saturday
A day of cowboy adventures, family activities, shopping, and railroad history is coming to downtown Summerville this Saturday as Summerville Main Street hosts its annual Wild West celebration at the Historic Summerville Depot.
The free event will take place June 6 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the depot, located at 119 East Washington Street.
Visitors can enjoy food and craft vendors, live entertainment, historical demonstrations, free mechanical bull rides, and plenty of family-friendly activities throughout the day.
One of the featured attractions will be the Spurred West Living History Group, which will transform part of the depot into a 19th-century saloon complete with historical displays and demonstrations. Reenactors will portray characters from the Old West, including Georgia-born frontier con man Jefferson “Soapy” Smith, while sharing stories and insights about life on the frontier.
Live gunfight reenactments are scheduled for 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. outside the depot. Between performances, visitors will have opportunities to meet cast members, take photographs, and learn more about cowboy culture and western history.
Children and families can also enjoy visits from the Cowboy Church Clowns, known for their family-friendly entertainment and photo opportunities. A new attraction this year will be free mechanical bull rides, with riders able to choose their preferred speed. Participants will be required to sign a waiver before riding.
Railroad enthusiasts will want to have their cameras ready for one of the day’s biggest highlights. At approximately 12:30 p.m., the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s historic 4501 steam locomotive is expected to arrive from Chattanooga with a passenger excursion train. Visitors will also have the opportunity to watch the locomotive being turned on the historic Summerville turntable.
Organizers say the event offers something for all ages and serves as a celebration of both the area’s railroad heritage and the spirit of the American West.
Rising Housing Costs Continue To Squeeze Chattooga County Residents
Finding affordable housing has become increasingly difficult for many families in Chattooga County as rent prices continue to rise while wages struggle to keep pace with the cost of living.
Just a few years ago, renters could often find apartments or rental homes in the county for well under $700 per month. Today, it is not uncommon to see rental properties listed for $900 to $1,500 a month, depending on size, condition, and location. In some cases, available rentals are receiving multiple inquiries within days of being listed.
For many local residents, housing costs are consuming a larger share of monthly income than ever before. Financial experts generally recommend spending no more than 30 percent of household income on housing. However, many working families are finding themselves well above that threshold, leaving less money available for groceries, utilities, healthcare, transportation, and other necessities.
The pressure is being felt by young adults trying to move out on their own, seniors living on fixed incomes, and working families balancing childcare and household expenses. Some residents have reported taking on roommates, moving in with relatives, or commuting longer distances in search of more affordable housing options.
The housing shortage is not unique to Chattooga County. Communities across Georgia and the nation continue to face a limited supply of affordable rental units, increased construction costs, higher insurance rates, and growing demand for housing.
Local leaders and housing advocates say affordable housing remains one of the county’s most significant long-term challenges. Organizations such as Habitat for Humanity Coosa Valley continue working to expand homeownership opportunities in northwest Georgia, while economic development officials point to the need for additional housing options to support workforce growth.
Meanwhile, many residents continue looking for ways to stretch their budgets as rising rent, food, insurance, and utility costs put increasing pressure on household finances.
As the cost of living continues to climb, affordable housing remains a major concern for many families throughout Chattooga County and northwest Georgia.
GNTC Foundation Scholarship Application Period Now Open
Students planning to attend Georgia Northwestern Technical College now have an opportunity to apply for scholarship assistance through the GNTC Foundation.
The scholarship application period is currently open, allowing eligible students to apply for a variety of scholarships funded through the Georgia Northwestern Technical College Foundation. Scholarships are available to help students offset the cost of tuition, books, and other educational expenses while pursuing their academic and career goals.
GNTC officials encourage both current and prospective students to complete the application process as early as possible. Scholarship opportunities vary and may be based on academic achievement, program of study, financial need, community involvement, or other criteria established by donors.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College serves students across northwest Georgia, including campuses in Floyd, Gordon, Polk, Walker, and Whitfield counties.
Students can learn more about available scholarships and submit applications through the GNTC Foundation website.
Georgia Drivers Seeing Higher Gas Prices After Tax Suspension Ends
The price of filling up is headed higher now that Georgia’s temporary gas tax suspension has expired.
Governor Brian Kemp did not extend the suspension beyond Tuesday, meaning the state’s motor fuel excise tax is back in effect as of today.
The tax adds approximately 33 cents per gallon on gasoline and about 37 cents per gallon on diesel fuel.
In Chattooga County and across northwest Georgia, prices may not jump by the full amount at every station all at once. Some retailers may still be selling fuel purchased before the tax returned. But as stations replenish supplies, drivers should expect prices to climb.
For a typical 15-gallon fill-up, the return of the tax could add around five dollars to the cost of a tank of gas.
Local competition, wholesale fuel costs, and existing inventory will determine how quickly prices change from station to station. Even so, drivers should be prepared for noticeably higher fuel costs through the rest of the week.
DNR Proposes Updates To Georgia Protected Species List
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is proposing updates to the state’s protected species list for the first time since 2006.
The list includes plant and animal species protected under Georgia’s Endangered Wildlife Act and Wildflower Preservation Act. These are species considered most in need of conservation across the state.
State listing makes it illegal to intentionally harm protected animals. It also restricts removing protected plants from state land without a permit, or from private land without the landowner’s permission.
DNR says the proposed updates include adding and removing species, updating scientific names, and aligning some state listings with federal status.
The agency says the changes were developed as part of the 2025 revision of Georgia’s State Wildlife Action Plan.
The public may also nominate species for consideration through June 30, 2026, using the online nomination form provided by DNR.
Final proposed changes will be made available for public comment before being sent to the Board of Natural Resources for adoption.
Habitat Coosa Valley Breaks Ground On 62nd Home
Habitat for Humanity Coosa Valley has broken ground on its 62nd home, which will be built for the Cornejo family.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held Sunday, May 31, at the future home site on Brown Street in East Rome. Habitat officials say the project marks an important step toward providing the family with safe, affordable housing and long-term stability.
Executive Director Betsy Allgood said the home represents more than walls and a roof, calling it a foundation for stability, opportunity, and hope.
Habitat homes are built through partnerships involving volunteers, donors, community organizations, and the future homeowners themselves.
Habitat for Humanity Coosa Valley serves Floyd, Chattooga, and Polk counties. More information about volunteer opportunities or ways to support the organization is available at habitatcoosavalley.org.