Arrest Report - Tuesday - June 16, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, June 16, 2026:
Cooler Temperatures, Daily Storm Chances Continue Across Northwest Georgia; Heavy Rain Possible Later This Week
Northwest Georgia residents can expect a stretch of cooler-than-normal temperatures and daily opportunities for showers and thunderstorms through the upcoming weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
Clouds and periods of rain moved into the region Tuesday as tropical moisture streamed northward into Georgia. The increased cloud cover and rainfall are expected to keep daytime temperatures in the 70s, well below typical mid-June readings.
Rain chances will continue through Wednesday, although coverage is expected to decrease somewhat across Northwest Georgia as a frontal boundary shifts southward. Temperatures should rebound into the lower 80s by midweek.
Forecasters are closely monitoring a tropical disturbance currently moving from Texas toward the Gulf Coast. That system is expected to bring a significant surge of tropical moisture into Georgia Thursday and Friday, increasing the potential for periods of heavy rainfall across the region.
While there remains uncertainty regarding the strength and exact track of the system, meteorologists say precipitable water values could exceed two inches, creating favorable conditions for heavy downpours and localized flooding. Depending on how much instability develops, some stronger thunderstorms may also be possible later this week.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve over the weekend as the tropical system moves east of the area, though isolated afternoon showers and thunderstorms will remain possible. Temperatures should slowly warm but are expected to remain near or slightly below seasonal averages.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather aware and monitor updated forecasts as confidence in the late-week system increases.
Today Is Election Day For Georgia’s Primary Runoff
Today is Election Day in Chattooga County as voters head to the polls for Georgia’s Primary Runoff Election. Polls are open today, Tuesday, June 16, from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.
The runoff will determine party nominees in several federal, statewide, and legislative races ahead of November’s General Election. Several contests remained undecided following the May 19 General Primary after no candidate received the majority vote required to secure a nomination.
Local election officials remind voters that all Election Day voting must take place at a voter’s assigned precinct polling location. There will be no voting today at the Chattooga County Registrars Office.
For today’s runoff, there are two ballot options: Republican and Democratic.
Voters who cast a Republican ballot during the May 19 General Primary must vote a Republican ballot in the runoff. Voters who cast a Democratic ballot in May must vote a Democratic ballot today.
Voters who cast a nonpartisan ballot in May, or who did not vote in the May primary but were registered by April 20, may choose either a Republican or Democratic ballot.
Individuals who registered to vote between April 21 and May 18 will receive a Federal Only ballot, which includes federal races but does not include state contests.
Chattooga County polling locations include:
Gore Fire Hall — 9 Gore Fire Hall Road, Summerville
Lyerly Community Center — 29 Alpine Street, Lyerly
Former Menlo City Hall — 3056 Highway 337, Menlo
Chattooga County Civic Center — 44 Highway 48, Summerville
Trion Recreation Department — 90 Dalton Street, Trion
Voters should bring a government-issued photo ID when they go to vote. Sample ballots are available below.
Trion Proposes $14.7 Million Budget for Fiscal Year 2026-2027
The Town of Trion has released its proposed budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year and is inviting residents to review the spending plan before its adoption later this month.
According to a public notice published by the town, copies of the proposed budget are available for public inspection at Trion Town Hall during regular business hours from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Town officials will hold a public hearing and work session on the proposed budget on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. in the Town Hall Conference Room. The Trion Town Council is scheduled to adopt the budget during its regular meeting on Thursday, June 25, at 6 p.m.
The proposed budget includes the following revenues and expenditures:
- General Fund: $4,046,868.20
- Gas Revenue Fund: $5,212,850.12
- Sewer/WWTP Fund: $4,753,832.20
- Water Fund: $292,500.00
- SPLOST Fund: $391,950.00
The combined proposed budget totals approximately $14.7 million, with revenues and expenditures balanced across all funds.
Residents interested in reviewing the full budget document or providing input are encouraged to attend the June 18 public hearing or visit Town Hall during normal business hours.
Health Inspections for the First Half of June: Two Chattooga County Facilities Receive Perfect Health Inspection Scores
Two facilities in Chattooga County received perfect scores during health inspections conducted during the first half of June.
According to the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department, Dunya Camp, located at 684 Garvin Road in Summerville, received a score of 100 on its tourist accommodation inspection conducted June 12, 2026.
Camp Juliette Low, located at 321 Camp Juliette Low Road at Cloudland, also received a score of 100 on its food service inspection conducted June 2, 2026.
Anyone with a complaint involving a food service establishment or tourist accommodation operating in Chattooga County may contact the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department at 706-857-3377.
Chattooga Beekeepers Association To Visit Chattooga Library
The Chattooga County Library will host a special program featuring the Chattooga Beekeepers Association on Thursday, June 18, at 11 a.m.
The event will be held at the Chattooga County Library, located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville, and is open to the public.
According to event organizers, the program is being presented in recognition of National Pollinator Week, which is observed June 22–28. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the important role pollinators play in maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting agriculture.
Members of the Chattooga Beekeepers Association are expected to provide hands-on information about honey bees and their impact on the environment. The program is designed to increase awareness of pollinators and offer educational opportunities for community members of all ages.
The event is hosted by the Sara Hightower Regional Library System and the Chattooga County Library.
Georgia Gas Prices Continue To Fall
Georgia gas prices have continued to decline in recent weeks, giving drivers some relief at the pump even as overall costs remain a concern.
According to AAA – The Auto Club Group, gas prices in Georgia are down 8 cents from last week and 25 cents from last month, though prices remain 90 cents higher than this time last year.
Montrae Waiters with AAA says the decline is largely tied to crude oil prices remaining below $100 per barrel. However, she says uncertainty in the Middle East could affect how long the downward trend continues.
The current cost to fill a standard 15-gallon tank of regular gasoline in Georgia is approximately $56.40.
Nationally, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline is $4.07, marking the third consecutive week of declines.
In Northwest Georgia, average prices include $3.67 in Chattooga County, $3.56 in Walker County, $3.66 in Floyd County, and $3.66 in Gordon County. Nearby Alabama averages include $3.64 in DeKalb County and $3.58 in Cherokee County.
AAA says drivers can continue saving by comparing prices, combining errands, keeping vehicles properly maintained, and using tools such as the AAA TripTik Travel Planner to find gas and electric charging prices along their route.
Two Indicted In Summerville Drive-By Shooting Case
Two people accused of carrying out a drive-by shooting during a family dispute last summer have been indicted by a Chattooga County Grand Jury.
Isaac Hines and Vinta Youngblood were formally charged in connection with a June 29, 2025, shooting incident at a residence on Church Street in Summerville. According to investigators, the shooting stemmed from an ongoing domestic conflict involving several family members.
Authorities say multiple shots were fired into the home while Marcus Ramon Dupree was staying there. Summerville Police Detective Phillip Cox testified that seven rounds were fired at the residence. Investigators allege that Youngblood drove Hines to the location and that Hines fired the weapon from the vehicle.
The grand jury returned indictments charging both Hines and Youngblood with drive-by shooting, aggravated assault, second-degree criminal damage to property, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Youngblood was also indicted on an additional charge of making false statements.
The case remains pending in Chattooga County Superior Court.
Back To School Bash Organizers Seeking Donations, Volunteers Ahead Of July Event
With just over one month remaining before the annual Back to School Bash, organizers are continuing efforts to collect school supplies and recruit volunteers to help local students prepare for the upcoming school year.
The event is scheduled for July 16, 2026, and organizers hope to serve 400 students by providing backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, and community resources.
According to organizers, donations received so far include 288 book bags, 350 erasers, 59 spiral notebooks, 96 pencil sharpeners, 50 pairs of scissors, 44 glue sticks, 24 highlighters, 40 pencils, and a variety of other school supplies. Despite the progress, additional donations are still needed to meet the goal of serving 400 students.
Several community organizations, agencies, businesses, and volunteers have already committed their support. Participants include Early Head Start, the Chattooga County Library, Atrium Health Chattooga, the Chattooga County Health Department, the Community Resource Center, the Cancer Coalition, the Summerville Recreation Department, and others.
Organizers have also secured four hairstylists who will provide free haircuts during the event, but they are seeking at least two additional stylists or barbers to assist.
Donations of school supplies, financial sponsorships, and volunteers are still being accepted. Anyone interested in helping may contact Maisha Ludy at 706-388-9849 or by email at maishaludy@gmail.com.
Organizers say community support will help ensure local students begin the new school year equipped with the tools and resources they need to succeed.
Alabama Man Charged After Stolen Motorcycle Found In Floyd County
A Cherokee County, Alabama man is facing multiple charges after authorities say he was found in possession of a stolen motorcycle that had been taken from Alabama.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 53-year-old Gregory Wayne Ledbetter of Cedar Bluff was allegedly in possession of a 2002 Yamaha V Star motorcycle that had been reported stolen in Alabama.
Officials said the motorcycle is valued at approximately $2,500.
Ledbetter was arrested and charged with theft by receiving stolen property. Jail records also show he was charged as a fugitive from justice due to an outstanding warrant in Cherokee County, Alabama, and with a probation violation.
The case remains under investigation.
Trion City Schools Announces Destruction of Certain Student Records
Trion City Schools has announced plans to destroy certain student records that are no longer needed for educational purposes, in accordance with Georgia Department of Education policies and procedures.
According to notices published by the school system, records associated with former students born in 2001 or who were part of the Class of 2019 are scheduled for destruction on July 1, 2026.
The records include those maintained by the school system’s Special Education Department, Student Support Services Department, and Gifted Program.
Former students or their guardians who wish to obtain copies of eligible records before they are destroyed must contact the appropriate department prior to July 1. Proper identification will be required before records are released.
For Special Education or Student Support Services records, individuals may contact the Student Services Department at (706) 734-0711. For Gifted Program records, inquiries may be directed to (706) 734-0724.
School officials said the records are being removed because they are no longer required for educational purposes and are eligible for destruction under state record-retention guidelines.
Arrest Report - Monday - June 15, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, June 15, 2026:
Cooler Air Arrives Across Northwest Georgia, Bringing Break From Summer Heat
A cold front moving through Georgia is bringing noticeably cooler and less humid conditions to Northwest Georgia today, ending the recent stretch of hot and stormy weather.
Forecasters say thunderstorms that moved through the state overnight have come to an end, with only a few lingering showers farther south in central Georgia. The front is expected to continue pushing south during the day, allowing cooler and drier air to settle into Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County.
High temperatures today are expected to reach only the low to mid-80s, with lower humidity levels making it feel much more comfortable than recent days. Unlike areas farther south in Georgia, rain and thunderstorms are not expected across Northwest Georgia today, giving the area a quieter and more pleasant June afternoon.
The cooler pattern is expected to continue into Tuesday as another weather disturbance moves northward and tropical moisture increases across the region. Widespread cloud cover and better rain chances will help keep temperatures well below typical mid-June levels. Highs on Tuesday may only reach the upper 70s to lower 80s, offering welcome relief from the heat.
Some parts of Georgia could see pockets of heavier rainfall Tuesday, especially where moisture interacts with the stalled frontal boundary. While severe weather is not expected to be a major concern, any stronger summertime storm could still produce brief gusty winds and heavy downpours.
Looking ahead to the latter part of the week, meteorologists are monitoring a developing area of low pressure that could bring additional tropical moisture into Georgia. The system remains uncertain, but forecasters say rain chances will likely increase late in the week and into the weekend.
If deeper tropical moisture moves into the area, locally heavy rainfall could become possible. Temperatures are expected to remain near or slightly below seasonal averages because of increased clouds and rain chances, though there may be a brief window Thursday when heat index values climb again in parts of the state.
For now, Northwest Georgia can expect a cooler, more comfortable start to the week, with more unsettled weather possible by mid-to-late week.
Nearly Half Of Chattooga County Households Struggle To Afford Basic Needs, New ALICE Data Shows
A newly released report from United For ALICE paints a sobering picture of financial hardship in Chattooga County, showing that many local families are struggling to make ends meet despite being employed.
The ALICE report — which stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — measures households that earn above the federal poverty level but still do not make enough to cover basic necessities such as housing, food, transportation, health care, child care, and technology.
According to the latest Georgia ALICE report, nearly half of Georgia households fall below the ALICE Threshold, meaning they either live in poverty or earn too little to afford the basic cost of living. Statewide, 45 percent of households were below that threshold in 2023.
The county-level data for Chattooga County shows a similar trend, with a significant portion of local households falling below the income needed to meet basic expenses. The report notes that traditional poverty statistics often fail to capture the full extent of financial hardship because many families earn too much to qualify as impoverished but still cannot afford everyday necessities.
United For ALICE researchers say rising costs continue to outpace wages for many workers. The group’s Household Survival Budget estimates that basic living expenses for a family of four in Georgia can exceed $77,000 annually, while many common occupations pay substantially less than what is needed to cover those costs.
The report highlights workers in jobs that are essential to local communities, including retail employees, food service workers, health care aides, child care providers, and others who often earn above the poverty line but remain financially vulnerable.
United For ALICE says its research is intended to provide a more accurate picture of financial challenges facing communities by looking beyond traditional poverty measures and examining the true cost of household essentials. The organization publishes county-level data across Georgia to help policymakers, community organizations, and local leaders better understand economic conditions in their communities.
Summerville Council Will Vote To Adopt Fiscal Year Budget This Evening
The Summerville City Council will hold a special called meeting this evening at 5 p.m. at Summerville City Hall.
According to the meeting agenda, council members will consider several items of business, including approval of the meeting agenda and a consent agenda that includes authorization for Mayor Rickey Hughes to sign a UCBI financing resolution and approval of a change order related to the city’s 2024 Community Development Block Grant project.
The primary item under old business is the second reading and adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget ordinance. The agenda indicates the council will conduct a public hearing before discussion and action on the proposed budget.
The meeting will also include the mayor’s comments, public comments, and any new business that may come before the council.
Citizens wishing to attend or comment on the proposed budget will have an opportunity to do so during the public hearing portion of the meeting.
The special called meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. this evening at Summerville City Hall.
Chattooga County Woman Indicted In Elder Abuse Case
A Chattooga County woman has been indicted by the Grand Jury in connection with an alleged family violence incident involving an elderly person.
Court records show that Tina Michelle Campbell has been charged with battery under the Family Violence Act and exploitation and intimidation of a disabled adult or elderly person. Campbell is accused of striking the elderly person in the face in February of this year.
The indictment is not Campbell’s first accusation involving family violence. In 2010, WZQZ News reported that Campbell and Luke Cody Campbell were arrested by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office and charged with first-degree cruelty to children following an investigation involving injuries to their 3-month-old daughter.
At that time, authorities said emergency room personnel contacted law enforcement after the child was brought to Hutcheson Medical Center in Fort Oglethorpe with a head injury. Chattooga County investigators became involved after it was determined that the child lived in Trion and that the alleged injuries likely occurred in Chattooga County.
In the current case, Campbell faces felony charges related to the alleged abuse of an elderly or disabled adult. The case will proceed through Chattooga County Superior Court.
Campbell is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Chattooga County Democrats To Meet Today, Hear From House Candidate Holly Chaney
The Chattooga County Democratic Party will hold its next meeting today at 6 p.m. at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center, located at 33 Middle School Road in Summerville.
The meeting will feature a public forum with Holly Chaney, a candidate for Georgia House District 12. According to organizers, Chaney’s campaign is focused on issues including the cost of living, healthcare access, and support for public education.
In a statement provided by the campaign, Chaney said she believes the best solutions come from listening to the people who live and work in the district and hearing directly about the challenges they face.
Local Democrats are encouraging residents to attend, learn more about the campaign, and participate in discussions about issues affecting the community.
The meeting is open to the public and begins at 6 p.m. today at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center in Summerville.
Georgia Expands Animal Entry Rules After Screwworm Detection In U.S.
Georgia agriculture officials have expanded animal entry requirements following the detection of New World screwworm in the United States, a livestock pest that was eradicated from the country decades ago.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture says the enhanced interstate movement requirements apply to all warm-blooded animals entering Georgia from Texas, as well as four counties in New Mexico: Eddy, Chaves, Lea, and Roosevelt.
New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living flesh of warm-blooded animals. Livestock, pets, and, in rare cases, people can be affected. Any open wound can become a target for the pest.
Animals coming from an infested zone in South Texas must obtain a Georgia entry permit before entering the state. The permit must be requested at least 48 hours in advance by emailing galivestockpermits@agr.georgia.gov.
Animals coming from other areas of Texas or the affected New Mexico counties must have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection showing they are free of New World screwworm. That certificate must be issued within seven days of travel.
The issue is especially important for livestock owners, animal transporters, veterinarians, and agricultural producers across Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County, where cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and other animals are routinely moved for sale, shows, breeding, and farm operations.
State officials say the added requirements are intended to help protect Georgia’s livestock industry and prevent the spread of the pest into the state.
Brownie Named WZQZ Pet Of The Week
Looking for a loyal companion with a gentle personality? Meet Brownie, the WZQZ Pet of the Week from the Chattooga County Animal Shelter.
Brownie is a male dog known for his sweet temperament and affectionate nature. Shelter staff describe him as having a “teddy bear personality” who loves attention, cuddles, and spending time with people. He is also friendly with other dogs, making him a great candidate for families with existing pets.
Those who have met Brownie say he is calm, loving, and eager to make new friends. Whether he’s enjoying a walk, relaxing with his favorite humans, or soaking up affection, Brownie is happiest when he’s around people.
Brownie is currently available for adoption through the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, located at 464 Red Oak Drive in Summerville. His adoption fee is just $25.
The shelter is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., with Wednesday visits available by appointment. For more information about Brownie or other animals available for adoption, call the shelter at 706-857-0679.
Giving a shelter pet a forever home not only changes the life of the animal, but often brings years of companionship and unconditional love to the adopting family.
Chattooga County Voters Head To Polls Tuesday For Primary Runoff Election
Chattooga County voters will return to the polls Tuesday, June 16, to cast ballots in Georgia’s Primary Runoff Election, which will determine party nominees in several key federal, statewide, and legislative races ahead of November’s General Election.
Several contests remained undecided following the May 19 General Primary after no candidate received the majority vote required to secure a nomination. The runoff election will settle those races and set the stage for the fall campaign season.
More than 2 million of Georgia’s 7.3 million active voters participated in the May primary. Election officials expect turnout to be significantly lower for the runoff, which is typical in Georgia elections.
Among the most closely watched races statewide is the Republican runoff for U.S. Senate between Congressman Mike Collins and former University of Tennessee football coach Derek Dooley. Several statewide executive offices also remain undecided, including races for Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, Labor Commissioner, Insurance Commissioner, State School Superintendent, and Public Service Commissioner.
Important Information For Chattooga County Voters
Local election officials remind voters that all voting on Election Day takes place at their assigned precinct polling location. There will be no voting at the Chattooga County Registrars Office on Election Day.
For the June 16 runoff, there are two ballot options: Republican and Democratic.
Voters who cast a Republican ballot during the May 19 General Primary must vote a Republican ballot in the runoff. Likewise, voters who cast a Democratic ballot in May must vote a Democratic ballot on Tuesday.
Voters who cast a nonpartisan ballot in May, or who did not vote in the May primary but were registered by April 20, may choose either a Republican or Democratic ballot.
Individuals who registered to vote between April 21 and May 18 will receive a Federal Only ballot, which contains federal races but does not include state contests.
Chattooga County Polling Locations
Polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Tuesday. A government-issued photo ID is required to vote.
Chattooga County polling locations include:
- Gore Fire Hall — 9 Gore Fire Hall Road, Summerville
- Lyerly Community Center — 29 Alpine Street, Lyerly
- Former Menlo City Hall — 3056 Highway 337, Menlo
- Chattooga County Civic Center — 44 Highway 48, Summerville
- Trion Recreation Department — 90 Dalton Street, Trion
Bring a government-issued, picture ID when you come to vote. You can see sample ballots below:
