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.
Chattooga County Senior Center Hosting May Memorial Day Raffle Fundraiser
The Chattooga County Senior Center is hosting a May Memorial Day raffle ticket fundraiser to support local seniors.
Tickets are $1 each or six for $5 and may be purchased at Bryant & Sons or at the Chattooga County Senior Center Monday through Friday from 8 AM until 2 PM.
Participants will have a chance to win either three John Wayne books and two framed postage stamps, or a Nostalgia KPM200 2.5-ounce kettle popcorn maker, which will include one starter pack of popcorn.
The winner will be announced Friday, May 29, through Facebook Live and by phone.
Highland Avenue In Summerville To Close For Ongoing Sewer Project
The City of Summerville has announced a temporary closure on Highland Avenue due to an ongoing sewer project.
Highland Avenue will be closed to through traffic from Monday, May 11th through Friday, May 15th, between East First Avenue and Sixth Avenue. The closure will be in effect daily from 7:00 AM until 8:00 PM.
Residents and businesses within the closure area will still have access to their properties, but minor delays should be expected.
Motorists are advised to use Highway 27 northbound and southbound as the primary alternate route during the closure.
Arrest Report - Thursday - May 7, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, May 7, 2026:
Pollen Extremely High Across Northwest Georgia
Allergy sufferers across Northwest Georgia are dealing with very high grass pollen levels today, creating a significant allergy risk throughout the area. Forecasters say the elevated pollen counts are expected to remain high through Friday.
Tree pollen levels are currently listed as moderate, but the high concentration of grass pollen is likely to trigger symptoms for many residents, including sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and headaches.
Recent warm temperatures combined with spring growth have helped fuel the increase in pollen across the region. Dry conditions and breezy weather can also allow pollen to spread more easily through the air.
Health experts recommend limiting outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, keeping windows closed, showering after spending time outside, and taking allergy medications as directed.
Conditions could begin to improve later this weekend as increased rain chances move back into Northwest Georgia.
Rain Moves Out As Cooler, Drier Air Settles Into Northwest Georgia
Rain will continue pushing out of Northwest Georgia this morning as a cold front moves away from the region. Behind it, high pressure will build in across Tennessee and North Georgia, bringing drier and cooler conditions through Friday.
Highs today and Friday will mainly stay in the 70s, with 60s possible in the Northeast Georgia mountains. Overnight lows tonight will fall into the 40s and 50s.
The dry break will not last long. Another system developing near the Texas Gulf Coast will move toward the Southeast by the start of the weekend, bringing scattered showers and a few weak thunderstorms Saturday. Rain chances will increase Sunday as warmer, more humid air returns ahead of another cold front.
Forecasters say severe weather is not expected at this time, but showers and non-severe thunderstorms may continue into Sunday night.
Cooler, drier air returns early next week. A few showers may linger Monday morning before conditions turn breezy and dry. Highs Monday and Tuesday will be in the low to mid 70s, with temperatures warming back into the 80s by Wednesday.
Trion High School Senior In ICE Custody Following Traffic Stop
A Trion High School senior who was expected to graduate in just a few weeks is now in ICE custody following a traffic stop in Walker County.
Nineteen-year-old Elder Aguilar-Macario was arrested on misdemeanor charges of driving without a license and failure to maintain lane. Following the arrest, he was transferred to Floyd County and later placed into the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, commonly known as ICE.
Aguilar-Macario came to Trion as an eight-year-old first grader in 2014 and has spent more than a decade in the Trion school system. Friends, classmates, and school staff say he has been an active member of the school community, including playing for the Trion High School soccer team during its playoff run to the Elite Eight this season.
School counselor Erika Dover said several school staff members, including Coach Cornett and Mr. Edge, remained at the Walker County Jail for hours after the arrest attempting to get information and support their student.
According to Dover, Aguilar-Macario contacted his parents after being transferred to Floyd County, where school officials later learned he would be held for ICE authorities pending transfer to an immigration detention facility.
Dover described the situation as heartbreaking and questioned what options were realistically available to a child brought into the country at a young age.
“He didn’t even make that choice himself,” Dover said. “He’s had no way to gain legal status, and it’s not like a high school kid can just take himself back to Guatemala — but he’s still paying for it like a criminal.”
Dover said Aguilar-Macario has been part of the Trion community since childhood and described him as a good student and teammate who was preparing for graduation and looking toward his future.
She also urged compassion from the community, saying she has struggled to identify what the student could have realistically done differently to avoid the situation.
Aguilar-Macario remains in ICE custody awaiting transfer to a detention facility.
Bus Driver Shortage Delays Chattooga County School Bus Route
The Chattooga County School District reported Wednesday morning that Bus 104 was running one hour behind schedule due to a bus driver shortage.
The delay highlights an ongoing need for school bus drivers in Chattooga County.
The school system is currently hiring drivers, encouraging residents to help provide safe and reliable transportation for local students.
Officials say the job offers a consistent schedule, meaningful work, midday free time, and opportunities for retirees or those seeking part-time hours.
Interested applicants can contact the Chattooga County Board of Education at 706-857-3447 or 706-857-3440. The board office is located at 33 Middle School Road in Summerville.
Trenton Man Sentenced To Consecutive Life Terms In Child Sexual Abuse Case
A Trenton man has been sentenced to consecutive life prison terms after being convicted by a Dade County jury on multiple child sexual abuse charges.
Randall Dakota Wallin, 36, was convicted following a three-day trial before Judge Chris Arnt that concluded on April 22nd. Wallin was found guilty of aggravated child molestation, aggravated sexual battery, and two counts of child molestation.
According to prosecutors, the case began on July 31st, 2024, when the Dade County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Family and Children’s Services responded to a report of sexual abuse at a residence on Casey Road.
Investigators said multiple minors were found living in deplorable conditions at the home. All of the children were later removed from the residence after one minor disclosed sexual abuse involving Wallin.
A forensic interview was later conducted at the Children’s Advocacy Center in Fort Oglethorpe, where the victim disclosed extensive abuse that occurred when she was 13 years old.
The case was investigated by former Dade County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Misty McConathy and prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Kevin Baugh, with assistance from members of the District Attorney’s Office trial team and victim-witness services staff.
Wallin was sentenced on April 29th to serve consecutive life sentences in prison. Under Georgia law, prosecutors say he will not be eligible for parole until he has served 60 years.
Acting District Attorney Deanna Reisman praised the victim’s courage in coming forward and said the sentence ensures Wallin will never again have the opportunity to harm a child.
Summerville Woman Arrested On Obstruction Charge During Warrant Service
The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Summerville woman last week after deputies say she interfered while officers were attempting to serve an arrest warrant at a residence on Airport Road.
According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, 51-year-old Jodi Shook was charged with misdemeanor obstruction of officers following the April 29 incident.
Deputies reported they went to the home around 10:42 p.m. to serve a warrant for James Shook. Officers said they announced themselves and spoke with Jodi Shook at the door after seeing a vehicle they believed James Shook had been driving.
Authorities say Jodi Shook told deputies James Shook was not home, but officers later located him inside the residence and took him into custody.
The report states Jodi Shook was then arrested for hindering the apprehension of her husband after deputies determined she had knowledge he was inside the home.
She was transported to the Chattooga County Detention Center without further incident.
The case was handled by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Georgia Highlands College To Hold Graduation Ceremonies In Rome
Georgia Highlands College will celebrate hundreds of graduates during commencement events set for May 14th and May 15th in Rome.
The college will hold three events this year at the Floyd Campus gym, located at 3175 Cedartown Highway.
Graduation ceremonies are scheduled for Thursday, May 14th, at 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The Nursing Pinning and Commencement Ceremony will be held Friday, May 15th, at 10:30 a.m.
Due to limited seating, attendance will be restricted to graduates and four guests per graduate. GHC identification and guest passes will be required to enter the venue area.
For those unable to attend in person, livestreams of the ceremonies will be available through the college website at highlands.edu, as well as on Georgia Highlands College’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
Featured speakers this year include Shelley Wynter, Kevin Corke, Charlie Culberson, CJ Stewart, and Pascale Charlot.