Arrest Report - Sunday - June 28, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, June 28, 2026:
Hot And Mostly Dry Weather Continues Across Chattooga County
Expect another hot and humid day across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, with only a limited chance for relief from scattered afternoon thunderstorms.
Today, there is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 2 p.m. After that, skies will become mostly sunny with a high near 91 degrees. Heat index values could climb as high as 98 degrees, making it feel several degrees hotter during the afternoon. Winds will be light out of the west at around 5 mph, with occasional gusts up to 15 mph. Tonight will be mostly clear and warm with a low around 74.
The heat intensifies Monday as sunshine returns and temperatures climb to around 95 degrees. When humidity is factored in, it could feel as hot as 102 degrees during the afternoon. Monday night will remain mostly clear with temperatures only falling to around 75.
Tuesday brings another sunny, hot day with a high near 95. Only a slight 20 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms is expected, with rain chances ending quickly after sunset.
The forecast changes very little through the remainder of the work week. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday will feature mostly sunny skies, afternoon highs in the mid-90s, and overnight lows in the mid-70s. Rain chances remain low, meaning many locations could go several more days without measurable rainfall.
Looking ahead to Independence Day on Saturday, expect another hot summer day with a high near 95 degrees. A 20 percent chance of an afternoon or evening thunderstorm is in the forecast, but most communities should remain dry for outdoor celebrations and fireworks.
Sheriff Warns Residents About Phone Scam Targeting Chattooga County
Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader is warning residents about a phone scam targeting local citizens.
According to Sheriff Schrader, the Sheriff’s Office received four reports in one day from residents who were contacted by scammers claiming money was owed for missed court dates, civil matters, or bond-related issues. In one case, a victim reportedly lost $2,000.
Sheriff Schrader emphasized that the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, and other legitimate law enforcement agencies, will never call residents and demand payment over the telephone. Law enforcement will not ask anyone to put money on gift cards, prepaid cards, or any other type of card to resolve court issues or bond someone out of jail.
Residents who receive suspicious calls should hang up and contact law enforcement directly using a verified phone number. Sheriff Schrader is asking the public to share the warning with family, friends, and neighbors to help prevent others from becoming victims.
Dangerous Heat Expected Across Northwest Georgia This Week
A prolonged stretch of dangerous heat is expected to impact Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this week, with afternoon temperatures climbing into the 90s and heat index values frequently reaching between 100 and 105 degrees.
Forecasters say the heat will build as a strong area of high pressure settles over the eastern United States, creating several days of hot, humid conditions. Overnight lows are also expected to remain warm, offering only limited relief after sunset.
While isolated to scattered afternoon thunderstorms remain possible on most days, they are not expected to provide widespread cooling. Any storms that do develop could bring brief heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds, but many areas may stay hot and humid through the day.
The combination of high temperatures, humidity, and warm nights will increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Outdoor workers, athletes, older adults, young children, and those without reliable air conditioning should take extra precautions.
Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of water, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, wear lightweight clothing, and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning. Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles.
The hot and humid pattern is expected to continue through much of this week, with little widespread relief anticipated before next weekend.
Chattooga High School Football Program Seeking Business Ads and Player Dedications
Local businesses, families, and supporters of Chattooga High School Football have an opportunity to be part of the 2026 football program while helping support the Indians during the upcoming season.
Businesses can purchase advertising space in the full-color football program, with options including a full-page ad for $125, a half-page ad for $75, a quarter-page ad for $40, or a business card-sized ad for $25. Businesses may submit a ready-made advertisement or provide text and photos for the Computer Science Club to design. A $10 design fee applies for ads requiring layout assistance. The deadline for business advertisements is Friday, July 17.
Families and friends can also recognize student-athletes by purchasing a dedication in the football program. Dedications are available at the same pricing levels—full page, half page, quarter page, and business card size—and may include photos and personalized messages. The deadline for student-athlete dedications is Saturday, July 11.
Both forms list the submission email as spiritshop@chattooga.k12.ga.us. Additional information is available by contacting the Chattooga High School Computer Science Club at 706-857-2402, extension 3141.
USAA Drivers in Georgia to See Auto Insurance Rate Reduction
More than 200,000 Georgia drivers insured through the USAA Group of Companies are expected to see lower auto insurance premiums following a newly approved rate reduction announced by Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King. The overall decrease averages about 2.6 percent and is expected to save Georgia policyholders more than $33 million statewide.
The rate reductions vary by company within the USAA group, with decreases of 4.7 percent for Garrison Property and Casualty Insurance Company, 4.5 percent for USAA Casualty Insurance Company, and 2.4 percent for USAA General Indemnity Company. Commissioner King said the reductions reflect a more competitive insurance marketplace and ongoing efforts to improve affordability for Georgia families.
In addition to the lower rates, USAA has increased its SafePilot participation discount from 10 percent to 15 percent, giving eligible policyholders another opportunity to reduce their premiums. State officials say the latest filing continues a trend of recent auto insurance rate reductions in Georgia as regulators work to increase competition and lower costs for consumers.
Georgia Law Allows Consumer Fireworks, But Safety Should Come First
As Independence Day approaches, many families across Northwest Georgia are preparing to celebrate with fireworks. While Georgia law allows the use of many consumer fireworks, officials are reminding residents that safety should remain the top priority.
Under Georgia law, adults 18 and older may legally purchase and use consumer fireworks, including sparklers, fountains, Roman candles, bottle rockets, aerial shells, and firecrackers. Consumer fireworks may generally be used between 10 a.m. and 11:59 p.m. on most days, with special holiday provisions applying around Independence Day and certain other holidays.
State law also prohibits using fireworks indoors, in the right-of-way of public roads or railroads, and within 100 yards of hospitals, nursing homes, electric substations, gas stations, and certain other sensitive facilities.
Fire officials recommend celebrating responsibly by using fireworks only on a flat, open surface away from homes, trees, vehicles, and dry grass. Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby, never allow young children to handle fireworks without close adult supervision, and never relight a firework that fails to ignite.
Pets are often frightened by the loud noises associated with fireworks, so owners are encouraged to keep animals indoors in a secure, familiar environment. Residents should also be considerate of neighbors, veterans, and others who may be sensitive to the loud explosions.
Anyone attending a professional fireworks display is encouraged to leave the fireworks to trained experts, who are licensed and follow strict safety regulations.
Rising Temperatures Could Bring Higher Georgia Power Bills for Many Families
As temperatures climb into the 90s across Northwest Georgia this week, many Georgia Power customers could see their electric bills rise as air conditioners work harder to keep homes cool.
For moderate- and low-income households, the combination of prolonged heat and higher electricity use can place added strain on already tight budgets. During extended periods of hot weather, air conditioning often becomes the largest source of household energy consumption, especially during the afternoon and early evening when temperatures and demand are at their highest.
Energy experts recommend setting thermostats as high as is comfortably possible, using ceiling fans to improve air circulation, keeping blinds and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day, and replacing dirty HVAC filters to improve system efficiency. Avoiding the use of ovens, dryers, and other heat-producing appliances during peak afternoon hours can also help reduce electricity use.
Families struggling to pay utility bills are encouraged to contact Georgia Power before an account becomes delinquent. The company offers payment arrangements, budget billing options, and information about energy assistance programs that may be available through community agencies and nonprofit organizations.
With forecasters expecting heat index values between 100 and 105 degrees on several days this week, officials stress that staying cool is more than a matter of comfort—it’s a matter of safety. Residents should never avoid using air conditioning because of cost if doing so would place their health at risk. Instead, those needing assistance are encouraged to explore available programs, check on elderly neighbors and relatives, and take advantage of cooling centers if they become available.
Congressman Fuller Visits Northwest Georgia Businesses, Including Smith Ironworks in Chattooga County
Congressman Clay Fuller spent time back in Georgia’s 14th Congressional District last week, meeting with local business owners, workers, and community leaders across Northwest Georgia.
Fuller’s visits included stops with Kennesaw Mayor Derek Easterling, the Medical College of Georgia’s regional campus in Rome, Georgia Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Chris Clark, Covenant Logistics, Solmax Geosynthetics in Ringgold, Catoosa County leaders, and Rockmart Fuel Containment in Polk County.
In Chattooga County, Fuller toured Smith Ironworks, where he met with team members and learned more about the company’s work and role in the local economy.
Fuller said small businesses, manufacturers, transportation companies, and local employers remain a critical part of Northwest Georgia’s economy. He said hearing directly from workers and business leaders helps him better advocate for the district in Washington.
His office said Fuller remains committed to supporting small business owners, workers, and entrepreneurs across Georgia’s 14th District.
Nurses Say State Guidance Could Threaten Rural Health Care Access in Georgia
A dispute over how Georgia law should be interpreted has advanced practice registered nurses warning that patients in rural communities could lose access to medical care if the issue is not resolved.
The debate centers on a recent interpretation issued by the Georgia Composite Medical Board involving a 2006 state law governing the relationship between nurse practitioners and supervising physicians. Under Georgia law, advanced practice registered nurses, or APRNs, must have a protocol agreement with a physician in order to practice. The board’s guidance states that physicians who receive compensation from a nurse-owned clinic for providing that supervision could be considered employees of the clinic, creating legal concerns for those arrangements.
Nursing leaders told members of the Georgia House Health Committee this week that the guidance has already caused some physicians to terminate or reconsider their supervisory agreements. Without those agreements, nurse practitioners cannot legally provide care, raising concerns that some clinics—particularly those serving rural and underserved areas—could be forced to reduce services or close.
The Georgia Board of Nursing says many of the affected practices provide primary care, mental health services, and other essential medical care in communities where physician shortages already exist. Nursing advocates argue that the uncertainty created by the new interpretation could leave patients with fewer local healthcare options.
Representatives of the Medical Association of Georgia and the Georgia Composite Medical Board disagree with claims that the guidance will reduce healthcare access. They say the interpretation is intended to prevent improper “rubber-stamp” supervision arrangements and ensure physicians provide meaningful oversight rather than simply signing agreements for a fee. They also say they are working with the nursing community to clarify the guidance.
Members of the House Health Committee have encouraged both sides to continue working toward a solution without requiring legislative action. For now, the issue remains unresolved, leaving many rural healthcare providers uncertain about how the guidance will affect their practices.
Arrest Report - Saturday - June 27, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, June 27, 2026:
Scattered Storms Continue Through Weekend as Heat Builds Across Northwest Georgia
Residents of Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for another round of afternoon showers and thunderstorms today and Sunday, with a few storms capable of becoming strong to severe, according to the National Weather Service.
The greatest threat for severe weather today will be across far north Georgia, where isolated storms could produce damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning, and locally heavy rainfall during the afternoon and evening hours. While not everyone will see rain, scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop as a weak weather disturbance moves across the region.
Temperatures will continue climbing through the weekend, with afternoon highs reaching the upper 80s to lower 90s today before warming into the low and middle 90s on Sunday. Combined with high humidity, heat index values are expected to top 100 degrees beginning Sunday, making it feel significantly hotter.
Looking ahead, forecasters say the heat will continue to intensify through next week as a strong area of high pressure settles over the eastern United States. Afternoon temperatures will remain in the 90s, with heat index values frequently exceeding 100 degrees and possibly reaching 105 degrees in some locations.
Despite the building heat, isolated to scattered thunderstorms will remain possible each afternoon through much of next week. While widespread rain is not expected, any storm that develops could produce dangerous lightning, brief heavy downpours, and gusty winds.
The National Weather Service encourages anyone spending time outdoors to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning, and remain alert for rapidly changing weather conditions during the afternoon and evening hours.
State Agriculture Officials Ask Georgians To Watch For Yellow-Legged Hornets
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said this week that the Georgia Department of Agriculture is continuing its efforts to track, trap and eradicate the invasive yellow-legged hornet, and he is encouraging residents to help by watching for signs of the destructive insect.
Harper is asking Georgians to be on the lookout for possible secondary nests and to report any suspected sightings to the state.
Residents should watch for hornet activity around beehives, especially during the morning hours before noon and again after 5 PM.
Possible secondary nests may appear as large, round or oval-shaped structures located high in trees or other elevated areas. Officials say the nests are typically gray or brown and made of layered, paper-like material. Depending on temperatures, they may be visible from late summer through winter.
Anyone who believes they have spotted a yellow-legged hornet nest should report the sighting to the Georgia Department of Agriculture by email at yellow.legged.hornet@agr.georgia.gov.
GNTC To Offer Free Application Week For Fall Semester
Georgia Northwestern Technical College will waive application fees next week for students planning to enroll for the 2026 fall semester.
GNTC will host a Free Application Week from Monday, June 29, through Sunday, July 5. During that time, the college will waive the regular $25 application fee for all incoming students. Applicants will not need a special code to receive the fee waiver.
The admissions deadline for the fall semester is August 4, and fall classes are scheduled to begin August 17.
Students who need assistance can contact GNTC’s call center Monday through Friday from 7:45 AM until 4:15 PM at 866-983-4682. More information is also available on GNTC’s website by selecting “Apply Now.”
Questions about Free Application Week may be directed to the GNTC Office of Admissions at 866-983-4682 or by email at admissions@gntc.edu.
AAA: Record Number Of Americans Expected To Travel During Independence Day Holiday
A record number of Americans are expected to hit the road, take to the skies, and set sail during the upcoming Independence Day holiday, according to a new travel forecast from AAA.
AAA projects 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home during the nine-day holiday travel period running from Saturday, June 27, through Sunday, July 5. That surpasses last year’s record of 71.8 million travelers.
The vast majority of travelers—about 61.4 million people, or 85 percent—are expected to drive to their destinations. Despite higher gasoline prices than last year, AAA says road trips remain the most affordable option for many families.
Nearly 5.9 million Americans are expected to fly, while another 4.9 million will travel by bus, train, or cruise ship, making cruises and other alternative travel options the fastest-growing segment this year.
For those traveling by car, AAA recommends leaving early in the day to avoid the heaviest traffic. The organization also encourages motorists to check their vehicle’s battery, tires, and fluids before departing. Last Independence Day week, AAA responded to more than 687,000 roadside assistance calls, with towing, dead batteries, and flat tires among the most common problems.
AAA is also reminding travelers to drive safely during one of the busiest times of the year by avoiding impaired driving, slowing down around emergency vehicles, and always moving over for roadside workers.
Floyd County Man Charged With Aggravated Animal Cruelty
A Floyd County man is facing a felony charge after authorities say he seriously injured a dog with a machete at a Rome hotel.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 25-year-old Joseph Robert Bisher was arrested Wednesday and charged with aggravated cruelty to animals following an incident at a hotel on Martha Berry Boulevard.
Investigators allege Bisher struck a dog named “Oreo” with a machete, causing a deep laceration.
According to the arrest report, when questioned about the incident, Bisher allegedly told authorities he did not want to strike his girlfriend, so he struck the dog instead.
The case remains under investigation.
According To Georgia Recorder, More Than Half Of Georgia Teachers Now Use AI To Prepare For Class
More than half of Georgia’s public school teachers are now using artificial intelligence to help prepare lessons and complete other classroom tasks, according to a new report highlighted this week by the Georgia Recorder.
The report, based on findings from the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts, found that 54 percent of teachers surveyed said they use generative AI tools for lesson planning, classroom activities, grading, or other instructional purposes. At the same time, many educators expressed concern that students’ growing use of AI could negatively affect learning, critical thinking, and academic integrity.
The findings come as school systems across Georgia continue developing policies for the responsible use of artificial intelligence in classrooms. State education leaders have also released guidance encouraging schools to use AI in ways that support teaching while protecting student privacy and promoting ethical use.
State Identifies Three Georgia Beaches With Elevated Fecal Bacteria Levels
Anyone planning a trip to the Georgia coast this summer may want to check beach conditions before heading into the water.
State officials have identified 15 miles of beachfront on Tybee Island, St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island where elevated levels of enterococci, a type of fecal bacteria, have exceeded recreational water quality standards. The affected beach segments have been classified as “not supporting” recreational use under the Clean Water Act.
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, enterococci bacteria can originate from wastewater, failing septic systems, stormwater runoff, wildlife, and pet waste. While the bacteria itself is used as an indicator, elevated levels may signal the presence of other disease-causing organisms that can increase the risk of illness for swimmers.
State officials are working to develop cleanup plans for the affected waters, and public comments on those plans are being accepted through July 16. Before visiting Georgia’s beaches, officials recommend checking the latest advisories through the Georgia Healthy Beaches program
Spark Day Happening Today In Summerville
A community event aimed at supporting local special needs programs and Special Olympics athletes is happening today in Summerville.
“Spark Day” will be held today, Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Dowdy Park. 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, along with children involved in summer programs. Community members, vendors, and local resource groups are expected to take part, with no vendor fees for the event.
Spark Day 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.
The goal is to make Spark Day an annual community tradition focused on inclusion, fun, and support for special needs families across the region.
Chattooga County Unemployment Rate Edges Up In May
Chattooga County’s unemployment rate edged slightly higher in May, according to newly released figures from the Georgia Department of Labor.
The county posted a jobless rate of 3.8 percent for May, up from 3.7 percent in April. Despite the small monthly increase, the local rate remains relatively low as Georgia continues to report strong employment numbers statewide.
Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said May traditionally brings a new wave of workers into the job market as graduates begin looking for employment. She said Georgia’s growing workforce remains one of the reasons companies continue to invest across the state.
Statewide, Georgia has now surpassed 5 million jobs, a milestone labor officials say reflects continued opportunity for both new workers and experienced professionals.
For Chattooga County, the latest numbers show a modest increase in unemployment heading into the summer months, while the overall labor market remains steady.