Arrest Report - Saturday - July 25, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, July 25, 2026:
Weekend Thunderstorms Give Way to Rising Heat and Humidity Next Week
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for a classic mid-summer weather pattern over the coming days, featuring scattered afternoon thunderstorms to start the weekend followed by a steady climb in temperatures heading into next week.
According to regional forecast data, conditions today and tonight carry a 50 percent chance of rain and thunderstorm activity, providing temporary relief from the heat but posing potential disruptions for afternoon outdoor plans. However, as storm chances taper off on Sunday, dry air and intense sunlight will drive heat index values close to triple digits, setting the stage for unseasonably hot weather across the region through mid-week.
For today, Northwest Georgia will see partly sunny skies with daytime highs reaching near 86 degrees. Winds remain calm early before shifting out of the west at around 5 mph. The primary weather story for Saturday is the developing risk of precipitation; a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected, with the highest likelihood of rain arriving after 2:00 p.m. Localized downpours could bring brief localized flooding or gusty winds in heavier cells.
Rain chances will persist into Saturday night, remaining at 50 percent under partly cloudy skies. Overnight temperatures will stay warm and humid, dropping to a low around 72 degrees with light, calm winds.
On Sunday, shower and thunderstorm activity will recede slightly, dropping to a 30 percent chance, mainly localized after 5:00 p.m. Skies will turn mostly sunny, allowing high temperatures to climb near 89 degrees. When combined with lingering surface moisture, Sunday’s heat index values are forecast to reach as high as 97 degrees. Light winds will shift out of the northwest at roughly 5 mph by Sunday afternoon. Sunday night will turn partly cloudy with a low near 71 degrees.
As the calendar turns to Monday, high pressure builds over North Georgia, significantly curbing storm activity and allowing temperatures to surge. Mostly sunny conditions will push daytime highs up to near 92 degrees under calm wind conditions. Monday night will remain mostly clear with a warm overnight low of 72 degrees. Tuesday is projected to be the hottest day of the 7-day outlook. Expect mostly sunny skies with high temperatures peaking near 94 degrees. Increased atmospheric instability during the evening brings a modest 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2:00 a.m. Tuesday night will remain partly cloudy, with lows holding around 74 degrees.
By mid-week, conditions normalize slightly, though daytime temperatures will remain firmly in the low 90s across Chattooga County and surrounding Northwest Georgia communities.
While afternoon showers offer brief cooling relief, the combination of upper-80s and mid-90s temperatures alongside elevated heat indices creates elevated risks for heat-related illnesses, especially for outdoor workers, young children, and older adults.
Storm Causes Flooding In Downtown Summerville, Lightning Damages County Communications Tower
A strong thunderstorm Friday afternoon caused flooding in downtown Summerville and damaged Chattooga County’s emergency communications system after lightning struck the county’s communications tower on Taylor’s Ridge.
Summerville City Manager Jason Winters told WZQZ News that the primary flooding occurred along Commerce Street in front of Bryant and Sons Lumber Company. Winters said the flooding was likely caused by a drainage tile beneath the state-owned railroad tracks becoming clogged with debris. He said the city has contacted the state and will work to have the tile cleared.
Meanwhile, Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen told WZQZ News that a lightning strike shortly after 5 p.m. caused major damage to the communications tower used by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, county fire departments and EMS. Allen said service was partially restored by 6 p.m. and was expected to be fully restored before nightfall. He said permanent repairs to the tower are expected to be costly but should be covered by the county’s insurance.
Press Release:
From Chattooga County Government, EMA/E-911
A lightning strike associated with a severe storm this (Friday) afternoon impacted the Chattooga County Public Safety Communications Building, affecting portions of the county’s communications infrastructure.
Emergency communications remain operational, and dispatch services continue to support public safety agencies throughout the county. Personnel are actively working to restore all systems to full functionality.
Currently, there are no unmet public safety needs, and emergency services continue to respond to calls for service.
The public is encouraged to use 911 for emergencies as normal. Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as crews work to complete repairs.
Happening This Evening: Dancing With Our Stars - Chattooga Styler
Dancing With Our Stars – Chattooga Style 2026 is happening this evening at the Chattooga High School Auditorium.
The event will feature local participants taking the stage in a dance competition to benefit CRC Chattooga and its work to fight hunger, feed hope and support families across the community.
Audience members can cheer for their favorite teams, and every dollar donated will count as a vote. Organizers say the event is designed to bring the community together for a night of entertainment while also raising support for local families in need.
The VIP experience begins at 5:30 p.m., with the main show starting at 7 p.m.
Tickets and information on supporting a favorite dancer are available at www.feedchattooga.com.
Free Grief Support Seminar In September
Anyone coping with the loss of a loved one is invited to attend “My Grief Journey,” a free one-day seminar on Saturday, September 12, at Boynton Church of God in Ringgold.
The event will be held from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the church, located at 1956 Three Notch Road, in Ringgold, and lunch will be provided.
The six-hour seminar is designed for people who have experienced the loss of a loved one, as well as those who want to better understand how to help others through the grieving process. Topics will include common emotions associated with grief, such as anxiety, depression, anger, fear, difficulty sleeping and loss of concentration, while offering encouragement and practical guidance for healing.
The seminar will be facilitated by Jimmy Spurling and Neal Brown and is hosted by Boynton Church of God. There is no cost to attend.
Teloga Volunteer Fire Department Reminds Residents 2026 Membership Dues Are Due
The Teloga Volunteer Fire Department is reminding residents that 2026 membership dues are now due and encouraging community members to continue supporting the department’s mission of protecting the Teloga community.
Current members can conveniently pay their dues by placing their payment in the drop box located at the fire department or by stopping by the station on Monday nights after 6 p.m. to meet the firefighters and pay in person.
Residents who are not yet members are encouraged to join. The cost is $150 for the first year, with annual renewals of $50 each year after that.
Volunteer fire departments rely on community support to help provide emergency fire protection and other emergency services. Department officials say every membership helps keep the Teloga community safe.
Santa Special Train Tickets Now On Sale For Holiday Excursions To Summerville
Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Summerville Santa Special excursions through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.
This year’s holiday train rides are scheduled for November 28 and 29, December 5 and 6, and December 11 and 12. Tickets are $24 for everyone age 2 and older.
Passengers will travel to Summerville for a festive holiday experience that includes the Mistletoe Market and a free children’s activity tent. Visitors will also have time to shop, eat and enjoy downtown Summerville.
The Summerville Santa Special has become a popular family tradition, and organizers encourage passengers to reserve their seats early because the rides often sell out.
Tickets are available at www.tvrail.com under Train Rides, Seasonal Special Events, and Summerville Santa Special.
Local Businessman Pleads Guilty In Injury Crash, Receives Probation
The owner of a used car lot in Summerville has pleaded guilty in Chattooga County Superior Court to a serious injury by vehicle charge stemming from a February 2024 traffic crash that left a local woman with significant injuries.
Billy Joe Dooley entered the guilty plea during a hearing before Superior Court Judge Don Thompson. As part of a negotiated plea agreement, Dooley was sentenced under Georgia’s First Offender Act, allowing him to avoid a felony conviction if he successfully completes the terms of his sentence.
Under the agreement, Dooley will serve probation and must comply with several court-ordered conditions. Those conditions include paying restitution to the victim, completing community service, and attending programs aimed at preventing future impaired driving offenses. The court also suspended a separate traffic-related charge connected to the incident.
The crash seriously injured Katie Talley, who sustained multiple injuries requiring extensive medical treatment.
Because the sentence was imposed under Georgia’s First Offender Act, the case may be discharged without a felony conviction if Dooley successfully completes all requirements of his probation. Failure to comply could result in the court revoking First Offender status and entering a conviction.
Search Continues For New Rome-Floyd Development Authority CEO
The Rome-Floyd County Development Authority is continuing its search for a new president and chief executive officer following the departure of Chattooga County native Spencer Hogg.
Hogg was hired by the Development Authority in July 2025 and resigned earlier this year after serving in the position for less than a year. He now serves as chief of staff for U.S. Congressman Clay Fuller, who represents Georgia’s 14th Congressional District.
During a recent meeting, Development Authority members discussed the ongoing search for Hogg’s replacement and compensation for The Chason Group, the executive search firm assisting with the hiring process.
Authority Chairman Jimmy Byars said the firm’s original agreement included a provision that significantly reduced the cost of a second search if the selected candidate did not remain in the position for the agreed-upon period. Because of that provision, the renewed search is being conducted without an additional professional fee, although the authority will still reimburse related expenses.
Byars asked the board to contribute $10,000 toward those expenses as The Chason Group continues recruiting candidates for the position.
The Rome-Floyd County Development Authority has not announced a timeline for selecting its next president and CEO.
Heat To Build Across Northwest Georgia Next Week
While showers and thunderstorms will keep temperatures a little lower through the weekend, much hotter weather is expected to return to northwest Georgia next week.
Highs in Chattooga County are forecast to climb into the lower 90s on Sunday, then reach the middle 90s by Tuesday. Heat index values are expected to top 100 degrees each afternoon, making it feel even hotter.
The National Weather Service says the hottest conditions are expected Monday through Wednesday as high humidity combines with the summer heat. Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear light-colored clothing, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and check on elderly neighbors, children and pets.
While a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms remains in the forecast next week, widespread relief from the heat is not expected.
Arrest Report - Friday - July 24, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, July 24, 2026:
Flood Watch Continues Today As Heavy Rain Threatens Northwest Georgia
A Flood Watch remains in effect through this evening for Chattooga County and much of north and northwest Georgia as rounds of heavy rain and thunderstorms move across the region.
The National Weather Service says repeated showers and thunderstorms along a stalled frontal boundary could produce widespread rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches, with isolated locations receiving more than 5 inches. That could lead to flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas, near creeks and streams, and in locations with poor drainage.
For today, expect showers and thunderstorms throughout the day with a high near 86 degrees. Rain chances are around 80 percent, and some storms could produce heavy downpours with one-half to three-quarters of an inch of rain, with locally higher amounts possible.
Showers and thunderstorms will gradually diminish tonight, although a 60 percent chance of rain remains before 8 p.m. before skies begin to clear. The overnight low will be around 71.
Looking ahead, rain chances decrease over the weekend. Saturday brings only a 30 percent chance of late-day thunderstorms with a high near 86. Sunday will be warmer, reaching around 90 with a 40 percent chance of afternoon storms. Hotter and drier weather returns early next week, with highs climbing into the lower to middle 90s Monday through Thursday and only isolated afternoon thunderstorm chances.
Motorists are urged to never drive through flooded roadways. Even a small amount of moving water can sweep away a vehicle, and conditions can change rapidly during heavy rainfall.
AAA Urges Drivers To Slow Down As Chattooga Students Return To School Today
As students across Chattooga County return to the classroom today, AAA is reminding motorists to use extra caution in school zones and residential neighborhoods where children will be walking, biking and boarding school buses.
The safety reminder comes as part of AAA’s long-running School’s Open – Drive Carefully campaign, which has encouraged safe driving around schools since 1946.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 64% of child pedestrians killed in traffic crashes in 2024 were struck on weekdays, with the greatest risk occurring during the afternoon hours when children are leaving school and heading home.
AAA encourages drivers to reduce their speed in school zones, obey crossing guards and school bus stop laws, eliminate distractions such as cell phones, and remain especially alert for children who may unexpectedly enter the roadway.
Parents are also encouraged to talk with their children about pedestrian safety, including using crosswalks whenever possible, looking both ways before crossing the street, and avoiding distractions while walking.
With thousands of local students returning to class today, transportation officials hope every driver will do their part to ensure a safe start to the new school year.
Georgia Launches New PSA Encouraging Public To Report Human Trafficking
Georgia First Lady Marty Kemp and Georgia Bureau of Investigation Director Chris Hosey have released a new public service announcement encouraging Georgians to help combat human trafficking by using the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
The announcement is part of an ongoing statewide effort to raise awareness and make it easier for the public to report suspicious activity anonymously.
Officials say Georgia remains a major destination for human trafficking because of its international airport and extensive highway system. The free app, available for Apple and Android devices, allows users to anonymously submit tips, photos and information directly to law enforcement 24 hours a day. Anonymous reports can also be made by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477) or through the GBI’s online tip portal.
“As we work to raise awareness about the risks and signs of human trafficking, it’s critical that Georgians know how to report suspicious activity,” First Lady Kemp said. GBI Director Chris Hosey added that the app is “a powerful tool in the fight against human trafficking” and encouraged Georgians to learn the warning signs and report suspicious behavior.
The public can also access free human trafficking awareness training through the Governor’s GRACE Commission to learn how to recognize potential victims and safely report concerns.
Updated List Shows 52 Properties Still Scheduled For Chattooga County Tax Sale
Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton has released an updated list of properties currently scheduled for the county’s August tax sale.
The revised report includes 52 properties for which the outstanding tax bill has not been satisfied. Hampton said some properties that appeared on an earlier list have since been removed because the taxes were paid or payment arrangements were made with the Tax Commissioner’s Office.
The remaining properties are scheduled to be offered at public auction on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, before the Chattooga County Courthouse steps in Summerville. The sale will take place between the legal hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., with payment accepted in cash or certified funds.
The updated notice includes properties with unpaid taxes generally dating from 2021 through 2024. Properties remain subject to removal from the sale if the outstanding tax obligation is resolved before the auction.
The notice states that all properties will be sold as-is and warns prospective buyers that the Tax Commissioner makes no expressed or implied warranty concerning title. Properties may also be subject to recorded covenants, easements, rights-of-way and statutory redemption rights.
Property owners with questions about an account or possible payment arrangements should contact the Chattooga County Tax Commissioner’s Office directly.
Sheriff Clarifies Indicted Woman Was Contract Nurse, Not Jail Employee
Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader is correcting what he says is an inaccurate headline published in this week’s edition of The Summerville News regarding the recent indictment of a woman accused of inappropriate contact with an inmate.
The newspaper’s front-page headline described the defendant as an “Ex-Jailer.” Sheriff Schrader said that characterization is incorrect.
According to the sheriff, the indicted woman was never employed by the Chattooga County Jail or the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office. Instead, she worked as a nurse employed by the private medical provider contracted to provide healthcare services to inmates housed at the jail.
In a public statement, Schrader said he has contacted the newspaper seeking a correction to the headline.
“Nothing is worse to good employees than to be placed in the negative spotlight when reporting is inaccurate,” Schrader said. “To my folks working in the jail, keep up the good work! Also, great job by my Investigators in uncovering, investigating and arresting her.”
The indictment against the nurse remains pending, and, as with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations. She is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Menlo Woman Arrested On Criminal Trespass Charge At Handi Mart
A Menlo woman was arrested earlier this month after allegedly returning to a business from which she had previously been banned.
According to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to the Handi Mart in Menlo at approximately 6:10 a.m. on July 16 in reference to a trespassing complaint.
The store manager told deputies that Kimberly Joy Basham, 55, of Menlo, had been issued a criminal trespass warning and was not allowed on the property. Chattooga County E-911 also advised the responding deputy that Basham had been trespassed from the business and had previously been arrested for violating the warning.
After speaking with the manager, the deputy located Basham in the store parking lot and took her into custody. She was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without incident.
Basham was charged with Criminal Trespass.
Northwest Georgia Unemployment Rate Holds At 3.4% In June
Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate remained at 3.4% in June, although it increased four-tenths of a percentage point from May due to normal seasonal workforce changes, according to the Georgia Department of Labor.
The region’s labor force reached a new all-time high of 460,744 workers, an increase of 882 from the previous month and 7,391 compared to June 2025. Employment totaled 445,054, down 994 over the month but up 7,254 over the past year.
Initial unemployment claims rose to 1,808 in June, an increase of 619 from May but down 57 compared to one year ago.
Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said the month reflects the temporary seasonal changes that typically occur when schools let out for the summer.
“June brings the temporary seasonal changes we see every year as schools let out for the summer, but as Georgia’s workforce continues to grow, our year-over-year trends remain stable,” Holmes said. “Short-term fluctuations are normal in a resilient economy, and the bigger picture is clear: Georgia remains a state where opportunity is within reach, hard work is rewarded, and every Georgian has the chance to build a better life.”
Employers seeking workforce assistance can contact the Georgia Department of Labor online, while unemployment claimants can access benefits through the MyUI Claimant Portal or visit a local GDOL Career Center.
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Calls For Stronger Protections For Specialty Crop Farmers
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper is urging federal trade officials to strengthen protections for American specialty crop producers as negotiations continue over the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Harper recently sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, arguing that Georgia farmers are facing increasing pressure from imported produce grown under different labor, environmental and regulatory standards. He said imports of fresh fruits and vegetables from Mexico have increased by more than 550 percent since 2001, often entering U.S. markets during peak harvest periods and driving down prices for American growers.
According to Harper, specialty crops—including vegetables, blueberries, pecans, greenhouse products and nursery crops—are a vital part of Georgia’s agricultural economy. The Georgia Department of Agriculture says food and fiber industries contribute more than $100 billion annually to the state’s economy and support more than 370,000 jobs. Harper noted that Georgia’s vegetable industry alone generated approximately $1.33 billion in farm gate value in 2023.
Harper said American growers face higher labor costs through the H-2A guest worker program and must comply with stricter environmental, pesticide and food safety regulations than many foreign competitors. He is asking federal officials to consider targeted trade actions that would create a more level playing field for U.S. producers during the ongoing USMCA review.
The commissioner also expressed concerns about food security and national security, citing reports that criminal organizations have infiltrated portions of Mexico’s agricultural supply chain. A third round of USMCA negotiations is taking place this week in Mexico City.
Chattooga County Schools Announces Bus Route Changes And Bridge Detours
The Chattooga County School System is asking parents and students to prepare for several transportation changes as the new school year begins, including bus detours caused by bridge restrictions and repairs.
According to the Chattooga County School System Transportation Department, the Gilreath Mill Bridge in Cloudland is no longer accessible to school buses after the Georgia Department of Transportation reduced the bridge’s weight limit to five tons. As a result, Bus 91 will use a detour around the bridge. Parents should expect possible delays during both morning pickups and afternoon drop-offs.
The Oak Hill Alpine Bridge near Lyerly School has also been closed for repairs. Bus 23-05 will follow an alternate route until the bridge reopens, and transportation officials say delays are possible.
In addition to the bridge-related changes, several bus numbers have been reassigned for the new school year:
- Bus 92 is now Bus 102
- Bus 102 is now Bus 26-14
- Bus 100 is now Bus 26-15
- Bus 72 is now Bus 100
School officials said they appreciate the patience and cooperation of families as drivers adjust to the revised routes. Anyone with questions about bus routes or transportation changes is encouraged to contact the Chattooga County School System Transportation Department at 706-857-3258.