Arrest Report - Tuesday - June 2, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, June 2, 2026:
Cooler Air Set To Deliver Rare Early June Break From Heat
After weeks of warm, humid conditions, a refreshing change is arriving across northwest Georgia this week.
A backdoor cold front moving south into the region will bring noticeably cooler temperatures and lower humidity, creating conditions that will feel more like spring than the first week of meteorological summer. Before the cooler air fully settles in, however, a few isolated thunderstorms could develop Tuesday afternoon and evening.
The National Weather Service says the greatest storm coverage is expected farther south across central Georgia, but an isolated thunderstorm remains possible across northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County. Any storm that develops could produce gusty winds, frequent lightning, and brief heavy downpours.
Temperatures Tuesday afternoon are expected to top out near 80 degrees, several degrees cooler than recent days. Winds will shift out of the east as the front pushes through the area.
The bigger story arrives Wednesday morning when some locations across north Georgia could wake up to temperatures in the 50s. Those readings are well below what is typically expected for early June and will provide a comfortable start to the day. Afternoon highs Wednesday are forecast to remain in the upper 70s with sunshine, low humidity, and no significant chance of rain.
The pleasant weather pattern is expected to continue through the remainder of the work week. High pressure settling over the Southeast will keep skies mostly clear while temperatures gradually climb. Highs should reach the lower 80s Thursday before warming into the mid-80s by Friday.
Humidity levels are also expected to remain relatively low through the week, making outdoor activities more comfortable than they have been recently.
Forecasters are keeping an eye on the weekend and early next week as moisture begins returning from the Gulf. While no tropical development is currently expected, increasing moisture could bring a return to the familiar summertime pattern of scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms by Sunday or Monday.
For now, residents can look forward to several days of cooler mornings, pleasant afternoons, and a welcome break from the typical early summer humidity.
Commissioner Addresses Property Appraisal Visits Across Chattooga County
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen has issued a statement addressing questions and concerns from residents regarding property appraisal work currently being conducted throughout the county by GMASS (Georgia Mass Appraisal Solutions & Services).
According to Allen, Georgia law requires county appraisal staff or contracted agents to conduct onsite property visits at least once every three years as part of the state’s uniform property assessment process. The visits are intended to ensure properties are assessed fairly and accurately based on current conditions.
Allen said GMASS employees conducting the visits must follow state-mandated identification procedures while working in neighborhoods across Chattooga County. Those requirements include displaying proper signage on their vehicles, wearing a visible safety vest, and providing official identification upon request.
The commissioner noted that GMASS is currently working in the final year of its original three-year contract with Chattooga County and that the appraisal updates are part of the company’s scheduled responsibilities under that agreement.
Residents who have concerns about an appraisal visit or who believe proper identification procedures were not followed are encouraged to contact the Chattooga County Tax Assessor’s Office at 706-857-0737.
Allen also said residents may contact the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office at 706-857-0701 with questions or concerns.
In his statement, Allen thanked residents for their cooperation and said the county remains committed to maintaining a fair and accurate property assessment system for all Chattooga County property owners.
Donations Needed For Trion And Chattooga Back To School Bash
Organizers are asking for community support as preparations continue for the annual Back to School Bash for Trion and Chattooga students.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 4 until 6 PM, and will include music, free back-to-school haircuts, shaved ice treats, community resources, and support for students preparing for the new school year.
Maisha Ludy with Chattooga Family Connection says donations have been slow so far, and organizers are asking the community to help spread the word and begin collecting supplies sooner rather than later.
Items currently needed include colored pencils, composition notebooks, one-subject notebooks, notebook paper, dividers, highlighters, glue sticks, 3×5 index cards, pencil sharpeners, erasers, pencil pouches, and crayon or coloring boxes.
School supply donations, monetary donations, community partners, and vendors are all being accepted. An Amazon wish list has also been made available to give the community ideas about needed supplies, although donations do not have to be purchased through Amazon.
Community organizations planning to set up a table at the Back to School Bash are asked to contact organizers with the name of their organization, whether they will provide information and resources only, or whether they would like to sponsor and distribute a specific school supply item.
Anyone interested in donating, becoming involved, or learning more can contact Maisha Ludy with Chattooga Family Connection at 706-388-9849 or by email at maishaludy@gmail.com.
Organizers say every donation helps ensure local students are prepared for a successful school year.
Chattooga River Fest Returns To Trion June 13
The Chattooga River Group will host its 5th Annual Chattooga River Fest on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the Trion Recreation Area in Trion. The event will run from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. and is free for the public to attend.
Presented by the Family Crisis Center, the festival celebrates the Chattooga River and outdoor recreation while offering a full day of family-friendly activities, entertainment, food, and educational opportunities.
Festival highlights include a free family-friendly kayak paddle on the river, a free KidZone, an open mic stage, a cornhole tournament, educational demonstrations and talks, exhibitors, and a variety of festival food vendors. Visitors will also have opportunities to purchase kayak raffle tickets and event merchandise at the Chattooga River Group tent.
Live music will cap off the day as The Band Chickamauga takes the stage from 4 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.
The event will be held at the Trion Recreation Area, located at the corner of Park Avenue and Dalton Street. Those using GPS should use 90 Dalton Street, Trion, GA 30753. Organizers say both parking and admission are free.
Registration and fees are required for those wishing to participate in the cornhole tournament or as festival vendors.
Additional information is available at ChattoogaRiverGroup.org and on the Chattooga River Group Facebook page.
Chattooga County Animal Shelter Seeking Part-Time Shelter Assistant
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is now accepting applications for a part-time Shelter Assistant position.
According to the shelter, the position is ideal for someone who loves animals and is not afraid of hard work. Duties include cleaning kennels and shelter areas, feeding and caring for cats and dogs, laundry and general shelter upkeep, and helping maintain a clean and safe environment for the animals.
Applicants must be comfortable working with both cats and dogs, dependable, willing to perform physical cleaning duties, possess a positive attitude and strong work ethic, and be able to pass a drug test.
Hours and pay will be discussed during the interview process.
Those interested in applying have two options. Applications may be completed in person at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter during application hours of 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Applicants may also apply in person at the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.
Officials say the position offers an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of homeless animals while helping care for pets awaiting adoption and placement.
Summerville Man Charged In Armuchee Assault Case
A Summerville man was arrested this week after authorities say he assaulted a 50-year-old woman at the Circle K on Martha Berry Highway in Armuchee.
According to reports, 36-year-old Brandon Michael Montgomery of Summerville allegedly attempted to strike the woman’s vehicle with his own vehicle. Authorities say Montgomery is then accused of attempting to confine the victim inside her vehicle.
Reports further state that Montgomery allegedly placed his arms around the victim’s neck in an attempt to strangle her.
Montgomery has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault and false imprisonment.
Summerville Man Cited On Public Intoxication And Marijuana Charges
A Summerville man was cited by the Summerville Police Department on May 30 following an incident on West Washington Street.
According to citations issued by the Summerville Police Department, Raymond Edward Wood, 57, of Summerville, was charged with public intoxication under a city ordinance and possession of less than one ounce of marijuana.
The citation states officers observed Wood on a public roadway while allegedly under the influence of alcohol. The officer reported indicators including slurred speech and the odor of alcohol, and noted that Wood admitted consuming alcoholic beverages prior to the encounter.
A second citation alleges Wood was found in possession of a plastic bag containing a green leafy substance suspected to be marijuana. According to the report, the substance was located in a pants pocket and weighed approximately 0.34 ounces.
Wood was ordered to appear in Summerville Municipal Court at a later date to answer the charges.
Georgia Gas Prices Continue To Fall As Summer Travel Begins
Georgia drivers are seeing some relief at the pump as gas prices continue to fall across the state.
According to AAA, Georgia’s average price for regular gasoline is now $3.85 per gallon. That is 14 cents lower than last week, but still 10 cents higher than last month and 96 cents higher than this time last year.
AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters said lower crude oil prices, tied in part to reported Iran peace talks, are helping bring prices down. However, she cautioned that global uncertainty could cause prices to shift quickly.
For drivers filling up a standard 15-gallon tank, the current state average means a cost of about $57.75.
Nationally, the average price for gasoline has dropped to $4.33 per gallon, down 18 cents from a week ago.
In Georgia, the most expensive metro markets are Macon at $3.94, Atlanta at $3.90, and Athens at $3.87. The least expensive metro markets are Dalton at $3.71, Albany at $3.63, and Brunswick at $3.60.
Locally, Chattooga County is averaging $3.78 per gallon. Nearby averages include Walker, Floyd, and Gordon counties at $3.72. Across the state line in Alabama, DeKalb County is averaging $3.93, while Cherokee County is at $3.88.
Drivers are encouraged to compare prices, plan trips, combine errands, and use fuel-saving habits as summer travel increases.
Chattooga High Students Represent Georgia At SkillsUSA National Championships In Atlanta
Several Chattooga High School students are representing the State of Georgia this week as they compete against some of the nation’s best career and technical education students at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta.
The Chattooga High Welding Fabrication Team consists of Cooper Hampton, Skyler Ward, and Landon Dawson, who will compete in the Welding Fabrication competition. In addition, Gunner Henderson will compete in Welding, while Corbin Wiggins will represent Georgia in Cabinetmaking.
The students earned the opportunity to advance to nationals after excelling at the state level and are now competing against state champions from across the United States.
The SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference, being held June 1-5 at the Georgia World Congress Center, is considered the premier showcase for career and technical education students. The event brings together more than 19,000 students, instructors, industry professionals, and educators from across the nation. The conference features the SkillsUSA Championships, where more than 6,500 state champions compete in over 100 skilled trades, technical, and leadership contests.
Competitions are designed and judged by industry professionals and test students on real-world skills, technical knowledge, craftsmanship, safety practices, and professionalism. Students also have opportunities to network with employers, industry leaders, and technical education partners from across the country.
The national competition is widely recognized as one of the most prestigious events for students pursuing careers in the skilled trades and technical fields.
WZQZ joins the community in wishing Cooper Hampton, Skyler Ward, Landon Dawson, Gunner Henderson, and Corbin Wiggins the very best of luck as they represent Chattooga High School, Chattooga County, and the State of Georgia on the national stage.
AdventHealth Cardiology Practice Moves From Trion To Summerville
AdventHealth Medical Group Cardiology at Trion has moved to a new location and is now operating as AdventHealth Medical Group Cardiology at Summerville.
The practice began seeing patients at its new location on May 18, 2026, inside AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care & Urgent Care at Summerville. The office is located in the Ingles shopping center at 9777 Rome Boulevard in Summerville.
Patients will continue receiving care from the same trusted providers, cardiologist Himanshu Patel, MD, and Lori Brady, NP-C. The practice’s phone and fax numbers will remain the same.
Scott Hill, vice president of physician enterprise, said AdventHealth is committed to making high-quality, whole-person care convenient and accessible for the communities it serves. Hill said the move allows the cardiology team to continue serving patients in Chattooga County from a new, convenient location.
Patients may schedule appointments or contact the office by calling 706-368-8500.
Arrest Report - Monday - June 1, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, June 1, 2026:
Daily Storm Chances Continue Before Drier, Cooler Weather Arrives
Daily rain and thunderstorm chances will remain in the forecast through Tuesday, with a noticeable shift toward drier and cooler conditions expected by the middle and end of the week.
Forecasters say a Marginal Risk for severe weather remains in place through tonight for parts of north Georgia, including areas that could be impacted by a weakening line of storms moving in from the north. The main concern will be a low-end risk for strong to damaging wind gusts, especially if the storm complex is able to hold together as it moves southward.
For Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia, the day is expected to begin with clouds in place, but some breaks in the cloud cover may develop by late morning or early afternoon. That could allow temperatures to rise into the mid to upper 80s before storms approach later in the day.
The best chance for stronger storms will be across north Georgia, where recent rainfall has left soils wet in many locations. Because of that, even gusty winds from weakening storms could bring down trees or limbs in spots where the ground is already saturated.
The storm system is expected to move generally southward later today and tonight, though forecasters say it may weaken as it reaches the metro Atlanta area and areas farther south. Still, residents across Northwest Georgia should keep an eye on the forecast through the evening, especially if storms develop or hold together longer than expected.
Tuesday will bring cooler temperatures as northeast winds and cloud cover return. Highs are expected to stay mainly in the mid to upper 70s. Rain chances will be higher across central Georgia, while North Georgia, including Chattooga County, should begin trending drier, with rain chances generally staying lower than areas farther south.
A more noticeable pattern change arrives Tuesday night into Wednesday as a front moves through the region. Behind it, a cooler and drier air mass will settle into north and central Georgia. Wednesday morning lows could dip into the 50s across the area, making for an unusually cool start for early June.
By Wednesday afternoon, sunshine should help temperatures rebound into the upper 70s and lower 80s. Dry weather is expected to continue through most of the week, giving residents a break from the repeated rounds of rain and storms.
Temperatures will gradually warm back into the 80s heading into the weekend. The next chance for rain may not arrive until early next week as moisture begins to return to the region.
Two Men Accused Of Stealing Tractors From Rome Assembly Plant
Two men have been arrested on felony theft charges after allegedly stealing tractors and a trailer from TYM North America’s facility on Cedartown Highway in Rome.
According to arrest warrants, 51-year-old Jason Matthew Stewart of Cave Spring and 58-year-old Travis Leslie Patterson of Rome are accused of taking two tractors and a trailer from the facility on May 20.
Authorities said each tractor was valued at $15,000, while the trailer was valued at $1,500.
TYM North America’s Rome operation is part of the company’s agricultural equipment manufacturing and assembly network. The Cedartown Highway facility was previously associated with Branson Tractors before TYM expanded its North American operations, including a multi-million-dollar investment in the Rome location.
Both men were charged with felony theft by taking.
Mitchell Field Lights Up For First Time As Summerville Recreation Upgrades Continue
Photo Credit: Summerville Mayor Rickey Hughes
For the first time in its history, Mitchell Field at Summerville Parks and Recreation is now hosting games under the lights.
Summerville Parks and Recreation announced this past weekend that new Musco Sports Lighting has officially been installed and operational during the Battle at the Big Horn 2026 Tournament.
Parks officials noted that Friday night marked the first time Mitchell Field had ever been illuminated for a ballgame, calling it a major milestone for local athletics and recreation.
The lighting project is part of a larger investment approved by the Summerville City Council to modernize ballfield facilities throughout the city. Council members approved a $735,000 contract with Musco Sports Lighting to replace aging lighting systems at multiple recreation fields, including Mitchell Field, Morgan Field, Dunson Field, and Fairway Field. The project was funded through a combination of financing and SPLOST funds.
According to city officials, the Musco system features energy-efficient LED lighting, advanced scheduling controls, reduced glare, and a 25-year warranty covering parts and labor. Recreation Director Adam Wilson previously described the project as a turnkey upgrade expected to reduce maintenance costs while improving the experience for players and spectators.
Musco Sports Lighting is recognized nationally as a leading provider of sports venue lighting systems and has completed projects ranging from local recreation complexes to major athletic facilities across the country. The company specializes in LED lighting technology designed to improve visibility while reducing energy consumption.
Parks officials say Fairway Ballfield is expected to be the next facility to receive the upgraded lighting system.
Summerville Woman Charged Following Domestic Disturbance Call
A Summerville woman was charged with disorderly conduct following a domestic disturbance investigation on Fourth Street, according to the Summerville Police Department.
Police responded to a residence at 275 Fourth Street on May 27 after receiving a report that a woman was in the complainant’s yard and refusing to leave.
According to the incident report, officers spoke with the complainant, who stated that her brother, John Albert Dozier, and his girlfriend, Audrey Wooten, had been involved in a physical altercation. Officers learned that Wooten had reportedly consumed alcohol before becoming upset and allegedly began damaging items inside a shed located on the property.
The report states that Dozier attempted to stop Wooten from damaging his belongings and tried to restrain her. While officers were investigating the incident, Wooten allegedly remained loud and argumentative and repeatedly interrupted attempts to speak with those involved.
As a result of the investigation, Audrey Wooten was charged with disorderly conduct.
The case was investigated by Officer Julian Smith of the Summerville Police Department.
Georgia Quota Hunt Applications Open Today
Georgia hunters can begin applying today for a variety of quota hunts through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division.
Applications opened June 1 for most quota hunts, including select deer, alligator, waterfowl, dove, turkey, feral hog, and youth hunting opportunities held on Wildlife Management Areas and other state-managed properties across Georgia.
Wildlife officials say quota hunts help provide high-quality hunting experiences while managing wildlife populations, reducing overcrowding, and protecting natural resources.
“Having quota hunts allows us to offer a wide variety of high-quality hunts year after year,” said Tina Johannsen, Assistant Chief of the Game Management Section with the Wildlife Resources Division.
Hunters can apply online through the Go Outdoors Georgia website by selecting the “Quota Hunts” option and following the application instructions. Officials encourage applicants to make sure their email addresses are current in order to receive hunt confirmations, updates, and notifications.
The first application deadline is July 15 for alligator hunts. Dove hunt applications close August 15, while most deer hunt applications, including youth deer hunts, must be submitted by September 1. Youth applicants for youth quota hunts must be 15 years old or younger.
Additional information, hunt details, application deadlines, and selection odds are available through the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division quota hunt system.
Chattooga County Posts Highest Unemployment Rate On Regional Map
New labor force numbers released for Northwest Georgia show Chattooga County with the highest unemployment rate listed on the latest regional map.
According to the data, Chattooga County recorded an unemployment rate of 4.7 percent. That figure was higher than several neighboring counties, including Gordon County at 3.1 percent, Dade and Bartow counties at 3.2 percent, Floyd County at 3.3 percent, and Walker County at 3.4 percent.
Whitfield County reported an unemployment rate of 4.0 percent, while Murray County came in at 3.9 percent.
Across Northwest Georgia overall, the unemployment rate declined six-tenths of a percentage point over the month to 2.7 percent. The rate stood at 2.8 percent one year ago.
The regional labor force decreased by 1,151 over the month but increased by 5,572 over the year to 458,771 workers.
The number of employed residents rose by 1,628 over the month and increased by 5,771 over the year, reaching 446,222 — an all-time high for the region.
State labor officials also reported initial unemployment claims were down by 521 over the month, reflecting continued strength in the regional job market.
While the broader Northwest Georgia region continues to show signs of job growth, Chattooga County’s higher unemployment rate highlights the ongoing need for local workforce development, job training, and employment opportunities close to home.
Economic development leaders across the region continue to point to manufacturing, logistics, construction, healthcare, and industrial growth as key drivers of employment demand. Many employers remain active in hiring workers for skilled trades, transportation, healthcare, warehousing, and manufacturing jobs.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park Announces Summer Junior Ranger Camps
Children ages 6 to 12 will have the opportunity to explore the outdoors and learn valuable nature skills this summer during Junior Ranger Camp at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park.
The park is offering three camp sessions throughout June and July, giving young campers hands-on experiences with park rangers while learning about the natural resources and wildlife found in Northwest Georgia.
Campers will participate in activities including archery instruction, fishing, wildlife education, and outdoor exploration designed to encourage an appreciation for nature and conservation.
The 2026 camp schedule includes:
• June 10-12 (3-Day Camp) – $65 registration fee
• June 22-23 (2-Day Camp) – $45 registration fee
• July 16-17 (2-Day Camp) – $45 registration fee
Each session runs from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. and is open to children ages 6 through 12.
Parents interested in registering their children or obtaining additional information can contact the park at 706-857-0826.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park, located in Chattooga County, is known for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and educational programs that connect visitors with Georgia’s natural heritage.
Chattooga County Health Inspections: Restaurants, Pool Receive High Scores In Late May
The Chattooga County Environmental Health Department has released its latest inspection scores for food service establishments and public swimming facilities for the second half of May 2026.
Three facilities inspected between May 15 and May 31 earned scores of 95 or higher.
Camp Juliette Low at Cloudland received a perfect score of 100 during its swimming pool inspection conducted on May 28.
Dos Maguey’s Mexican Restaurant, located on Commerce Street in Summerville, received a score of 95 during a food service inspection on May 27.
The Chattooga County Nutrition Center on Senior Drive in Summerville earned a perfect score of 100 during its food service inspection on May 20.
The Chattooga County Environmental Health Department reminds residents that complaints regarding food service establishments or tourist accommodations operating in Chattooga County can be reported by calling 706-857-3377.
Inspection Scores:
• Camp Juliette Low (Swimming Pool) – 100
• Dos Maguey’s Mexican Restaurant – 95
• Chattooga County Nutrition Center – 100