Arrest Report - Thursday - June 25, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, June 25, 2026:
Sunny Thursday Ahead Before Weekend Rain Chances Return
Thursday will bring mostly sunny skies to Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, with afternoon temperatures climbing to near 88 degrees. Winds will remain light, becoming south around 5 mph during the day.
Thursday night will be mostly clear and mild, with an overnight low near 69.
Friday will stay mostly sunny for much of the day, but a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms moves in after 2 PM. The high Friday will be near 89. A few storms may linger into Friday evening, with a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 PM. Friday night will be partly cloudy, with a low around 73.
The weekend looks mainly dry and warm. Saturday will be mostly sunny with a high near 90, followed by mostly clear skies Saturday night and a low near 73. Sunday will be mostly sunny and hotter, with a high near 94.
Even hotter weather is expected early next week. Monday and Tuesday will be sunny and hot, with highs near 97 both days. By Wednesday, temperatures could climb to near 98 degrees under sunny skies.
City of Summerville Hiring Full-Time Firefighter
The City of Summerville is accepting applications for the position of full-time firefighter with the Summerville Fire Department.
The department is an ISO Class 3 rated combination fire department that provides fire prevention, emergency medical response, and public education services to the community.
City officials say they are looking for applicants who are ready to serve the public and help protect the Summerville community.
Applications may be completed online through the City of Summerville’s official job opportunities page. Paper applications are also available at Summerville City Hall, located at 120 Georgia Avenue.
For more information, contact Human Resources Director Kim Tucker at 706-859-0900 or visit City Hall Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Railroad Circle Domestic Call Leads To Two Arrests
A domestic disturbance call on June 16 at a residence on Railroad Circle resulted in the arrests of two individuals by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the incident report, deputies responded to the residence shortly after noon and separated the involved parties. During the investigation, deputies reported that April Michelle Shaw, 40, of Summerville, repeatedly refused commands from law enforcement and fled from deputies. The report states Shaw was eventually taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit. She was charged with two counts of Obstruction of Law Enforcement Officers (Misdemeanor) and Disorderly Conduct.
Deputies also arrested Douglas Wayne Payne, 43, who was identified as the other party involved in the disturbance. According to the report, Payne was charged with Disorderly Conduct.
Both individuals were transported to the Chattooga County Jail without further incident.
Domestic Dispute Leads To Summerville Woman's Arrest
A domestic disturbance at a residence on Spring Creek Road resulted in the arrest of a Summerville woman on June 17, according to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Matt Wilson responded to the residence after receiving a report of a possible physical altercation involving family members. According to the incident report, deputies spoke with multiple individuals at the scene regarding an argument that allegedly escalated into a confrontation.
During the investigation, deputies determined that Jessica Ann Delee, 36, became involved in a verbal dispute that led to a disturbance at the residence. The report states that Delee was taken into custody after deputies concluded there was probable cause to charge her.
Delee was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct. She was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without further incident.
Chattooga Amateur Radio Club Invites Public To 2026 Field Day Event
The Chattooga Amateur Radio Club is inviting the public to attend its annual Field Day event June 27-28 at the Senior Center in Summerville.
The event begins Saturday, June 27, at 2 p.m. and continues through Sunday, June 28, at 5 p.m. at the Senior Center, located at 184 Senior Drive in Summerville.
Field Day is a nationwide amateur radio exercise that showcases the capabilities of ham radio operators to establish communications during emergencies and other situations when traditional communication systems may be unavailable.
Organizers say the event is open to everyone, including those with no prior experience in amateur radio. Visitors will have an opportunity to get on the air, learn about obtaining a ham radio license, explore different types of radio equipment and antennas, and see emergency communication operations demonstrated in real time.
The club will also offer a “Get On The Air” station where newcomers can speak with licensed operators and experience amateur radio firsthand.
Field Day is sponsored annually by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) and serves as both a public education event and an emergency preparedness exercise.
For more information, residents can join the club’s Facebook group, “CARC Ham Radio Club.”
Ossoff Helps Pass Bipartisan Bill Targeting Corporate Purchases of Single-Family Homes
U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff says a bipartisan housing bill approved by Congress includes provisions designed to crack down on large corporations buying up single-family homes and driving up housing costs for families in Georgia.
The legislation, known as the 21st Century Road to Housing Act, received overwhelming bipartisan support in both chambers of Congress. The Senate approved the measure by an 85-5 vote, and the House later passed the bill by a 358-32 margin. The legislation is expected to be signed into law by President Donald Trump.
According to Sen. Ossoff’s office, the bill includes a provision he championed to limit large, out-of-state corporations and institutional investors from purchasing single-family homes, a practice that critics say has reduced housing inventory and contributed to rising home prices. Ossoff launched an investigation in 2025 into corporate home purchases across Georgia after concerns that investors were pricing families out of the housing market.
The legislation would restrict large institutional investors from acquiring additional single-family homes once they exceed a specified ownership threshold. Supporters say the measure is intended to help more families compete for homes and increase opportunities for homeownership.
Beyond the corporate ownership restrictions, the housing package includes provisions aimed at increasing the nation’s housing supply, streamlining construction and permitting processes, expanding access to manufactured housing, and reducing regulatory barriers that can contribute to higher housing costs.
“Georgia families urgently need more affordable housing,” Ossoff said after Senate passage of the legislation, emphasizing the bipartisan effort to address housing affordability and expand homeownership opportunities.
Housing affordability has become a growing concern across Georgia, particularly in metro Atlanta and other fast-growing areas where institutional investors have purchased significant numbers of single-family homes in recent years. Supporters of the legislation say the measure represents one of the most significant federal efforts in decades to address housing affordability and limit corporate influence in the single-family housing market.
Berry College Earns National Career Readiness Award
Berry College has received national recognition for its commitment to preparing students for successful careers, earning an honorable mention from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) for career readiness excellence.
College officials said the award recognizes Berry’s distinctive LifeWorks program, which provides students with meaningful paid work experiences and professional development opportunities throughout their college careers. More than 90 percent of Berry students participate in the program, which offers over 1,000 paid student jobs across more than 180 campus departments.
According to Berry College, 85 percent of graduating seniors credit their student work experiences and supervisors with helping them achieve their career goals. The college also reports that 99 percent of graduates have achieved a positive career outcome within six months of graduation for the past six consecutive years.
Dean of Personal and Professional Development Marc Hunsaker said the recognition reflects the college’s efforts to embed career readiness throughout the student experience, while President Sandeep Mazumder noted that the program helps students connect learning with leadership and future career success.
Red Cross Issues Urgent Call for Blood and Platelet Donors
The American Red Cross is urging blood and platelet donors to make appointments now as hospitals work to maintain a reliable blood supply during the busy summer season.
Red Cross officials say the need for blood does not take a vacation, even as many families prepare for summer travel, holiday gatherings, and Independence Day celebrations. Summer schedules, severe weather, and fewer scheduled donations can all affect the availability of lifesaving blood products.
To encourage donations, the Red Cross is partnering with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products for a special Looney Tunes-themed promotion. Everyone who comes to give blood between June 29 and July 12 will receive a classic Red Cross x Looney Tunes T-shirt, while supplies last.
All blood types are needed. Donors can schedule an appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
Eligible donors must generally be in good health, weigh at least 110 pounds, and meet age requirements. Donors are also reminded that they can save time by completing RapidPass online on the day of their donation before arriving at the blood drive.
The American Red Cross supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood and depends on donors, volunteers, and public support to carry out its mission.
AdventHealth to Celebrate Grand Opening of New Cancer Pavilion in Rome
AdventHealth Redmond will celebrate the grand opening and ribbon cutting of its new Cancer Pavilion in Rome on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
The event will take place from 4 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the AdventHealth Cancer Pavilion Rome, located at 641 Braves Boulevard NE in Rome.
The new facility represents a significant investment in expanding access to advanced cancer care services for patients and families throughout Northwest Georgia. According to AdventHealth, the pavilion is designed to provide compassionate, whole-person care while bringing specialized cancer treatment closer to home.
The program will include welcome remarks, special recognitions, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and a prayer of dedication for both the care team and patients.
Following the ceremony, attendees will have the opportunity to tour the new facility and enjoy light refreshments and beverages.
Community members, healthcare partners, and local leaders are invited to join AdventHealth in celebrating this milestone and the expanded cancer care resources now available in the Rome area.
Summerville Residents Reminded to Call 811 Before Digging
Summerville residents planning outdoor projects are being reminded to call 811 before beginning any digging or excavation work.
Whether installing a privacy fence, starting construction, or preparing for a pool project, homeowners and contractors are required by Georgia law to contact Georgia 811 at least three business days before digging begins.
Underground utility lines can include natural gas pipes, water mains, sewer lines, and electric cables. Striking one of those lines can cause service outages, costly repairs, injuries, or dangerous emergency situations.
The Georgia 811 service is free. After a request is submitted, utility companies will mark the approximate location of underground lines using color-coded paint or flags. Anyone digging near marked lines should use caution and hand tools when working within 24 inches of a marked utility.
Residents can contact Georgia 811 by dialing 811, calling 800-282-7411, or visiting Georgia811.com.
Summerville officials encourage everyone to help protect public safety and utility service by remembering one simple rule: call before you dig.
Georgia General Assembly Concludes 2026 Special Session
The Georgia General Assembly adjourned its 2026 special session on Tuesday, June 23, after completing legislative work outlined in Governor Brian Kemp’s special session proclamation.
One of the most significant actions taken during the session was the passage of Senate Bill 3EX, which makes several changes to Georgia’s election laws. The legislation extends the deadline for replacing voting systems that rely on QR codes for ballot tabulation from July 1, 2026, to January 1, 2028. The bill also creates a nine-member Election Equipment Specifications and Standards Committee to develop recommendations for Georgia’s next statewide voting system.
Under the legislation, risk-limiting audits would be expanded to include top-of-the-ballot races, and manual hand recounts for certain statewide contests would be required when election results fall within specified margins.
Lawmakers also finalized House Resolution 3EX, ratifying Governor Kemp’s executive order temporarily suspending Georgia’s motor fuel and diesel fuel taxes.
The House revisited local legislation related to Senate Bill 33, which would have allowed communities to consider homestead tax exemptions funded through a proposed Local Homestead Option Sales Tax. However, the measures failed to receive the constitutional majority required for passage.
In addition to special session business, House members began interim study committee work, including meetings of the House Blue-Ribbon Study Committee on Youth Exposure to Kratom and Retail Available Substances. The committee heard testimony regarding the impact of kratom products on minors and will continue its work throughout the interim period.
State Representative Eddie Lumsden said he will continue participating in study committee meetings and other legislative work ahead of the 2027 regular legislative session, which is scheduled to begin on January 11, 2027.
DeKalb County Hiring Event Set For June 25 In Fort Payne
Job seekers from across Northeast Alabama and Northwest Georgia will have an opportunity to connect with regional employers during the DeKalb County Hiring Event on Thursday, June 25.
The event will be held from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. at the Wills Valley Recreation Center, located at 4420 Godfrey Avenue NE in Fort Payne.
Several employers are expected to participate, including G2, Siemens Energy, Plasman, DeKalb Regional Medical Center, Thrive Outdoor, Ferguson, and others. Organizers say the event is designed to bring employers and prospective employees together in one location, allowing job seekers to learn about available positions and meet directly with hiring representatives.
The hiring event is being presented through a partnership involving the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce, the City of Fort Payne, the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority, Career Connect North Alabama, and AIDT.
Individuals interested in attending are encouraged to pre-register online, though walk-ins may also be welcomed.
Organizers say the event is ideal for those seeking a new career opportunity, exploring different industries, or looking to make connections with employers currently hiring throughout the region.
Arrest Report - Wednesday - June 24, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, June 24, 2026:
Warmer Temperatures Return; Storm Chances Increase by Friday
A stretch of pleasant summer weather will continue across Chattooga County through the remainder of the week before temperatures begin climbing into the 90s this weekend and early next week.
After a clear and comfortable night with lows around 61 degrees, Wednesday will feature mostly sunny skies and a high near 85. Similar conditions are expected Thursday, with abundant sunshine and afternoon temperatures reaching the upper 80s.
The forecast turns hotter heading into the weekend as highs climb to around 90 on Friday and into the lower 90s Saturday. Isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms will be possible beginning Friday, with rain chances remaining relatively low at 20 to 30 percent.
By Sunday and Monday, summer heat will make a strong return to Northwest Georgia. High temperatures are expected to reach the mid-90s Sunday and could approach 97 degrees Monday. While only isolated thunderstorms are forecast, residents spending time outdoors should take precautions against the heat and stay hydrated.
The extended forecast calls for sunny skies and continued hot conditions through at least Tuesday, with highs remaining in the mid to upper 90s.
Woman Turns Over Stolen iPad Recovered By Summerville Police
A stolen Apple iPad reported missing in Tennessee was recovered by the Summerville Police Department after tracking information led officers to a residence on Scoggins Street.
According to a report filed by the Summerville Police Department, officers responded on June 14 after Sarah Trimble of Gadsden, Alabama, reported that her Apple iPad Pro 5 had been stolen from her vehicle while she was in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Trimble told police she was able to track the device using a location service, which indicated the iPad was located at a residence in the 100 block of Scoggins Street in Summerville. She provided officers with identifying information, including the serial number, to confirm the device.
Officer J. Pledger responded to the residence and spoke with occupants there. According to the report, one of the residents, identified as Cassie Marie Patterson, 22, of Summerville, voluntarily surrendered an iPad matching the description of the stolen device.
Police verified the serial number and confirmed the tablet belonged to the victim.
Patterson told officers she had purchased the iPad from an unknown individual at a Chattanooga gas station around 2 a.m. on June 14 for $50, according to the report.
The recovered device, valued at approximately $530, was turned over to law enforcement and later returned to its owner.
Patterson was charged by the Summerville Police Department with Theft By Receiving Property Stolen In Another State.
A supplemental report indicates that the victim later advised police she did not wish to pursue further legal action because of concerns about creating hardship for Patterson’s children. The victim requested only that her property be returned and declined prosecution. Police subsequently cleared and closed the case.
Chattooga County EMA Hosting Community Blood Drive July 13
Residents will have an opportunity to help save lives and support local patients during an upcoming blood drive hosted by the Chattooga County Emergency Management Agency.
The blood drive, conducted in partnership with Blood Assurance, will take place on Monday, July 13, from 12:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Chattooga County EMA Office, located at 170 Farrar Drive in Summerville.
Blood Assurance is encouraging eligible donors to participate in the community event as blood supplies remain critical throughout the summer months. Organizers emphasize that every donation can help local hospitals and patients in need across the region.
As an added incentive, donors who give blood during July will receive a $25 Blood Assurance gift card, which will be emailed following their donation.
Blood Assurance recommends donors:
- Eat a good meal before donating
- Bring a valid photo ID
- Avoid energy drinks before the donation
- Drink extra water to stay hydrated
Appointments can be scheduled by scanning the QR code on the event flyer.
Organizers say the drive is an opportunity for local residents to make a direct impact in their community by helping ensure a safe and reliable blood supply for area hospitals.
“Give Local, Save Local” remains the message of the campaign as Blood Assurance and Chattooga County EMA work together to encourage lifesaving donations.
Scouts And Veterans Retire Hundreds Of American Flags In Chattooga County
Veterans and local scouts came together in Chattooga County to honor the American flag with dignity and respect during a flag retirement ceremony at VFW Post 6688 on Memorial Drive.
The ceremony was held in recognition of Flag Day, which commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States. VFW Post 6688 partnered with Chattooga County Scouts Troop 7 and Pack 38 of Scouting America’s Northwest Georgia Council for the solemn event.
With the help of scouts and veterans, around 500 worn or damaged American flags were properly retired. The flags ranged from small hand-held sizes to large flying colors and had been collected over the past year through drop boxes or given to veterans and scouts.
Scout leaders said the ceremony helps teach young people about duty to God and country, service to others, and respect for the nation’s symbols.
Eagle Scout Alex D. said his favorite part was spending time with veterans.
“My favorite part is probably getting to talk to the veterans and be around and hear their stories and their experiences and see what it means to them,” he said.
“Retiring the flags means a lot to us because veterans served our country and we serve them,” Nicole H. said.
Organizers said the ceremony was also a reminder that American flags should be retired in a dignified way when they are no longer fit for display.
Residents with worn or damaged American flags may place them in local drop boxes at Dowdy Park or Veterans Memorial Park in Trion.
Scouting is a year-round program for youth from kindergarten through age 18, offering hands-on activities that promote character, leadership, confidence, respect, and personal achievement. More information about local scouting programs is available at beascout.org.
Alabama Teen Charged In Highway 48 Drive-By Shooting Investigation
A 17-year-old Alabama resident has been arrested and charged in connection with a drive-by shooting that occurred earlier this month near the Georgia-Alabama state line on Highway 48.
According to Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader, Ricky Paul Hawkins, 17, was arrested on June 11 and charged with drive-by shooting, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.
Investigators said the incident began at RJ’s Mountain Top Store when Hawkins and others traveling with him allegedly approached another customer and asked him to purchase alcohol for them.
Sheriff Schrader said the customer refused the request, leading to a verbal exchange between the parties.
Authorities allege that as the customer was leaving, the suspects drove past his vehicle and a shot was fired, striking the front driver’s side fender area of the victim’s pickup truck.
The victim reportedly saw a muzzle flash but did not immediately realize his vehicle had been struck by a bullet. After arriving home, he discovered a bullet hole in the truck’s quarter panel.
Sheriff Schrader noted that the trajectory of the shot could have resulted in far more serious consequences.
“It was at an angle that if it would have been about 12 to 14 inches higher, it could have easily struck the victim sitting in the driver’s seat,” Schrader said.
Investigators reviewed surveillance footage from the convenience store that reportedly captured interactions between the suspect and the victim prior to the shooting.
The investigation remains ongoing, and Sheriff Schrader said additional charges could be filed against other individuals who were riding in the vehicle with Hawkins at the time of the shooting.
The case also highlights a difference between Georgia and Alabama juvenile justice laws. Schrader noted that while Hawkins is considered a juvenile under Alabama law, he will face adult charges in Georgia.
“This is odd. He is considered a juvenile in Alabama, but an adult here,” Schrader said.
Schrader further stated that Hawkins was reportedly charged in Valley Head, Alabama, a few days after the Highway 48 incident in connection with alleged drug and weapons offenses.
Hawkins remains charged in Chattooga County as investigators continue to review evidence and determine whether additional charges should be brought against others involved in the incident.
Summerville Adopts $29.33 Million Budget With No Tax or Utility Rate Increases
The City of Summerville has approved a balanced budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year that includes no increases to property taxes or utility base rates.
The Summerville City Council unanimously adopted the $29.33 million budget Monday evening for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027.
City Manager Jason Winters told council members the spending plan maintains current service levels while avoiding additional costs for residents.
“There are no proposed rate increases for any of our utility customers and no proposed property taxes,” Winters said during the budget presentation.
Mayor Rickey Hughes emphasized that the budget continues the city’s commitment to maintaining senior citizen discounts while avoiding tax and utility increases.
Highlights of the budget include:
• No increases to water, sewer, or gas base rates
• No city property tax levy
• Senior citizen utility discounts remain in place
• The city workforce includes 84 full-time and 17 part-time employees
• Outstanding debt stands at approximately $6.225 million
• Annual debt service totals roughly $805,000
Winters described the budget as fiscally cautious while still allowing for targeted investments in infrastructure, staffing, and equipment.
The city expects growth in several revenue sources, including franchise taxes, insurance premium taxes, gas authority rebates, sanitation fees, court fines, and Main Street revenues driven by continued downtown events and concerts.
The capital improvement plan relies heavily on grants, ARPA funding, and local sales tax revenues rather than new debt or rate increases. Officials also noted that a new SPLOST cycle is beginning, with the city expecting approximately $950,000 in 2026 for recreation-related projects, including playground improvements and splash pad parking enhancements.
City leaders said the budget balances financial responsibility with continued investment in city services and community amenities.