SHERIFF KILGORE REPORTS A 3 YEAR OLD SHOT HIMSELF

 UPSON  COUNTY  SHERIFF  DAN  KILGORE  SAID  A   THREE-YEAR   OLD  BOY  GOT  HOLD  OF  A   SMALL  HANDGUN  AND  SHOT   HIMSELF  IN  THE  FACE,  THURSDAY  NIGHT  AT 776  WINDSWEEP  FARM ROAD.  HE  WAS  TREATED  AT  THE  URMC  ER,  THEN  TRANSPORTED  TO  SCOTTISH  RITE  CHILDREN'S  HOSPITAL  IN  ATLANTA  AND  SCHEDULED FOR  SURGERY.  SHERIFF  KILGORE  TOLD   101  NEWS  THE  CHILD,  BRYCE  RAYBON,  APPARENTLY  DOES  NOT  HAVE  A LIFE-THREANING  GUNSHOT  WOUND.  HE  SAID  THE  ROUND  APPEARS  TO  HAVE  ENTERED  THE RIGHT  SIDE OF  HIS  FACE  AND  LODGED  IN  HIS  CHEEK,  JUST  UNDER  HIS  EAR.

HIS  PARENTS,  CHASITY  AND  KENNY   RAYBON  WERE  GRILLING  OUT  WITH  HER  BROTHER  AUSTIN  BELL  AT   HIS  HOUSE  AND  SHE  WAS  OUTSIDE  ON  THE  DECK  AND  HEARD  A   LOUD  POP  FROM   INSIDE  THE  RESIDENCE.  AN  OLDER  SON  CAME  RUNNING  OUT  OF  THE  HOUSE  AND  YELLED  BRYCE  HAD  SHOT  HIMSELF.  THE  RAYBON'S  TRANSPORTED  THE  CHILD  TO  THE  E.R.  IN  THEIR PRIVATE VEHICLE.  THE  OWNER  OF  THE  RESIDENCE,  AUSTIN  BELL  TOLD  DEPUTIES  HE  KEEPS  A 380  CALIBER  PISTOL  KELTEC  PISTOL  IN  A  DRAWER  BESIDE  HIS  BED. 

SHERIFF  KILGORE  REPORTED  THAT  THE  BOY  ENTERED  THE BEDROOM   THROUGH  A  CLOSED  DOOR  AND  TOOK  THE  PISTOL  FROM A  CLOSED  DRAWER.  HIS  OFFICE CONFERRED WITH  THE  DISTRICT  ATTORNEY'S  OFFICE  AND  THE  SHERIFF  ADDED  AT  THIS  TIME  NO  CHARGES  ARE  PLANNED  IN  THE  CASE.  

The City of Griffin Hires Interim Chief of Police

City Manager Jessica O’Connor has hired Chief Connie Sampson as Interim Chief of Police of the Griffin, Georgia Police Department. Chief Sampson’s first day on the job will be Wednesday, July 5, 2023. The Interim Chief of Police is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Police Department and the management and direction of a workforce of 83 sworn officers and 17 civilian personnel. Chief Sampson will fill in as Interim Chief in the absence of current Police Chief Mike Yates. 

Chief Connie Sampson

“The Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police was a tremendous resource for us in identifying Chief Sampson as our Interim Chief. Chief Sampson’s experience, leadership, communication skills, and dedication to training make her ideally suited to serve all the citizens of Griffin,” said Jessica O’Connor, City Manager. 

Chief Sampson is a thirty-year law enforcement veteran with extensive knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations as it relates to law enforcement. She has guided and directed accreditation and certification processes in her previous employment that led to achieving the “Triple Crown of Professionalism”. In 2017, Chief Sampson retired from Georgia State University as an Associate Vice President for Critical Infrastructure, Building Security, and Safety, after beginning her career with the university as Police Chief in 1996. Chief Sampson has served in an interim capacity throughout the Southeast at Maryville College, Young Harris College, and Forsyth Tech. She is a University of Georgia graduate, and also holds Masters Degrees in Criminal Justice and Public Administration from Brenau University and Georgia State University, respectively. She currently serves as an adjunct professor in Criminal Justice and Social Science at Piedmont University in Athens, Georgia. 

“I have worked in several different communities and demonstrated success by guiding and directing different groups within the community to achieve a common goal of heightened safety and security for the entire community. I look forward to serving the citizens of Griffin and working with the fine men and women of the Griffin Police Department,” said Chief Sampson. “I am confident that Chief Sampson’s vast experience and knowledge will allow us to fulfill one of the goals of the City of Griffin to improve the quality of life, as our primary responsibility is to those who live, work, visit or otherwise come in contact with our City,” said O’Connor.

Please welcome Mandy Jackson as the new Senior Center Director.

UPSON EMA DIRECTOR MARTHA ANNE MCCARTY RETIRING

 It has been a privilege and a pleasure to serve Upson County and her communities for 10 ½ years as Emergency Management Director. I strived to continue the legacy that Billy Mitcham established with this agency, maintaining and enhancing the level of service to the citizens of Upson County through grant procurements and budget expenditures. Our siren network has grown from 12 to 31, with 2 more awaiting grant awards. Notification of severe weather events now utilizes a number of avenues to get the word out. Personnel have received specialized training, and state of the art equipment has been acquired to make rescue responses easier, quicker and safer. I cannot say enough about the volunteers that make EMA what it is. I could not have accomplished what has been done in the last 10 ½ years without their dedication, support and hard work.

It’s time for a younger generation with new aspirations to take the helm and keep EMA evolving into bigger and better things. I trust that the leaders forthcoming will do just that, and I’ll remain available to assist in any way that I can.

UPDATE ON SPALDING CO MURDER

 On Friday June 23rd, 2023, at approximately 2:40am, Deputies from the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office Uniform Patrol Division responded to the intersection Teamon Road and Church Road in reference to a subject who had been shot. Once on scene, Deputies located a male subject identified as 18 y/o Dallas Johnson who had been shot and had succumbed to his injures. Deputies immediately secured the crime scene and began searching for witnesses. Criminal Investigators, Crime Scene Investigators, and representatives from Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Marie Broder’s Office, responded to the scene and began the investigation into Johnson’s death. Sheriff Darrell Dix, “The information gathered shows that Carmello Miller, Jarvis Ard, Jonathan Morales, and Dallas Johnson, were in the process of breaking into multiple cars in that area. They were fleeing the area on foot from one of the autos that they entered when Miller, who was armed with a handgun, fired his weapon, and Johnson was struck by the round he fired. “After the shooting occurred, Miller, Ard and Morales loaded Johnson into a vehicle and drove him to Ard’s residence on Old Atlanta Road. When they arrived at the residence, 911 was called, but prior to the arrival of any first responders, Miller re-entered the vehicle with Johnson’s body still inside, drove it from the house into the parking lot of a nearby church, where he abandoned Johnson and the car in an effort to draw attention away from the residence. The Deputies and other First Responders found Johnson deceased where he and the car had been left.” “We believe we located the place where the gunshot was fired that struck Johnson, and a shell casing and projectile have been recovered. Investigators also recovered a weapon that is believed to be the one used to shoot Johnson, along with video footage from the area. The evidence we recovered combined with witness statements and video footage corroborates what we learned during the investigation.” The following suspects have been charged in connection with the death of Dallas Johnson and the other crimes: Karmello Miller, 18, of Morrow: - Malice Murder - Felony Murder - Aggravated Assault (4 Counts) - Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime (8 Counts) - Entering an Auto (8 Counts) - Criminal Damage to Property - 1 st Degree - Tampering with Evidence Jonathan Morales 18, of Griffin: -Entering Auto (8 Counts) Jarvis Ard, 18, of Jonesboro, is currently wanted on outstanding warrants for eight (8) counts of Entering an Auto as it relates to this crime. “As of right now, this investigation is still moving forward. Miller, and Morales, are both in custody at the Spalding County Jail and are being held without bond..

Upson County True Bills

 2023 MARCH TERM GRAND JURY

JUNE 27, 2023

TRUE BILL LIST

 

1. BRANDON LEE AIMES CT. 1: AGGRAVATED ASSAULT ON A PEACE  OFFICER CT. 2: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER CT. 3: INTERFERENCE WITH GOVERNMENT PROPERTY CT. 4: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER CT. 5: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER CT. 6: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER CT. 7: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER CT. 8: HIT AND RUN CT. 9: CRIMINAL TRESPASS CT. 10: FAILURE TO WEAR SAFETY BELT

 

2. GAVION MARKEVIS BAKER CT. 1: BURGLARY IN THE FIRST DEGREE  CT. 2: THEFT BY TAKING CT. 3: CRIMINAL TRESPASS- FAMILY VIOLENCE

 

3. GAVION MARKEVIS BAKER CT. 1: FLEEING OR ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE A  POLICE OFFICER CT. 2: CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO PROPERTY IN THE SECOND DEGREE CT. 3: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER CT. 4: RECKLESS CONDUCT CT. 5: DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE (LESS SAFE) (COMBINED INFLUENCE) CT. 6: DRIVING WHILE LICENSE SUSPENDED CT. 7: RECKLESS DRIVING CT. 8: OPERATING A VEHICLE WITHOUT INSURANCE CT. 9: TAG LIGHT VIOLATION

 

4. DALE JOESPH BOYT CT. 1: AGGRAVATED ASSAULT CT. 2: CRUELTY TO CHILDREN 

IN THE THIRD DEGREE 

 

5. JESSIE JARROD CONAWAY CT. 1: AGGRAVATED CHILD MOLESTATION CT. 2: AGGRAVATED CHILD MOLESTATION CT. 3: AGGRAVATED CHILD MOLESTATION CT. 4: CHILD MOLESTATION CT. 5: CHILD MOLESTATION

 

6. TINA MARIE CRENSHAW CT. 1: CRUELTY TO CHILDREN IN THE  FIRST DEGREE

 

7. SHANESSA TIERRA DAVISON CT. 1: INTERFERENCE WITH GOVERNMENT PROPERTY

 

8. SHANESSA TIERRA DAVISON CT. 1: INTERFERENCE WITH GOVERNMENT PROPERTY

 

9. BOBBY GLYNN DEAN CT. 1: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER

 

10. JARVIS MONTE GRANTLING CT. 1: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER CT. 2: POSSESSION OF A SCHEDULE II CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

 

11. XAVIER MAKYA GREEN CT. 1: AGGRAVATED CHILD  MOLESTATION

 

12. DARIEN CANTRELL HARRIS CT. 1: FLEEING OR ATTEMPTING TO  ELUDE A POLICE OFFICER CT. 2: FLEEING OR ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE A POLICE OFFICER CT. 3: FLEEING OR ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE A POLICE OFFICER CT. 4: FLEEING OR ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE A POLICE OFFICER CT. 5: FLEEING OR ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE A POLICE OFFICER CT. 6: CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO PROPERTY IN THE SECOND DEGREE CT. 7: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER CT. 8: RECKLESS DRIVING CT. 9: FAILURE TO MAINTAIN LANE CT. 10: FAILURE TO STOP A STOP SIGN

 

13. DEVIN BLAZE HUCKABY CT. 1: CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO PROPERTY  IN THE SECOND DEGREE

 

14. ANTHONY JUSTIN HUNNICUTT CT. 1: ROBBERY BY FORCE

 

15. ROBERT TIMOTHY ROYAL CT. 1: POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED  SUBSTANCE BY INMATE CT. 2: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE

 

16. NICHOLAS BLAKE WINTERS CT. 1: BURGLARY IN THE SECOND DEGREE  CT. 2: THEFT BY TAKING

 

UPSON/THOMASTON GOVERNMENTS TO SCHEDULE ANOTHER REC TOWN HALL

 THE  UPSON  COUNTY  BOARD  OF  COMMISSIONERS  AND  THOMASTON  MAYOR  AND  COUNCIL  HELD  A  JOINT  TOWN  HALL  MEETING   ON  CITY-COUNTY    RECREATION,   TUESDAY  AT  THE  CIVIC  CENTER,  BUT  PLAN  TO  DO  IT  AGAIN  BECAUSE  THERE  WERE  COMPLAINTS  ABOUT  THE   4;30  STARTING  TIME--AS   SO     MANY  WORKING  FOLK  COULD  NOT  ATTEND.  AT  BEST  THE  MEETING  WAS  LIGHTLY  ATTENDED,  UNLIKE  THE  CROWD  THAT  SHOWED-UP  FOR  A  CITY  COUNCIL  TOWN  HALL ON  REC  SEVERAL  WEEKS  AGO.  MAYOR  J.D.  STALLINGS  AND  MAYOR PRO  TEM  DOUG  HEAD  AGREED    THE   MEETING  TIME      WAS  UNFORTUNATE.

COMMISSION  CHAIRMAN  NORMAN  ALLEN  WHO  PRESIDED , SAID  THE  4;30  TIME  WAS  SET  BECAUSE IT  WAS  THE  ONLY  TIME  HIS  BOARD  COULD  BE  THERE    AND    THEY  WERE  UP   AGAINST  THEIR  REGULAR   MEETING   TIME  OF    6PM.  REC  DIRECTOR  SHAKA  JOHNSON , WHO  HAS  TAKEN  SOME  HEAT  OVER  HER  ALLEGED  ABSENSES  FROM  THE  JOB,  SPOKE  AT  THE  MEETING.  BUT  CITY  COUNCILMAN  JEFF  MIDDLEBROOKS ,  WHO  WAS  DISMISSED  BY  MS.  JOHNSON   AND  HAS  FILED  A  LAW  SUIT  AGAINST  HER  AND  THE  COUNTY-- DID  NOT  ATTEND.

Upson County Superior Court Guilty Pleas

PLEAS – JUDGE RHONDA B. KREUZIGER, GJC

JUNE 27, 2023

 

1. 23R0179 DAKOTA ANTHONY CT. 1: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE: 3 YEARS, 18 MONTHS TO BE SERVED IN THE STATE PENAL SYSTEM, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; COMPLETE A 12 MONTH PROBATION APPROVED DRUG REHAB PROGRAM; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE. 

 

2. 23R0176 BAILEY COKER CT. 1: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE: 3 YEARS PROBATION; SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE RSAT PROGRAM; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE; $500 FINE.

 

3. 23R0177 DOMONIC GEIS CT. 1: VIOLATE FAMILY VIOLENCE ORDER: 12 MONTHS PROBATION TO RUN CONSECUTIVE TO CASE 23R0178; $500.

 

4. 23R0178 DOMONIC GEIS CT. 1: BATTERY, FAMILY VIOLENCE: 12 MONTHS PROBATION; COMPLETE A FAMILY VIOLENCE INTERVENTION PROGRAM; 40 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE; $500 FINE. CT. 2: CRUELTY TO CHILDREN 3 RD DEGREE: 12 MONTHS PROBATION TO RUN CONCURRENT TO COUNT 1. CT. 3: CRUELTY TO CHILDREN 3 RD DEGREE: 12 MONTHS PROBATION TO RUN CONCURRENT TO COUNTS 1 & 2. CT. 4: CRUELTY TO CHILDREN 3 RD DEGREE: 12 MONTHS PROBATION TO RUN CONCURRENT TO COUNTS 1, 2, & 3.

 

5. 23R0021 GEORGE HARGROVE CT. 1: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER: 12 MONTHS PROBATION; $200 FINE. CT. 2: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER: 12 MONTHS PROBATION TO RUN CONCURRENT TO COUNT 1; $200 FINE. CT. 3: PUBLIC DRUNKENNESS: 12 MONTHS PROBATION TO RUN CONCURRENT TO COUNTS 1 & 2; $100 FINE.

 

6. 23R0180 GEORGE HARGROVE CT. 1: BATTERY: 12 MONTHS, SERVE 90 DAYS, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; COMPLETE A FAMILY VIOLENCE INTERVENTION PROGRAM; 40 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE; $500 FINE. CT. 2: CRUELTY TO CHILDREN 3 RD DEGREE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 3: BATTERY, FAMILY VIOLENCE: 12 MONTHS PROBATION TO RUN CONCURRENT TO COUNT 1.

 

7. 23R0181 RODERICK JONES CT. 1: THEFT BY TAKING: 12 MONTHS, SERVE 90 DAYS, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; 40 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE; $250 FINE. CT. 2: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER: 12 MONTHS PROBATION TO RUN CONCURRENT TO COUNT 1; $250 FINE. CT. 3: GIVING FALSE INFORMATION TO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS: 12 MONTHS PROBATION TO RUN CONCURRENT TO COUNTS 1 AND 2. CT. 4: GIVING FALSE INFORMATION TO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 5: GIVING FALSE INFORMATION TO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 6: GIVING FALSE INFORMATION TO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

 

UGA Students take the lead on revitalization of Thomaston

The second project for the City of Thomaston in the University of Georgia’s Connected Resilient Communities (CRC) program brought UGA students and faculty to town to develop strategies for making the square and Thomaston Downtown Entertainment District more pedestrian and retail friendly.

“There’s tremendous opportunity here. With our location and bringing vibrancy and life back to downtown Thomaston, we are excited to be a part of the CRC program and work with UGA students and faculty to continue the revitalization of downtown Thomaston,” said Taylor Smith, Thomaston economic development coordinator and chair of the CRC steering committee.

Thanks to Thomaston’s geography being directly between Atlanta, Columbus and Macon, the economy of the small Central Georgia town is growing. The city is working to make downtown a hub for that growth and has turned to UGA—through the CRC program—to address two specific challenges: pedestrian safety and façade improvements.

The group walks around downtown to observe trucks taking sharp turns in downtown crosswalk areas. Pictured: UGA Engineering student Arthur Taran, UGA engineering professor Stephan Durham, Thomaston Economic Development Coordinator Taylor Smith, Thomaston Public Works Director Kyle McGee, Archway Professional Brittany Standifer, Archway Public Relations Coordinator Baker Owens (Photo by: Shannah Montgomery)

Safety is the top issue because U.S. 19, State Route 36 and State Route 74 pass through the center of town. There have been dozens of accidents over the past few years, with buildings repeatedly damaged when they are clipped by vehicles. This spring, a pedestrian was hit in an intersection and sustained injuries, raising the stakes even higher.

The UGA Archway Partnership, which administers the CRC program, brought in UGA engineering student Arthur Taran and UGA engineering professor Stephan Durham to help address the situation. Taran and Durham visited Thomaston and went to work researching traffic flow and challenges. Taran, under Durham’s advisement, developed a proposal to address the safety issues.

Arthur Taran, UGA College of Engineering student, presents downtown plans to Thomaston officials. (Photo by: Shannah Montgomery)

“There is tremendous value in working in a community on a real problem,” said Durham. “Applying classroom knowledge to a critical issue for a community can be a profound experience for a student and the community receives a tangible benefit they might not otherwise be able to access.”

Taran wanted his plan to be ready for action so he connected with Georgia Department of Transportation and made sure to create plans that meet its standards. GDOT signed off on Taran’s plans, which he presented to at the city commission meeting in May. The commission has agreed to pursue the project.

“It’s one thing to have brick and beds damaged, it’s something else entirely when human lives are at stake,” said Mayor Pro Tem Doug Head. “This project will help us solve that problem. We are deeply appreciative of Arthur and thank you, UGA.”

Taran said he grew tremendously through this project.

“Working with GDOT, how to share ideas and apply my skills, and to do it all while helping a community, what an impact” said Taran. “I also learned that all it takes is one person who really cares, like Taylor, to look for ways to motivate the whole community. I’m glad I was able to be a part of it.”

The second part of the gold CRC project focuses on downtown beautification. Thomaston has established the Façade Grant Program to stimulate investment and exterior building improvements in commercial properties located in the Thomaston Downtown Development Authority (DDA) district. For downtown businesses to tap into this resource, they must provide a plan of work and renderings to the DDA.

The group walks around downtown to look at traffic concerns. Pictured: UGA engineering student Arthur Taran, UGA engineering professor Stephan Durham, Thomaston Economic Development Coordinator Taylor Smith, Thomaston Public Works Director Kyle McGee, Archway Professional Brittany Standifer, Archway Public Relations Coordinator Baker Owens (Photo by: Shannah Montgomery)

UGA College of Environment and Design students are working collaboratively with Thomaston business owners, the DDA and the Historic Preservation Commission to provide quality renderings in alignment with the established vision for downtown Thomaston. These plans can be used by building owners to submit proposals to receive grant funding for the restoration.

Thomaston will receive the gold CRC award for completing these two downtown improvements projects.

CRC communities work with UGA Archway Partnership to develop a resiliency plan by engaging community residents, analyzing local data and completing three projects with the assistance of UGA faculty and students. Communities are recognized at the completion of each project with silver, gold or platinum award.  Upon completion of all three projects, the community will receive the UGA Connected Resilient Community designation.

Thomaston received the silver designation for a housing assessment project completed with students from the College of Family and Consumer Sciences.

UGA’s innovative approach to rural engagement through the Archway Partnership earned the 2022 C. Peter Magrath Community Engagement Scholarship Award from the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. The CRC program helps to broaden that legacy across the academic departments and further bring the resources of the University of Georgia into rural areas.

DA MARIE BRODER REPORTS

 The First Big Case

Every trial lawyer can tell you about their first “big” case. Whether it is a criminal or civil case, it has the following characteristics. You are the attorney with primary responsibility for presenting the case—we call this sitting “first chair.” It is the first case where the outcome bears extraordinary significance to the people involved—think life in prison or a multi-million-dollar verdict. And you are scared to death.

For prosecutors who try felony cases, their first Big Case is most often a murder. Victims have lost a cherished loved one. The Defendant is facing the prospect of spending their life incarcerated. The stakes are life and death. Every time one of my prosecutors steps up for their first Big Case, I share in their anxiety and nervousness. On the one hand, I can empathize with them as it has not been so long ago that I cannot remember the pit in your stomach when you begin an opening argument in such a case. On the other hand, as a boss, you are cautiously optimistic that they will perform well and do their best to bring about a good result. But you are still nervous.

Needless to say, any nervousness I might have had regarding a case recently tried in Upson County was cast aside after the excellent performance of two Assistant District Attorneys.

Two of my ADAs, Audrey Holliday and Jonathan P. Richardson tried their first Big Case last month in Upson County. While I knew they were scared to death, they never showed it and fought hard for Mohammed “Seth” Mohiuddin. Mr. Mohiuddin was stabbed by Shekhard Rao Suryavamsham in the early morning hours of November 1, 2020. The victim and defendant were involved in a perceived business dispute, which ultimately lead the Defendant to stab the victim three times, killing him. In his last words, the victim was able to tell officers and EMTs on the scene who had stabbed him. Within a few hours, Cpt. Snipes from Thomaston Police Department and her team were able to identify the Defendant and collect significant physical evidence against him. After a four-day trial, the jury convicted the Defendant of Malice Murder, Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of a Knife During the Commission of the Crime. The Honorable Ben Miller, Jr. sentenced him to Life in prison.

In addition to being a Big Case involving a loved member of the community, the pressure was on as this was no “slam dunk.” While there was significant physical evidence tying the Defendant to the stabbing, the victim had initially confronted the Defendant and a fist fight had ensued. However, the Defendant brought more than his fists to the fight and chose to take a man’s life. Make no mistake, the law in Georgia does not allow you to engage in a fight, take a break from the fighting, and retrieve an implement of death to use against your former attacker. Self-defense has its limits, and the jury recognized that here.

Once an attorney has tried their first Big Case and they have tried it well, the time to bask in the glory of the result is short-lived. Ms. Holliday and Mr. Richardson have bright futures and I will be trusting them to continue to take on the Big Cases as they protect the citizens of this Circuit

BOND DENIED IN SPALDING CO

 IN  SPALDING  COUNTY  SUPERIOR  COURT  MONDAY,  JUDGE  BENJAMIN  COKER  DENIED  BOND  FOR  TYLER  AND  KRISTA  SCHINDLEY  WHO  ARE  ACCUSED  OF  STARVING  THEIR 10-YEAR  OLD  SON  WHO  WAS  FOUND  WANDERING  THEIR  GRIFFIN  NEIGHBORHOOD  LAST  MONTH  WEIGHING JUST  36  POUNDS.

PROSECUTORS  SAID  IT  APPEARS  FROM  THE  EVIDENCE  THE  COUPLE WANTED  TO  ENSURE  THE  CHILD  WAS  NOT  KNOWN  BY  THE  COMMUNITY   SO  WHEN  HE  DIED  NO  ONE  WOULD  EVEN  KNOW  HE  WAS  GONE.

GORDON SARGENT SELECTED FOR WALKER CUP

 NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Vanderbilt men’s golf student-athlete Gordon Sargent has been selected to represent the United States at the 49th Walker Cup Match it was announced on Thursday.

Sargent—who received an automatic invitation to the squad as the top-rated player in the World Amateur Golf Rankings—will be representing his country for a second time this summer after going 3-0-1 to help the U.S. to a victory at the Arnold Palmer Cup two weeks ago. The Walker Cup will be played at the Old Course in St. Andrews, Scotland, Sept. 2-3 and include 18 singles and eight foursomes matches.

Another Town Hall on Recreation Tuesday

 

UPSON/PIKE DAMAGE AFTER SUNDAY NIGHT STORM

 UPSON  EMA  DIRECTOR  MARTHA  ANNE  MCCARTY   REPORTS    UPSON  COUNTY  HAD  SUNDAY  NIGHT  STORM  DAMAGE ALL  OVER  THE  COUNTY,  UP  TO     20  TREES  DOWN  AND  AT  ONE  POINT  ABOUT     3000   EMC  AND  GA.   POWER  CUSTOMERS  WITHOUT  POWER.  TREES  WERE  DOWN  IN  THE  CITY  OF  THOMASTON  AND  SCATTERED  ABOUT  THE  COUNTY--SHE  SAID.   UPSON  EMC   CEO NEAL  TRICE   REPORTED  MONDAY  MORNING  AT  9;30AM,   49  CUSTOMERS  IN  UPSON  COUNTY  AND   PIKE  STILL  LACKING  SERVICE.  FOUR  EMC   UTILITY  POLES  WERE  DOWNED   ON  CRESCENT  ROAD,  HICKMON  FORK  ROAD   AND  ROLAND  ROAD. 

Two Arrested After Reynolds Police Stop

A routine traffic stop conducted by Corporal Sean Humphrey and Officer Stanton Forsyth of the Reynolds Police Department resulted in the arrest of two individuals with active warrants. The arrests were made after the officers observed a vehicle speeding at 80 MPH in a 60 MPH zone while patrolling the City of Reynolds.

Upon approaching the vehicle and engaging with the driver, Corporal Humphrey detected the odor of marijuana emanating from inside the car. Further investigation revealed that one of the passengers, a 21-year-old from Atlanta, had active warrants for one felony count of Forgery and four misdemeanor counts of forgery, all issued by the Atlanta Police Department. The second passenger, also a 21-year-old from Atlanta, had active warrants for loitering and prowling, issued by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office.

 

Subsequent to the search of the vehicle, the second individual was found to be in possession of THC dab oil, marijuana weighing less than an ounce, and drug-related objects. Both individuals were apprehended based on the warrants from the respective agencies and the additional charges listed, including forgery and drug possession.

Teen Found Dead In Parking Lot Of Spalding County Church

At approximately 2:40am this morning, Spalding County deputies responded to Sunnyside Baptist Church in reference to a gunshot victim being found in the parking lot. Once on scene, Deputies located the victim, who was identified as 18 y/o Dallas Johnson, had been shot and had succumbed to his injuries.

According to Sheriff Darrell Dix, “deputies immediately secured the scene and began searching for witnesses. Investigators from multiple divisions of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office, SCSO Crime Scene Investigators, and representatives from District Attorney Marie Broder’s Office responded to begin the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Johnson’s death.”

“Right now, we have a suspect in custody, and there is no indication that there is any threat to the public regarding this incident. The investigation is on-going and further information will be provided as it progresses.”

Former Spalding Employee Arrested

Alteria Williams, a former employee of the Spalding County Tax Commissioner’s Office, has been arrested on theft and computer crime related charges stemming from an investigation conducted by the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office.

According to Sheriff Darrell Dix, “I was contacted by Spalding County Tax Commissioner Sylvia Hollums about irregularities they had noticed in operations over a period of several months both prior to, and after the first of the year. Once she notified us of the issues, she requested that we temporarily place the investigation on hold for her to review records and rule out any clerical errors that may have been made by staff in light of their recent move to their new office location. The review combined with Williams missing a significant amount of time from work due to illness slowed the investigation. During this period, Mrs. Hollums moved forward with new accounting procedures for her office.”

 

“After the delays were concluded, Mrs. Hollums contacted us again, and an investigator was assigned to assist in getting a clearer picture of what was happening. Working in cooperation with her staff, we quickly discovered that thefts had in fact occurred, began tracking them back, and linked them to Williams.”

“While we were in the middle of investigating the thefts, Mrs. Hollums notified us that a citizen had reached out to her staff regarding a delinquent tax notice he had received. The citizen told her staff that he had paid his taxes in the Tax Commissioner’s Office in cash on May 16, 2023, but still received notice that his taxes had not been paid. The customer returned on May 30, 2023, to pay additional taxes but again was not given a receipt at the time of the transaction. He returned on May 31, 2023, and requested the receipts. According to the citizen each time he visited he went to the same window and the same clerk. The clerk, Alteria Williams, had told him she couldn’t provide them on his previous visits because her printer was broken. During his visit on May 31st, Williams issued him what was later found to be a fraudulent receipt for the transactions.”

“Right now we are looking at everything that may have occurred. Situations where customers who made payments in cash at William’s window were never given receipts, made payments and their accounts not credited, records altered to show lesser amounts paid by the customer, or refunds noted as being given to customers that never

 

really occurred. Any of these situations are possible at this point and that’s what we are looking at as we move forward. ”

 

“Alteria Williams B/F, 27, turned herself in to the Spalding County Jail yesterday, June 22, 2023, and is currently in custody awaiting her first appearance hearing. She has been charged with 2 misdemeanor counts of theft by taking, and 2 felony counts of computer forgery.”

 

“These charges encompass only what we have found up until now, but there is reason to believe that she may have committed additional thefts that will be discovered as we continue the investigation. If that is in fact found to be true, she will face criminal charges for those thefts as well.”

 

“We have recommended to Mrs. Hollums that the Tax Commissioner’s Office seek an independent forensic audit of its records encompassing the entire two years of William’s employment as soon as possible.”

 

“Spalding County Tax Commissioner Sylvia Hollums and her staff have been very cooperative and forthcoming with any information and records we have needed, and there is no indication that thefts have occurred involving any other employees in the Tax Commissioner’s Office.”

GRIFFIN ANNOUNCES DEDICATION OF GPD OFFICER KEVIN JORDAN PUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX

 THE  CITY  OF  GRIFFIN  HAS  ANNOUNCED  THE  BOARD OF  COMMISSIONERS  AND  GRIFFIN  POLICE  DEPARTMENT   IS  INVITING  THE  PUBLIC  TO  DEDICATION  CEREMONIES  FOR  THE  CITY  OF  GRIFFIN  OFFICER  KEVIN  JORDAN  PUBLIC  SAFETY COMPLEX.  THE  DEDICATION  WILL  BE  HELD  THURSDAY  JUNE  29TH  AT   1PM    AT  THE  POLICE  DEPARTMENT  AT   234  NORTH  HILL  STREET.  MAYOR  DOUG  HOLLBERG  ,  POLICE  CAPTAIN  HOMER   DANIEL    AND  MEMBERS  OF  THE JORDAN  FAMILY  WILL  BE  ON  THE PROGRAM. 

VOTE URMC!!!

Upson Regional Medical Center is thrilled to announce that it has been nominated as one of Soliant’s Most Beautiful Hospital candidates.  URMC is the only Georgia hospital in the running for the nation-wide recognition.

Soliant opened nominations for the contest on June 15, 2023, beginning their search to find the hospital in the United States that proves that beauty is more than skin deep.  The characteristics that make a hospital beautiful consist of not only external facades, but also internal qualities that enhance the patient experience.

 

The goal of the nationwide Most Beautiful Hospital Contest is to recognize the hard work that hospitals put forth in order to create a warm and healing environment for their patients, as well as the opportunity to grow and develop for its staff.  

 

According to Upson Regional Medical Center Marketing Director Jessica Hudson, “While we have recently made improvements and additions to our service lines and exterior facade, in my opinion what truly makes our hospital beautiful is the people that we employee and the patients that we serve.  We are fortunate to have leadership in place that encourages development and growth, both internally and externally.  There is not a morning that goes by that patients, visitors, and employees alike are not greeted with a friendly smile and enthusiastic hello when entering our facility. We are comprised of a diverse community which gives URMC a unique hometown feel that you cannot experience in larger hospitals.  We truly care and it shows in our actions and care for our patients.”

 

Voting is now open for the Most Beautiful Hospital Contest through Thursday, July 27, 2023.  Multiple votes may be cast until voting closes.  Please visit https://www.soliant.com/most-beautiful-hospital-contest/vote/ in order to cast your votes.

 

To learn more about Upson Regional Medical Center and the services offered, visit, urmc.org and follow Upson Regional Medical Center on Facebook and Instagram.

Thomaston's Dr. John H. Carter Honored

Dr. John H. Carter receives "The Outstanding Georgia Citizen Award" 

 

Georgia Secretary of State, Brad Raffensperger, awarded Dr. John H. Carter "The Outstanding Georgia Citizen Award."   The award serves as the highest honor given on the state level to any citizen and affords the recipient every courtesy as a Goodwill Ambassador from the state of Georgia in travels to other states and nations beyond the United States. 

 

This recognition was awarded based on Dr. Carter’s advocacy and goodwill contributions to the state of Georgia and the nation. 

 

Georgia State Representative El-Mahdi E. Holly presented Dr. Carter with the honor as part of the Upward Development Corporation’s Juneteenth Celebration.

 

WTGA'S DANNY BISHOP ON THE SEARCH FOR THE TITANIC SUBMERSIBLE

 WTGA'S   DANNY  BISHOP  HAS  LEAD  TOURS  TO   THE  CANADIAN   PROVIDENCE     OF  NEWFOUNDLAND -- THE  LARGEST LAND  MASS  NEAREST  TO  THE   TITANIC  WRECKAGE.  HE'S    CURRENTLY  ENROUTE  TO  NOVA  SCOTIA  WITH  A  TOUR  GROUP  AND  DESCRIBES   THAT  AREA  OF  THE  NORTH  ATLANTIC  KNOWN  FOR  ITS  FOG  AND  ROUGH  SEAS. LISTEN  TO  HIS  COMMENTS  ON  101  NEWS. 

GBI; SUSPECT IN BARNESVILLE SHOOTING FOUND DEAD

 THE  GBI  SAYS  THE  SUSPECTED  SHOOTER  IN  A   DRIVE-BY  SHOOTING  IN  BARNESVILLE  TUESDAY  HAS  BEEN  FOUND  DEAD  IN  ATLANTA  FROM  WHAT  IS  BELIEVED  TO  BE  A  SELF-INFLICTED  GUNSHOT  WOUND.  HE'S  IDENTIFIED  AS  33-YEAR  OLD ERIC  SPRADLEY  OF  BARNESVILLE.   THE  GBI  SAYS  THE  WOMAN  KILLED  WAS,  YASMINE  WRIGHT. ALSO   33 , OF  BARNESVILLE.  ANOTHER  MAN  AND WOMAN   WHO  WERE    WOUNDED, ARE  HOSPITALIZED.  THE  SHOOTING  HAPPENED   NEAR  THE  BARNESVILLE  POLICE  STATION  IN  THE  MILL  STREET  AREA.  PD  OFFICERS  HEARD  THE  GUNSHOTS  AND  RESPONDED.

BRANDY JOHNSON AND CAPT. MONICA SNIPES RECOGNIZED AT CITY HALL

BRANDY  JOHNSON  OF  THE  PUBLIC  WORKS  DEPARTMENT,  A   22  YEAR  CITY  EMPLOYEE , WAS  RECOGNIZED  AS  THE  EMPLOYEE  OF  THE  MONTH  BY  THE  THOMASTON  MAYOR  AND   COUNCIL,  TUESDAY.   THE  COMMANDER  OF  THE  THOMASTON  POLICE  DEPARTMENT  INVESTIGATIONS  DIVISION,  CAPTAIN MONICA  SNIPES  WAS   RECOGNIZED,  TOO.  POLICE  CHIEF  MIKE  RICHARDSON  READ  A  LETTER  FROM  THE  DISTRICT  ATTORNEYS  OFFICE  COMMENDING   CAPTAIN  SNIPES  FOR  HER  ROLE  IN  OBTAINING  A  GUILTY  VERDICT/LIFE  SENTENCE  IN  A  RECENT  MURDER  TRIAL  IN  UPSON  SUPERIOR  COURT.

DA MARIE BRODER REPORTS ON UPSON CO MURDER TRIAL

 MARIE G. BRODER

DISTRICT ATTORNEY

Griffin Judicial Circuit

06/09/23

On Thursday, June 8, 2023, after a four-day jury trial in Upson County, Shekhar Rao Suryavamsham, a 39-year-old man from Thomaston, was found guilty of Malice Murder, Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault and Possession of a Knife During the Commission of a Felony. He was sentenced by the Honorable Ben J. Miller in the Upson County Superior Court to serve life in prison with the possibility of parole for the murder plus five years to serve consecutively to the life sentence for the Possession of a Knife During the Commission of a Felony. The State was represented by Assistant District Attorney Audrey D. Holliday and Jonathan P. Richardson. The Thomaston Police Department, led by Cpt. Monica Snipes, investigated this case.

The case stemmed from Shekhar Suryavamsham having a perceived business dispute with the victim, Mohammed “Seth” Mohiuddin. In the early morning hours of November 1, 2020, Suryavamsham, armed with a knife, which he was not known to carry, and having the intent to harm Mohiuddin, went to the home of Mohiuddin on Crawley Street in Thomaston to confront him about this perceived dispute. Gopichand Pinnaka road with Suryavamsham to Crawley Street. Mohiuddin met Suryavamsham outside of his home and after a brief exchange of words, a fist fight between the two ensued. Within approximately two minutes of this fight, Suryavamsham drew his knife and stabbed Mohiuddin three times, slashed his wrist almost to the bone and caused other lacerations. Suryavamsham immediately drove away from the scene, dropped Pinnaka off at his home and then hid his vehicle behind a vacant house on Greene Street. Mohiuddin was able to make a dying declaration to officers and EMTs on scene about the two men who had come to his home and a witness on scene was able to identify a possible suspect vehicle. Cpt. Snipes and her team were able to identify the suspect vehicle and the Defendant within a few hours. Key evidence in this case was the victim’s blood and DNA on Suryavamsham’s clothing and the victim’s blood and DNA on a folding knife located in the Defendant’s hidden vehicle as well as witness testimony. Seth, a native of India, had resided in this Thomaston for over a decade and was a loved member of this community.

“Preparing for this trial took months and was a amazing team effort. I am grateful to the members of the Thomaston Police Department, ADA Richardson, Victim-Advocates Shirley Reeves and Hannah Kennedy, Investigator Rick Reeves, and Samantha Smith of the District Attorney’s Office for all their hard work and long hours preparing this case for trial.” ADA Holliday stated. She continued by stating, “this community cannot tolerate the actions of individuals like Shekhar Suryavamsham who brings a knife with an intention to harm to a fist fight, and the citizens of Upson County agreed when issuing the guilty verdicts.”

“I echo the sentiments of ADA Holliday. My office will continue to tell those in this Circuit that are inclined to resolve conflict with violence that we will not tolerate it and that we will continuously fight for justice for victims of violent crimes” District Attorney Marie Broder said of the crime. “I am so proud of my team on this case, and my offices will continue to partner with law enforcement to ensure that those that commit violent crimes are held responsible for their actions.

Two people are dead after a double-overdose in Crawford County.

According to Roberta Police Chief Ty Matthews it all started just before 4 p.m. Monday afternoon with a report of an unresponsive person at the Roberta Inn.

 

They found a man and woman dead with two of their little girls with them. The children were OK.

 

The chief says they suspect an accidental fentanyl overdose.

 

The adults are identified as 28-year-old Jason Buchanan and 30-year-old Heather Harris.

 

The GBI is looking into the deaths. It could take months to get the final toxicology results in.

WARRANT ISSUED IN THOMASTON-UPSON SENIOR CENTER PROBE

 THE  GBI  HAS  ISSUED  A  CRIMINAL  WARRANT  IN  THE  INVESTIGATION  INTO  ALLEGED  THEFTS  OF    FOOD  PRODUCTS  AT  THE  THOMASTON-UPSON  COUNTY  SENIOR  CENTER.  UPSON  COUNTY  SHERIFF  DAN  KILGORE  SAID  CHANDLER  STEPHEN  RANOW  OF  THOMASTON,      WAS  ARRESTED  THURSDAY   AND   BOOKED  INTO  THE  UPSON  COUNTY  JAIL  ON  ONE  COUNT  OF  THEFT  BY  TAKING  AND  RELEASED  ON  BOND.  THE  GBI  SAID  RANOW  WAS  REGIONAL  SALES  CONSULTANT  FOR  SYSCO  FOOD  CORPORATION , SUPPLIER  OF  FOOD PRODUCTS  FOR  THE  SENIOR  CENTER,  AND  HANDLED  ONLINE  FOOD  ORDERS  .

ACCORDING  TO  THE  WARRANT  BETWEEN   JANUARY   2022  AND  JANUARY  2023,  RANOW  ALLEGEDLY   STOLE   OVER  $62,600  IN   SENIOR  CENTER   FOOD  PRODUCTS    AND   CONVERTED   THEM  FOR  PERSONAL   USE.   

WHEN  COUNTY  MANAGER  JASON  TINSLEY  GOT  WIND OF  DISCREPANCIES  IN  FOOD  PRODUCT ORDERS  ,  HE  CONTACTED  SHERIFF  KILGORE  WHO  ENLISTED  THE     GBI  TO  INVESTIGATE  AND  LONG-TIME  SENIOR  CENTER  DIRECTOR  DONNA  AUTH  RESIGNED. 

STEVE HARVEY'S MENTORING PROGRAM UNDERWAY

 THE  STEVE  HARVEY  MENTORING  PROGRAM  CREATED  BY  THE   STEVE  AND  MAJORIE  HARVEY  FOUNDATION   ENDS   SUNDAY  JUNE  18TH  AT  THE   FORMER  ROCK  RANCH  NOW   THE    HARVEY'S   LEGACY  RANCH  IN  UPSON  COUNTY.  200  BOYS   FROM  ALL  CORNERS  OF  THE  U.S.   HAVE  SPENT  THE  WEEK   DISCUSSING    IMPORTANT  TOPICS  INCLUDING  PERSONAL  GROWTH,  LEADERSHIP,  AND  RESPONSIBILITY.  MEGA-MEDIA  STAR  STEVE  HARVEY  FOCUSES  ON  HELPING  YOUNG  MEN  REALIZE  THEIR  POTENTIAL  AND  PREPARE  THEM  FOR  THE  FUTURE. 

The Travon Walker Foundation and Flexworks youth Football camp Friday at Matthews Field

Jack Jags Cheerleaders at Matthews Field

UL is Excepting Registration for The NJROTC Program

The Upson-Lee NJROTC will be conducting a Freshman Orientation / Summer Camp starting on Monday 07/17/2023 thru Thursday 07/20/2023.  The camp will be held at Upson-Lee High School NJROTC facilities. It will start at 8:00 AM and will end at 12 Noon.  Lunch will be provided free of charge. This camp is open to newly arriving Upson-Lee High School freshmen who have an interest in the NJROTC program.  Please contact Upson-Lee NJROTC at (706) 647-6475 for registration information.

Upson County Superior Court Guilty Pleas

PLEAS – JUDGE BEN J. MILLER, JR., GJC

June 15, 2023

 

1. 23R0154 CHRISTINE BRUCE CT. 1: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE: 3 YEARS; COMPLETE THE GRIFFIN JUDICIAL DRUG COURT PROGRAM; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE. CT. 2: DRIVING WITHOUT LICENSE: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

 

2. 23R0039 MICHAEL COLBURN CT. 1: SIMPLE BATTERY: 12 MONTHS PROBATION; 48 HOURS TO SERVE IN THE COUNTY JAIL; 40 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE; $500 FINE.

 

3. 23R0006 MARTERICK SMITH CT. 1: TAMPERING WITH EVIDENCE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 2: POSSESSION AND USE OF DRUG RELATED OBJECTS: 12 MONTHS TO SERVE IN JAIL. CT. 3: NO TAIL LIGHTS: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

 

4. 22R0365 ZECHARIAH GIVENS CT. 1: TRAFFICKING METHAMPHETAMINE OR AMPHETAMINE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 2: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINT WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE: 20 YEARS, SERVE 8 YEARS IN THE STATE PENAL SYSTEM, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; $2,000 FINE.

 

5. 22R0121 DOUGLAS WALDEN CT. 1: AGGRAVATED ASSAULT:10 YEARS, SERVE 10 DAYS IN THE COUNTY JAIL, THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; $500 FINE; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE. CT. 2: BATTERY, FAMILY VIOLENCE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. 

 

6. 23R0093 WILLIAM MELTON CT. 1: THEFT BY TAKING: ALFORD PLEA- 5 YEARS  PROBATION. CT. 2: FLEEING OR ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE POLICE OFFICER: 8 YEARS, SERVE 1 YEAR IN THE COUNTY JAIL, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; $1,000 FINE; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE. CT. 3: FLEEING OR ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE POLICE OFFICER: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 4: FLEEING OR ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE POLICE OFFICER: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 5: DRIVING WHILE LICENSE SUPENDED: NOLLE  PROSEQUI. CT. 6: RECKLESS DRIVING: 6 MONTHS TO SERVE IN THE COUNTY JAIL. CT. 7: FAILURE TO STOP FOR STOP SIGN: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 8: DISREGARDING TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICE: 12 MONTHS PROBATION TO RUN CONSECUTIVE TO COUNT 1; $500 FINE. CT. 9: FAILURE TO MAINTAIN LANE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 10: IMPROPER PASSING: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 11: DRIVING ON WRONG SIDE OF ROADWAY: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 12: FAILURE TO YIELD RIGHT OF WAY: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 13: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER: 12 MONTHS PROBATION CONSECUTIVE TO COUNT 1; $500 FINE. CT. 14: OBSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICER: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

 

7. 22R0295 WILLIAM HUBBARD CT. 1: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE: 15 YEARS, SERVE 2 YEARS IN JAIL, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; BANNISHED FROM UPSON COUNTY; $1,000 FINE; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE.

 

8. 23R0142 NICHOLAS JOHNSON CT. 1: TERRORISTIC THREATS: FIRST OFFENDER- 5 YEARS SERVE 60 DAYS IN THE COUNTY JAIL, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; $250 FINE; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE.

 

9. 23R0038 JESSICA CLARK CT. 1: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE: FIRST OFFENDER- 15 YEARS, SERVE 60 DAYS IN THE COUNTY JAIL, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE; $1,000 FINE. CT. 2: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 3: FAILURE TO REPORT ACCIDENT: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 4: FAILURE TO MAINTAIN LANE: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

GSP HAS RELEASED THE REPORT ON THE ACCIDENTAL DEATH OF EMBER ADAMS, AGE 3 IN TALBOT CO

 At 2:40pm,  Troopers were dispatched to investigate a UTV crash with a 2-year-old trapped on George Smith RD and Carl Mathis Rd in Talbot Co.  A UTV was traveling east on George Smith RD. Vehicle #1 failed to maintain its lane and went into the southbound shoulder of George Smith Rd. Driver #1 overcorrected, and the UTV overturned onto its passenger side. The female passenger was ejected and trapped underneath the UTV. The passenger succumbed to her injuries at the scene. SCRT D is assisting with the investigation

PIKE CO COUPLE ARRESTED FOR NEGLECT OF A ADULT

On May 19, 2023 deputies from the Pike County Sheriff's Office responded to a report of a person that was unresponsive at 681 Whitfield Walk. Deputies located a male, 40 years of age, in the basement of the residence that was deceased, and was identified as Dennis Robertson. Mr. Robertson was a handicapped person that required special care for his condition and was unable to take care of himself on a daily basis. The interior of the residence was noted by investigators to be extremely filthy and unkempt throughout the residence.  It was determined that Mr. Robertson was primarily kept in the basement of the residence by his caregivers, Michael Hammond and Lauri Parker. The preliminary investigation further revealed that the victim had spent a large amount of his time inside of one room within the basement in which the door had been modified to lock from the outside , thereby containing Mr. Robertson within this particular room. It was apparent to investigators that both Hammond and Parker had neglected their duty to care for Mr. Robertson in a manner required by law.

Both Michael Hammond, 46 years of age, and Lauri Parker, 59 years of age, have been arrested and charged with Neglect of adisabled adult. The investigation currently continues into the death of Mr. Hammond. Investigators are awaiting a full medical examiner's autopsy report to assist in determining if additional charges will be filed against both suspects.

More specific details of the case cannot be revealed at this time as not to jeopardize the integrity of the case, it should be noted that Investigators working this case have deemed it to be one of the worst cases of neglect that they have seen and the living conditions that Mr. Robertson were subjected to described as, horrific

TU Rec Pool Now Open With New Regs

 

Barnesville Man Dead Following Early Morning Head-On Collision

A Barnesville man is dead after an early morning head-on collision in Peach County.

According to Georgia State Troopers, Frederick Walker of Barnesville was headed west on Highway 49 in Peach County when he was believed to cross the center line, hitting an eastbound Volkswagen head-on just before 8:00 on Monday morning.

 

Mr. Walker was taken to a hospital in Macon where he was pronounced dead.

 

This crash is still under investigation.

Upson Regional Medical Center Welcomes Dr. Pillai

Upson Regional Medical Center is proud to welcome Interventional Cardiologist Rajeev Pillai, M.D., to Upson Cardiology. Dr. Pillai will be a valuable addition to the Upson Regional Interventional Cardiac Cath Lab that has been in operation since December 2020, providing the ability to perform procedures to treat more complex heart conditions, including emergency treatment of many heart attacks. 

Dr. Pillai comes to Upson Regional from Chesapeake Regional Healthcare in Virginia where he served as medical director of the PCI program. He is board certified in Internal Medicine, Interventional Cardiology, and Cardiovascular Disease. He has been performing high volume coronary interventional procedures since 2008. Dr. Pillai trained at India’s prestigious Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology and continued his medical training in the United States at the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he was named Chief Resident. Dr. Pillai was awarded fellowships in Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology. His previous successes include establishing successful STEMI programs in Virginia and Pennsylvania, serving as medical director for both programs. Sue Mangum, Upson Regional Medical Center Director of Cardiology and Imaging Services, expressed “Dr. Pillai brings vast knowledge and experience that will serve as a great addition to the Interventional Cath Lab. We are excited to work with him, along with our other cardiology providers, to continue to expand our ability to provide lifesaving services to patients in our community.” 

 

Upson Cardiology is located at 612 W. Gordon St. (Suite C). For appointments, call 706-646-5712.

GRIFFIN PD ANNOUNCE ARREST OF A 3RD FAMILY MEMBER IN CHILD ABUSE CASE

GRIFFIN, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Griffin police say the biological son of a suspect in a child abuse case has been arrested in connection with the case.

Ethan Washburn was arrested in Tennessee on June 6. Washburn is the biological son of Krista Schindley, one of two suspects in a child abuse case.

Schindley and her husband Tyler are accused of abusing their 10-year-old son, withholding food from the boy. When a neighbor found him wandering their neighborhood, the child weighed only 36 pounds.

The Schindleys have been charged with cruelty to children, false imprisonment, battery, criminal attempt to commit a felony and attempted malice murder.

Washburn has been charged with aggravated assault in connection with the case. Griffin police did not clarify what evidence led to the arrest and charges.