TPD CHIEF RICHARDSON FRAUD CHECK PROBE

 On Thursday August 31, 2023, investigators from the Thomaston Police Department executed four search warrants throughout Upson County and the City of Thomaston in reference to the recent rise in check fraud occurring in Thomaston, Upson County. The Upson County Sheriff’s Office assisted TPD investigators and officers execute the warrants. The four locations were as follows: 600 East Walker Street, 430 Sandy Harvey Road, 140 Avenue G, and 1810 Delray Road. During the searches of the residences substantial evidence of an organized and sophisticated check fraud ring was discovered. Multiple printers used to print checks, computers, debit cards, bank statements, and other check making materials were discovered. All evidence was seized and taken back to the police department. Multiple arrests are pending as this is an active, ongoing investigations.

DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses Awarded to URMC’s Sandy Stevens, RN

Thomaston, GA, August 30, 2023 – Upson Regional Medical Center awarded Sandy Stevens, RN withthe DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. Sandy is a nurse on the Med/Surg Unit at Upson Regional Medical Center.

The DAISY Foundation was established in 1999 by members of the family of Patrick Barnes, a 33-year-old who died of complications related to the auto-immune disease ITP. Patrick’s family came up with the idea for the DAISY Award, as a way to recognize the extraordinary care he and the family received from his nurses throughout his illness. The acronym DAISY stands for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. What began as a thank you from Patrick’s family to nurses has grown into a meaningful recognition program embraced by healthcare organizations around the world.

The nomination received by the daughter of one of Sandy’s patients highlighted the special and personal care that her mother received during her time at Upson Regional. She noted, “Sandy was always on top of everything. She handled everything with patience, understanding, and grace. Sandy showed such professionalism, and her caring attitude, compassion, and knowing just what to do, made the journey so much easier for me and my mother.”

“We are fortunate to employee some of the most caring, and knowledgeable nurses in healthcare at Upson Regional,” shared Upson Regional Medical Center CNO Brandie Kilcrease. “Sandy definitely fits the description of a nurse who puts forth maximum effort every day to ensure her patients and their families feel supported in every way. She is beyond deserving of this recognition.” Nominations for the DAISY Award can be submitted online at urmc.org, or in person at Upson Regional Medical Center.

UPSON County, New EMA Director

UPSON'S TAX DIGEST APPROVED SEZ TAX COMMISSIONER CHASTAIN

  UPSON COUNTY’S 2023 TAX DIGEST HAS BEEN APPROVED BY THE GA DEPT. OF REVENUE. PROPERTY TAX BILLS ARE SCHEDULED TO BE MAILED SEPT. 1ST WITH A DUE DATE OF NOVEMBER 15TH, 2023. PROPERTY TAX PAYMENTS CAN BE MADE AT THE UPSON COUNTY TAG/TAX OFFICE IN PERSON, OVER THE PHONE, OR ON THE UPSON COUNTY WEBSITE UNDER OFFICE OF TAX COMMISSIONER-QUICKLINKS-PAY PROPERTY TAX. REMINDER: ALL 2023 QUALIFIED HOMESTEAD TAXPAYERS WILL RECEIVE A CREDIT THIS YEAR FROM THE STATE OF GA AND THIS CREDIT WILL BE REFLECTED ON THE TAX BILL ITSELF.

Thomaston Man Charged With Murtder

According to Carroll Counties Times-Georgian.com:  Hunter Burns, 19, of Thomaston, Georgia was arrested by the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office for allegedly murdering Andrew Gilland, 54, of Carrollton, Georgia. CCSO Deputy Levi Cavender was initially dispatched to the scene.

According to the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, at around 8:00 p.m. CCSO deputies were dispatched to a residence on Oak Grove Road due to the discovery of a body. The body was the homeowner, Gilland, who was deceased.

 An investigation was conducted which found that Gilland was shot multiple times while he was inside of his home. The investigation also led to investigators learning about Burns who would visit the home and work as a handy-man for Gilland. 

 

Investigators discovered that Burns was at the residence on Sunday, Aug. 20, 2023 and they were able to track him at his home in Thomaston, Georgia. Investigators questioned Burns about the incident to which he allegedly confessed to being responsible for the death of Gilland. Burns informed investigators that there was a confrontation between the two that began with a quarrel about money. 

 

Burns was arrested and brought back to the Carroll County Jail where he was charged with the murder of Gilland.

CONTESTED RACE FOR THOMASTON MAYOR

 THERE  WILL  BE  A  CONTESTED  MAYOR'S  RACE  IN  THE  CITY  OF  THOMASTON  NOV.  7TH  MUNICIPAL  ELECTION.  INCUMBENT  MAYOR  JOHN  DAVID ," J.D."  STALLINGS  QUALIFIED  FRIDAY  AND  BEFORE  THE  4;30PM  DEADLINE MONEIKA  IVEY ALSO   QUALFIED  FOR  THE  MAYOR'S  POST.  INCUMBENT  COUNCIL  MEMBERS  JEFF  MIDDLEBROOKS  AND  LAKEITHA  REEVES  ALSO  QUALIFIED  WITHOUT  OPPOSITION  FOR  FOUR  YEAR  TERMS.  

MS. IVEY  REPORTEDLY  QUALIFIED  TO  RUN  AGAINST  MAYOR  PRO  TEM  DOUG  HEAD  TWO  YEARS  AGO  BUT  DROPPED  OUT  OF  THE  RACE. 

MAYOR  STALLINGS  IS  SEEKING  HIS   THIRD    FOUR  YEAR  TERM  AND  TOLD   101  NEWS  HE    URGES    VOTERS  TO  LOOK  AT  WHAT'S  BEEN  ACCOMPLISHED  IN  HIS   PAST  TWO  TERMS  BY  THE  CITY  HALL  TEAM. 

Thomaston Fire Captain, the late Ed Shiftlet will be recognized by the Ga. Firefighters Assoc, & Ga. Association of Fire Chiefs

Retired Thomaston Fire Captain, the late Ed Shiftlet will be recognized today (Thursday), for his 30 years of service at the annual conference of the  Ga. Firefighters Assoc, & Ga. Association of Fire Chiefs in Augusta. His family was invited to the memorial service. Captain Shiflet was nominated for inclusion in the memorial by the Thomaston Fire Museum Committee .

Upson County Superior Court Guilty Pleas

PLEAS – JUDGE BEN J. MILLER JR., GJC

AUGUST 23, 2023

 

1. 23R0009 CRYSTAL SELPH CT. 1: CRIMINAL TRESPASS: SERVE 129 DAYS IN THE 

COUNTY JAIL.

 

2. 22R0113 CHARLES WILLIAMS CT. 1: POSSESSION OF A SCHEDULE IV CONTROLLED  SUBSTANCE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 2: FLEEING OR ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE A POLICE OFFICER: 12 MONTHS, SERVE 30 DAYS IN THE COUNTY JAIL, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; DEFENSIVE DRIVING COURSE; 40 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE; $1,000 FINE. CT. 3: POSSESSION OF FIREARM BY FIRST OFFENDER PROBATIONER: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 4: POSSESSION OF FIREARM BY FIRST OFFENDER  PROBATIONER: NOLLE PROSEQUI.  CT 5: EXPIRED TAG: 12 MONTHS PROBATION TO RUN CONSECUTIVE TO COUNT 2; $75 FINE. CT. 6: FAILURE TO CHANGE DRIVER’S LICENSE ADDRESS INFORMATION: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

 

3. 23R0036 WALLACE RUMPH CT. 1: THEFT BY SHOPLIFTING: 10 YEARS, SERVE 3 YEARS IN THE STATE PENAL SYSTEM; SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE A THOR APPROVED PROGRAM; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE.

 

4. 22R0315 REGINALD STINSON CT. 1: THEFT BY RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY: 12  MONTHS PROBATION; $500 FINE.

 

5. 22R0363 BRANDON FURLOW CT. 1: AGGRAVATED ASSAULT:10 YEARS, SERVE 73 DAYS IN THE COUNTY JAIL, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; $1,000 FINE; 40 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE. CT. 2: POSSESSION OF FIREARM DURING COMMISSION OF A FELONY: 5 YEARS PROBATION TO RUN CONSECUTIVE TO COUNT 1; $500 FINE; 40 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE.

THOMASTON POLICE HAD A BUSY WED. AM

 The Thomaston Police Department has assisted three separate Law Enforcement Agencies execute arrest and search warrants this afternoon in various locations.  None of which involve Thomaston cases.

1.  Thomaston PD SRT (Special Response Team) members assisted Carrolton Co. SO with the execution of an arrest warrant and search warrant at 404 E. Thompson Street.  Several subjects were detained without incident.  Spalding County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team also assisted.  The case is related to an active homicide investigation that occurred in Carrolton County. 
2. Thomaston PD Patrol officers assisted the GBI with the execution of a search warrant at 256 R St. NW.  This case is unrelated to any TPD cases.  We just assisted for security purposes.   Once the scene was secured the house was turned over to the GBI.   This is an active investigation. 
3. Thomaston PD Patrol officers assisted GSP execute an arrest warrant at 98 2^nd Street.  That scene has been cleared. 

 

All three of these cases are independent of each other and none of them involve cases being investigated by the Thomaston Police Department.  We were just assisting.  All scenes are secured or cleared at this time.  I would refer you to the respected agencies for additional comments regarding their cases. 

 

Michael Richardson

Chief of Police

Thomaston Police Department

Office:  706-647-5455  Cell:  678-603-7834

mrichardson@cityofthomaston.com

 

WCGB and ULHS Recognize Student Achievement

Upson-Lee High School and West Central Georgia Bank, a Partner In Education with the Thomaston-Upson School System, have proudly recognized GOAL Card recipients. These sophomores, juniors, and seniors earned a grade of “A” at ULHS in every course during the second semester of the 2022-2023 school year. (Freshmen are not eligible for the West Central GA Bank GOAL Card until they have completed one full semester at Upson-Lee High School.)

Now starting its 32nd year, the West Central Georgia Bank GOAL Card program was implemented in support of the new Thomaston-Upson School System and in support of academic achievement for all Upson-Lee High School students. West Central Georgia Bank provides these all “A” students with a student identification GOAL card, which allows them free admission to all ULHS regular home athletic events for an entire semester.

 

ULHS Principal Mr. Ricky English stated, “The administrators, faculty, and staff at Upson-Lee High School would like to thank Mr. Eddie Rogers for his continued support of this important educational achievement program. The West Central Georgia Bank GOAL Card is the longest running recognition program in the Thomaston-Upson School System, having been implemented in 1992, the year that Upson-Lee High School opened its doors. I want to congratulate these young people for their outstanding academic accomplishments.”

 

In addition to free admission to ULHS athletic events, GOAL Card holders receive special offers and/or discounts from a variety of local businesses, which are printed on the back of the GOAL Card. West Central Georgia Bank and ULHS would like to thank these businesses for their participation in the GOAL program and for their commitment to quality education in our local public school system: Aviano’s, Belk of Thomaston, French Kiss Boutique, Game Castle, Hometown Nutrition, La Fiesta, Lilly Jane Boutique, Mac’s Grill, Serendipity, Slices Pizzeria, The Apple Cart Bakery & Market, The Country Cupboard, The Pie, Tire & Auto Masters Inc., and Wireless Connections.

 

Congratulations to the following all A students:

 

10th Grade Recipients: 

Carsen Barfield, Sarah Bennett, Avery Beverly, Luke Brundidge, Aubrey Butler, Christian Carter, Kiana Carter, Sydney Carthon, Lillian Casteel, Sydney Casteel, Shyanne Cleveland, Presleigh Conway, Amiya Cromer, Anna Dean, Aisha Derico, Jakobe Franklin, Eli Fry, Reuben Fry, Boston Fulcher, Ma'Lia Gibson, Carlee Green, Avery Greer, Jonas Hamlett, Heather Jackson, Alanna Kelso, Krissa Lewis, Karen Lopez-Roblero, Dakota Martin, Jadyn Martin, Chloe McGuire,, Jermaine Mealy, Jillian Mobley, Brianna Montano, Brody Moss, Aisha Mugisha, Ashrmainé Neal, Audrey Norris, William Peacock, Krysten Peoples, Christopher Peppers, Wyatt Pettis, Colton Price, Morgan Reed, Kameron Rivera, Taylor Rogers, Christopher Rosario, Jordy Ruiz, Avery Salter, Shelby Salter, Elisa Sanchez, Ethan Scogin, Gage Smiley, Hayden Smith, Tanner Smith, Dakota Stanley, Sydney Thompson, Aiden Tindell, David Ventura, Tani Waller, Nicholas Wells, Kinsley Woodard

 

11th Grade Recipients:

Ryan Anglin, Lily Baity, Tyler Braswell, Dustin Brooks, Dh'King Brown, Colton Cagle, Fiona Chambers, Georgia Clark, Izabelle Craven, Alexis Creamer, April Cummings, Evie Daniel, Kiona Daniel, Aiden Daniely, Carlee Dover, Noah DuBose, Kaden Duke, Addison Ellington, Landry English, Kylie Gooden, Lexi Greene, Raymond Greenlees, Jacy Harrell, Kalisha Harvey, Ava Hemphill, Gregory Hughley, Brodee Hurt, Ava Jaudon, Kadence Johnson, Nytraevion Jones, De'Asiah Kendall, Kameria Kendall, Noah Kendall, Skylar Kirby, Mary Laster, Erika Legg, Kit Logan, Valeria Martinez Alejandres, James Mayer, Makenna McBurnett, Athens McGlon, Kenzi Middlebrooks, Trinity Norman, Lauren O'Linger, Ronik Patel, Karsen Pitts, Irish Reedy, Zameer Rivers, Jazmin Ruiz, Adriano Santos, Charity Santos, Francisco Santos, Hope Santos, Tereso Santos, Sha'Niya Searcy, Summer-Lillie Simpson, Trynylaca Smith, Abigail Smith-Perez, Maxlee Sollenberger, Anthony Teal, Riley Teal, Ellington Thompson, Abigale Underwood, Alexa Velasco, Brian Ventura, Destiny Vincent, Trey Webb, Grayson Weeks, DeKayla White, Amarah Wilson, Kiersten Wilson-Peoples, Kayden Wisham

 

12th Grade Recipients:

Anna Adams, Chacie Bailey, Dennasia Bellamy, Jackson Blakely, Cutter Bowen, Maia Brown

Madison Brundidge, Jayme Carroll, Tiara Carter, Kamryn Cathcart, Jeremy Clay, Trent Coker, Jack Corley, Nicholas Davis, Kinsleigh Day, Samuel Dean, Jada Dunbar, Shondarius Fambro, Emily Goggins, Avery Gomez, Matthew Gore, Molly Greer, Jaxon Harrison, Bryainterius Hickman, Matthew Hickmon, Teonna Hicks, Ella Hinson, India Jackson, Patrick Jacobs, Lauren Jenkins, Isabelle Kallis, Damani Kenan, Savannah Lane, Natalee McGee, Quaterra McGill, Angel Montfort, Baleigh Moore, Jackson Moore, Jacob Moore, Teonna Moore, Addison Mulling, Lanier Newell, Julian Passmore, Alley Patterson, Madison Patterson, Kameron Peugh, Amberleigh Rampey, Elyn Rechtorovic, Sarah Salter, Jeremiah Searcy, Bryce Sheppard, Joy Smith, James Snider, Taylor Snipes, Roger Sotelo, Cameron Spillers, Lileigh Spraggins, Elizabeth Stewart, Jacori Walker, Jordan Walker, Ellie Watson, Lane Weatherford, Jordan Weed, Benjamin Willis, Nasziaire Wyche

UPSON'S NEW EMA DIRECTOR

  UPSON  COUNTY'S  INTERIM  DIRECTOR  OF  EMERGENCY  MANAGEMENT,  RICHARD  HICKMON,  HAS  BEEN  APPOINTED  FULL  TIME  DIRECTOR. HICKMON,  WHO  ALSO  SERVES  AS  THURSTON  VOLUNTEER  FIRE  DEPARTMENT  CHIEF,  WAS  PRAISED   AND  CONGRATULATED   BY  THE  UPSON COUNTY  BOARD  OF  COMMISSIONERS, AT  TUESDAY'S  MEETING.

Body Found in Meriwether County Identified

Meriwether County Sheriff Chuck Smith reported that his agency has received confirmation of the identity of the human remains found in Meriwether County in December 2022 through forensic testing, FBI Lab.

 

“As was reported by the Meriwether County Sheriff’s Office press release dated December 16, 2022, our investigators acting on a tip responded to a rural portion of Meriwether County, Ga. regarding information related to possible human remains. Once our personnel arrived in the area and began a search, they were able to locate human remains based on the tip provided. We were assisted by the GBI Crime Scene Unit in the recovery and the processing of the scene. The remains were then sent to the GBI Crime Lab. Our personnel who have been assisted by the FBI Columbus Resident Agency early on in a missing person case investigation worked in concert with us to expedite the identification of these remains. The FBI, Columbus Resident Agency obtained from the GBI Crime Lab a portion of the remains to submit to the FBI Crime Lab in Quantico, Virginia.” Sheriff Chuck Smith said.

 

“On August 21, 2023, our personnel along with FBI Agents from the Columbus Resident Agency met with and notified the immediate family members of Olivia Samantha Fowler that the remains recovered in December 2022 were in fact Olivia as they were verified through DNA testing. Olivia Fowler was reported as a missing person to the Meriwether County Sheriff’s Office on August 14, 2021. Our investigation revealed that the last known confirmed sighting of Olivia Fowler was on August 13, 2021, around 10:30 am on Pebblebrook Road. This missing person case has been investigated by us and other supporting agencies, especially the FBI, Columbus Resident Agency. They have been instrumental in assisting our personnel with their resources. This case will now be classified from a missing person case to a death investigation. There is still much evidence to be analyzed and processed.” According to Sheriff Smith.

 

“Although the outcome of the disappearance of Olivia Samantha Fowler is not what any of the family or law enforcement wanted this investigation remains active and on-going. Our focus now is to allow the family to grieve. The family request that they be allowed to properly grieve this recent news and to be supportive of them during this difficult time. The family would like the public to know that Olivia was not only a mother, but a daughter, a sister, a grandchild, and an important member of the Fowler family. This is a difficult time for them now and going forward. Please be respectful of their request.” Sheriff Smith said.

 

If anyone has any information related to this case investigation involving Olivia Samantha Fowler, contact the Meriwether County Sheriff’s Office at (706) 672-6651, main office number (706) 672-4489 or the FBI tip line at 770-216-3000.

 

“The Meriwether County Sheriff’s Office will have no further Comment at this time.”

PIKE CO DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY TABS KYLE FLETCHER EX DIR

 Kel Brannon, Chairman of the Development Authority of Pike County (DAPC), recently announced Kyle Fletcher has been named as Executive Director of the DAPC. According to Brannon, “after a long, exhaustive search, we are excited to have found such a highly qualified Director already working and living in our area.” Fletcher graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Public Relations/Journalism. She is a Georgia Certified Economic Developer and brings years of experience in the arenas of economic development, retail recruitment and workforce development. “I’m excited to join the team at the Development Authority of Pike County”, said Fletcher. She added she’s worked with several of the DAPC board members and partners over the years as a member of West Central Georgia Joint Development Authority (representing Upson County). “The Development Authority Board in Pike recognizes the growth and logistical advantage of their community and have plans in place to capitalize on these assets.” Fletcher continued “the timing was perfect for me and I’m passionate about bringing jobs and investment to Pike County. The DAPC Board and environment are a great fit for me and I’m excited to get started on __________. In her spare time, Fletcher enjoys tennis, pickleball, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

FINAL TOWN HALL ON HOMESTEAD TAX RELIEF TUES

 THE FINAL TOWN HALL MEETING CONCERNING THE HOMESTEAD TAX RELIEF GRANT ALL QUALIFIED HOMESTEAD PROPERTY OWNERS WILL RECEIVE THIS YEAR WILL BE HELD IN YATESVILLE TUESDAY EVENING AT 6:30 PM AT THE SENIOR CENTER. DISCUSSIONS WILL ALSO INCLUDE THE NEW COUNTY HOMESTEAD TAX EXEMPTIONS GOING INTO EFFECT THIS YEAR, SCHOOL TAX EXEMPTIONS, QUALIFYING FOR TAX EXEMPTIONS, AND A QUESTION/ANSWER SESSION REGARDING ANYTHING RELATED TO PROPERTY TAX AND PROPERTY VALUATION. ANYONE WISHING TO GAIN A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF TAX EXEMPTIONS AND PROPERTY VALUATIONS IS HIGHLY ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND.

UPSON'S LT. MAURICE RAINES/GSP AT N.Y. CONFERENCE

LT.  MAURICE  RAINES,  GA.  STATE  PATROL  WAS  CHOSEN  TO  ATTEND A  CONFERENCE  WITH  THE  GOVERNOR'S  HIGHWAY  SAFETY  PROGRAM  IN  NEW  YORK .   THE  UPSON  COUNTIAN  WAS  SELECTED  TO  REPRESENT  THE  SOUTHEAST  REGION  BY  THE   REGION 4  ADMINISTRATOR  OF  THE  NATIONAL  HIGHWAY  TRANSPORTATION  SAFETY   ADMINISTRATION,  REPRESENTING  FIVE  SOUTHEASTERN  STATES  ON  WAYS  TO  REDUCE  SPEED  AND  DISTRACTED  DRIVING.

ANN  CARLSON,  ACTING  ADMINISTRATOR, COMMENDED  LT.  RAINES  ON  HIS  LEADERSHIP    AND   PARTNERSHIP  IN  THE PROGRAM,     AND  HE  TOLD   101  NEWS  HE  WAS  HUMBLED  TO  BE CHOSEN  FOR  THE  ASSIGNMENT. AL  ROKER  OF  NBC  NEWS, WAS  GUEST  SPEAKER ON HOW  THE MEDIA  CAN  GET  THE  MESSAGE  OUT  ABOUT  SAFE DRIVING.

Upson County Superior Court Guilty Pleas

PLEAS – JUDGE BEN J. MILLER JR., GJC

AUGUST 21, 2023

 

1. 20R0089 ELIZABETH MANLEY CT. 1: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE: 3 YEARS; 30 DAYS TO SERVE IN THE COUNTY JAIL; FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE; $1,000 FINE. CT. 2: POSSESSION OF DRUG RELATED OBJECTS: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 3: DRUGS NOT IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

 

2. 22R0012 TERRANCE LOCKHART CT. 1: POSSESSION OF FIREARM BY CONVICTED FELON: 5 YEARS PROBATION; $1,000 FINE; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE. CT. 2: IMPROPER BRAKE LIGHTS: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

ACCIDENT IN THOMASTON

 101  NEWS  WAS  TOLD, FOLLOWING  A  SCOOTER  ACCIDENT  ON  NORTH MAIN  STREET,  SUNDAY  AFTERNOON,  THE  THOMASTON  FIRE  DEPARTMENT  SET  UP  A  LANDING  ZONE  FOR  AN  AIR  AMBULANCE  ON  THE   MATTEWS  FIELD  PARK  LOT.  THE  INJURED  SCOOTER  RIDER  WAS  TRANSPORTED  TO  A  TRAUMA  CENTER.

T-U BOE APPROVES 13% TAX HIKE

 THE  THOMASTON-UPSON  BOARD  OF  EDUCATION  APPROVED   THE   2023   MILLAGE  RATE  WITH  A   13%  TAX  INCREASE  AT  A  PUBLIC  HEARING,  THURSDAY,  BUT  NOT  BEFORE  HEARING  FROM  OVER  HALF  A  DOZEN  CITIZENS  WHO  QUESTIONED  IT.  BOE  MEMBER  SHELIA  HALL  CAST  THE  ONLY   N0   VOTE  AGAINST  THE  MILLAGE  RATE.

AMONG  THE  CITIZENS  WHO  CHALLENGED  THE  BOE  FINANCIES--PASTOR  CLAUDE  TURNER,  TERESA  COMPTON,  MALCOLM  NEAL,  ERIC  BERGMAN,  TODD  WILLIS,  WENDY  FALLIN,  AND  RAYMOND GALLOWAY  WHO  HAD    ATTENDED  ALL  THREE  PUBLIC  HEARINGS.

GUILTY PLEA IN AN UPSON MURDER CASE

 IN  UPSON  SUPERIOR  COURT,  THURSDAY,   CODY  HARSHBARGER,  AGE 25,  ENTERED  AN  ALFORD  PLEA  TO   FELONY  MURDER  AND  WAS  SENTENCED  TO  LIFE  WITH  THE  POSSIBILITY  OF  PAROLE.

HARSHBARGER  WAS  CHARGED  WITH THE  DEATH  OF  A  COLUMBUS  WOMAN,  JULIE  MILNER,  AGE  63    AFTER  HE   RAN  OVER  HER  WITH  HER  CAR ,  ON  MANLEY  ROAD   AND  SHE  DIED   17  DAYS  LATER.  ASSISTANT  D.A.  ASHTON  JORDAN  SAID   HARSHBARGER  STRANGLED  MILNER'S  COMPANION  CHRISTA  CLARK,  AGE  41  WHO HAD  CONTACTED  HIM   ON  HIS  PHONE   ABOUT  SEX  FOR  HIRE. HOWEVER,  HARSHBARGER  PLANNED  TO  ROB  THEM,  STOLE    THEIR  CAR  AND  FLED  TO  PIKE  COUNTY,  CRASHED  THE  CAR  AND  WAS  ARRESTED  MONTHS  LATER  IN  GWINNETT  COUNTY.  THE  TRIO  WAS  DESCRIBED  AS  SMOKING  CRACK  COCAINE  WHILE  THE  EVENT  UNFOLDED  IN  A  SHED  BEHIND  A  MOBILE HOME.

A.D. JORDAN TOLD  US   IN  AN  ALFORD  PLEA,  CALLED  A  BEST  INTEREST  PLEA,  THE  DEFENDANT  DOES  NOT  ADMIT  GUILT  BUT  KNOWLEDGES   HE   WOULD  HAVE  BEEN  CONVICTED AT  TRIAL.  

TPD SEZ SUSPECT APPARENTLY LIVING IN A STORAGE UNIT

 On August 16, 2023 at 0839 hours patrol was dispatched to Pack Rat Storage @ 113 Crawley St, in reference to someone staying in one of the empty storage units. Upon arrival they made contact with the property manager, the manager then showed them Unit #78. This unit had numerous amounts of miscellaneous items scattered around the unit and it appeared that someone had been staying in the unit due to open food and bags of trash in the unit. The property manager advised patrol units that another renter called her that morning stating he had seen a white male sitting in a chair in the unit smoking a cigarette.

 

Inv. Katherine Farr responded to the call along with patrol units on this date due to other open cases regarding units being broken into at Pack Rat Storage. Upon viewing Unit #78 Inv. Farr was able to identify some of the items in the unit as being possible stolen items that had been reported.

 

While patrol assisted the property manager in checking other vacant units, a white male was found occupying vacant unit #147. The white male was identified as Brian House. Mr. House was previously criminally trespassed from this property and had no reason to be there. Mr. House was placed under arrest pending charges and was transported to Upson County Detention Center. Upon Investigations processing unit #147 items were found that appeared to be the same type of items from Unit #78 as well as tools that could be used to commit the crime of burglary.

 

Investigations processed both units #78 and #147, upon doing so numerous items were able to be confirmed as stolen items from other storage units on the property. This case is still open and ongoing with the number of items in unit #78 we are still trying to locate owners of items.

 

Brian House has currently been charged with Criminal Trespass, Burglary 2nd Degree and Possession of tools for commission of a crime.

 

 

Inv. Pete Spahn

Criminal Investigations Division

Thomaston Police Department

(706) 741-0926

pspahn@cityofthomaston.com

 

Upson County Superior Court Guilty Pleas

PLEAS – JUDGE BEN J. MILLER JR., GJC

AUGUST 17, 2023

1. 22R0104 CODY HARSHBARGER CT. 1: FELONY MURDER: ALFORD PLEA- LIFE  WITH POSSIBSILTY OF PAROLE. CT. 2: FELONY MURDER: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 3: HIJACKING A MOTOR VEHICLE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 4: AGGRAVATED ASSAULT: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 5: CRIMINAL ATTEMPT TO COMMIT A FELONY: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 6: AGGRAVATED BATTERY: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 7: AGGRAVATED ASSAULT: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 8: KIDNAPPING: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 9: THEFT BY TAKING: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 10: THEFT BY TAKING: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 11: THEFT BY TAKING: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

GRIFFIN FIRST UNITED METHODISTS VOTE TO DISAFFILIATE WITH N. GA. CONFERENCE

 GRIFFIN  FIRST  UNITED  METHODIST  CHURCH  COULD  LEARN  AT  THE  ANNUAL  CONFERENCE OF  UNITED  METHODISTS  IN  NOVEMBER  IF  IT  CAN  DISAFFILIATE  FROM   THE  CONFERENCE.  BY  A  5  VOTE  MARGIN  THE   MEMBERSHIP  VOTED  TO  DISAFFILIATE  WITH  440  MEMBERS  VOTING,  TUESDAY.

THE  ANNUAL  CONFERENCE  WILL  BE  HELD  AT  THE  ATHENS  CIVIC  CENTER  NOVEMBER 18TH  AND  GRIFFIN  FIRST  WILL  HAVE  3  VOTING  DELEGATES.  AN  80  YEAR  MEMBER  OF  THE  CHURCH,  RAY  BARRON  TOLD   101  NEWS,  IF  THE  VOTE  GOES  IN  THE  CHURCHES  FAVOR  IT  WILL  OWE  IN  EXCESS  OF   $300,000  TO   THE  CONFERENCE TO  COVER  THE  RETIRED  PASTORS  PENSIONS  BUT   SHOULD  RETAIN  THEIR  $17  MILLION  CAMPUS  CURRENTLY  DEEDED  TO  THE  CONFERENCE.

CLEAR  OF  CONFERENCE  OBLIGATIONS,  GRIFFIN  FIRST  UNITED  METHODIST  COULD  BECOME  AN  INDEPENDANT  CHURCH  OR  MANY  CONSERVATIVE  CONGREGATIONS    HAVE   JOINED  THE    GLOBAL  METHODIST CHURCHES.  

GORDON STATE'S ECONOMIC IMPACT

 BARNESVILLE, Ga. - On Tuesday, Aug. 8, the University System of Georgia (USG) released a report that listed Gordon State College as having contributed more than $120 million to the regional economy and provided 990 jobs in fiscal year (FY) 2022. GSC enrolled more than 3,100 students in FY22. Due to the strategic initiatives embarked upon at Highlander Nation, GSC created 274 on-campus jobs and 716 off-campus jobs. “Gordon State College has strategically invested in the success of our Highlanders by advancing them toward graduation and ultimately leading to their thriving futures. We understand the significant impact our graduates and education partners have on our community and surrounding counties,” said GSC Interim President Donald J. Green. “Both are an invaluable driver of the economy, and their talents will benefit our local region.”

REVIVAL BARNESVILLE CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

 Please join us for revival with Rev. Jeremiah Bolich on Sunday, August 20th at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Monday, August 21st, Tuesday the 22nd, and Wednesday the 23rd at 7 p.m. each night at Barnesville Church of the Nazarene.

Jeremiah Bolich was discharged from the US Marine Corps in June of 1995 and experienced a life-changing encounter with Jesus at a Billy Graham crusade in southern California. He now lives In Watertown, Tennessee and is a traveling evangelist.

Barnesville Church of the Nazarene located at 744 Veterans Parkway in Barnesville. Check out our FB page for more information!

 

Upson County Superior Court Guilty Pleas

PLEAS – JUDGE BEN J. MILLER JR., GJC

AUGUST 16, 2023

 

1. 21R0072 SCOTTY ZELLNER CT. 1: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 2: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE: 10 YEARS, 4 YEARS TO SERVE IN THE STATE PENAL SYSTEM, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE; $1,000 FINE.

 

2. 21R0122 DUSTIN KENNEDY CT. 1: FAILURE TO REGISTER AS SEX OFFENDER: 5 YEARS, SERVE 3 YEARS IN THE STATE PENAL SYSTEM, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; $500 FINE; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE.

 

3. 22R0443 BRANDON SCOTT CT. 1: SALE OF COCAINE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 2: POSSESSION OF COCAINE WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE: 15 YEARS, SERVE 5 YEARS IN THE STATE PENAL SYSTEM, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; $1,500 FINE. CT. 3: POSSESSION OF COCAINE WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 4: POSSESSION OF COCAINE: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 5: DANGEROUS DRUGS- SALE, DISTRIBUTION, POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

 

4. 23R0129 WENDY BURGESS CT. 1: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE: CONDITIONAL DISCHARGE- 8 YEARS PROBATION; 40 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE; $2,000 FINE. CT. 2: POSSESSION OF DRUG RELATED OBJECTS: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 3: DRIVING WHILE LICENSE SUSPENDED: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 4: USE OF LICENSE PPLATE TO CONCEAL IDENTITY: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

 

5. 23R0117 JOANNE DENSON CT. 1: THEFT BY SHOPLIFTING: 12 MONTHS, SERVE 30 DAYS IN THE COUNTY JAIL, FOLLOWED BY THE  REMAINDER ON PROBATION; 40 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE.

 

6. 20R0316L JUAN GOMEZ-PENALOZA CT.1: VIOLATION OF RACKETEER INFLUENCED AND CORRUPT ORGANIZATION ACT: 20 YEARS, 10 YEARS TO SERVE IN THE STATE PENAL SYSTEM; FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION; BANISHMENT FROM THE GRIFFIN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT; $2,000 FINE. CT. 2: VIOLATION OF RACKETEER INFLUENCED AND CORRUPT ORGANIZATION ACT: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

 

7. 23R0258B SCOTTY ZELLNER CT. 1: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETMINE WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE: REDUCED- POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE: 6 YEARS, 4 YEARS TO SERVE IN THE STATE PENAL SYSTEM, FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER ON PROBATION TO RUN CONCURRENT WITH CASE #21R0072; $1,000 FINE; 80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE.