STAFF REPORT :::

Juveniles ranging in age from 14 to 17 are suspected in the alleged armed robbery of a 47-year-old woman and her 18-year-old boyfriend.

The incident was reported to the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office Dec. 2, by Julie Marriner and Jeremy Lecompte, who said they were robbed on Patterson Road while walking to the store to buy cigarettes.

“Julie advised that while she was walking in front of 1578 Patterson Road that approximately six subjects robbed her with a gun,” reported Deputy Garrett Deason, who said Marriner described one suspect as a Hispanic male and the others as white males.

“Julie advised that when she tried to walk past them that they hit her hand knocking $60 which was in her hand to the ground…then picked up the money and took off running.”

According to Deason, Marriner said as the juveniles were running away, she noticed one of them was holding a black handgun.

Deason said Marriner reported a taller white male juvenile was the suspect in possession of the firearm.

“Julie also advised that her (sic) and her boyfriend Jeremy were familiar with the subjects and advised that they had issues with them in the past,” Deason said. “Julie advised that all of the subjects involved were approximately between ten and 16 years of age.”

Lecompte reportedly provided Deason with the suspects names, who were subsequently located at different lots in a nearby mobile home park.

The suspects were transported to the Sheriff’s Office for further investigation. They have been identified as two 14-year-old while males, one 15-year-old white male, one 15-year-old black male, one 17-year-old white male and one male of unknown age.

This case remains active.

Photo courtesy of Main Street Players

NORMA RICHARDSON :::
Special contributor to The GRIP

You need go no farther than downtown Griffin to ring in the holiday season with a joyful, side-splitting production of “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” presented by Main Street Players.

The play centers on three actors who have grown weary of performing Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” over and over again each holiday. Their solution to this predicament? Incorporating every single Christmas story they can think of into a single evening of seasonal fun.

Along the way, they also find time to celebrate an abundance of Christmas traditions from around the world, acknowledging a variety of classic and modern holiday icons, and performing a host of Christmas carols.

“Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” was written by John Alvarez, Michael Carleton and James Fitzgerald, a trio of writers and actors who named the three characters after themselves and starred in the original production of the play. The show made its debut in 2003 on the Cape May Stage in Cape May, New Jersey, and has since been performed at hundreds of theatres across the country.

The play is full of uproarious comic moments, but audience members may also find portions of it surprisingly touching.

“It’s a silly headlong rush through a lot of memories, and in the end, yeah there are some funny jokes, but I think its real value is reminding everyone of so much they’d forgotten about Christmases past,” Carleton said. “There was a review of an early production that phrased it something like, ‘It accomplishes the small miracle of making all Christmas myths and traditions seem ridiculous, and absolutely essential.’ I like that.”

Main Street previously staged “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” in December 2013, and they’re pleased to bring this audience favorite back with an all-new cast. Main Street regulars Curtis Brown (The Lion in Winter), Walker Davis (Holmes and Watson), and Andrew Stewart (Fireflies) play the three leads, with Main Street’s artistic director Norma Richardson returning to helm the play. Nicholas Clark and Mary Gresham respectively fill the roles of stage manager and assistant stage manager, with a variety of Spalding High School Students serving as stagehands. The set was designed by Main Street’s regular scenic designer BJ Hughes.

“Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” continues from Friday, Dec. 6, through Sunday, Dec. 15. Wednesday through Saturday performances are at 7:30 p.m., while Sunday matinee performances are at 3 p.m. Tickets for Main Street’s Christmas shows tend to sell quickly, so make your reservations today by calling the box office at 770.229.9916 or by visiting mainstreetplayers.org. Remaining tickets will be available at the box office the evening of the performance. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and $10 for students. Don’t miss this fun-filled evening of holiday entertainment!

STAFF REPORT :::

The Griffin Police Department is investigating two separate incidents in which people appear to have been randomly targeted by armed assailants.

The first case, an aggravated assault, was reported by 62-year-old Steven Driver, who said he was attacked after his vehicle became disabled.

“…I met with Steven Driver, who stated that at about 0615 hours, he was beat up by two black male subjects on E. Quilly Street near the N. 6^th Street intersection while trying to fix his broken down vehicle. Mr. Driver stated that his vehicle had broken down and he was under the hood working when two men dressed in dark clothing wearing sock hats both in there 20’s to 30’s, approached him and struck him in the head with a hard object, possibly a bottle (sic all),” reported GPD Uniform Patrol Officer Chris Conway.  “Mr. Driver stated that the men went through his pockets but did not take anything from him.”

Driver, who sustained visible injuries including lacerations to the top of his head and swelling under his right eye, said the pair fled on foot eastbound down E. Quilly Street.
The second case, a street robbery involving a handgun, was reported by 61-year-old Nathaniel Duffie.

“When I arrived on scene, I met with Nathaniel Duffie who advised me that he was walking home from Everee Inn Package Store when two subjects came up from behind him, showed what he believed to be a 9mm gun and stole the alcohol which he had just purchased,” said Officer Brian Dorety.

Duffie said he conceals his money and the suspects did not check for money.

Dorety reported the two suspects were described as “fully covered” with were wearing what appeared to be ski masks. Duffie said their voices led him to believe they were young, perhaps 13- to 15-years-old.

Duffie was uninjured in the incident but did report his assailants stole two Crown Royal apple shots and one Bud Ice beer.

Both cases remain open and active.

STAFF REPORT :::

A Spalding County man, 23-year-old Travonte Goggins, is facing charges of kidnapping and aggravated assault in relation to an alleged violent attack reported by his girlfriend.

The incident was reported to Spalding E911 on Friday, Dec. 6, by Arishona Lyons, who alleged Goggins attacked her in their residence, Apartment 13 Northside Drive.

According to the incident report filed by Deputy T. Daniels, of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office Uniform Patrol Division, two juveniles were present and sleeping in the apartment when the incident allegedly took place.

“Ms. Lyons approached my patrol vehicle wearing shorts and no shirt. Ms. Lyons was holding a t-shirt over her upper torso. Ms. Lyons advised she was involved in a domestic dispute with her live-in boyfriend, Travonte Goggins…” Daniels reported.

After initial attempts to locate Goggins were unsuccessful, Daniels and Deputy Scott Piper returned to Lyons who provided specific details of the alleged attack.

“Ms. Lyons stated Mr. Goggins accused her of having sex with her stepfather and began arguing,” Daniels said. “Ms. Lyons stated Mr. Goggins slammed her on the bed, the floor and threw her in the closet causing damage to the sheetrock. Ms. Lyons stated Mr. Goggins grabbed her from the closet, threw her on the bed and placed a pillow on her face. Ms. Lyons stated Mr. Goggins choked her with his hands.”

Lyons said she pushed Goggins off her and attempted to leave the bedroom, but Goggins would not allow her to exit, Daniels reported.“Ms. Lyons stated Mr. Goggins was extremely angry and threatened to kill her multiple times,” Daniels said.

Daniels reported that Lyons said she initially complied with Goggins demands, but said that when he opened the bedroom door, she fled and began knocking on neighbors’ doors, asking for assistance.

Lyons ultimately ran to her sister’s nearby apartment, where she called 911. Lyons also alleged that Goggins followed her there, snatched the phone from her, ended the 911 call and begged her not to report the incident.

“Ms. Lyons stated the 911 operator called her back and she explained the incident,” Daniels said, adding that Lyons had small cuts on her shoulder and a mark on her neck consistent with having been choked.

After the deputies left Lyons, she again called 911, reporting that Goggins had returned to her apartment.

Daniels said upon second arrival, a man matching the description Lyons provided was seen walking in front of the complex’s J building. He then fled on foot, Daniels reported.
Additional SCSO personnel arrived and joined the search for Goggins.

The suspect was not immediately located, but after surveilling the area, Goggins allegedly attempted to again flee on foot.

Lt. Michael Chadwick then engaged Goggins, utilizing his Taser to apprehend the suspect.

Goggins was taken into custody and charged with battery under the Georgia Family Violence Act, aggravated assault by strangulation, kidnapping, criminal trespass and obstructing or hindering persons making emergency telephone calls.

STAFF REPORT :::

Two separate drive by shootings – one early Sunday morning and the second early Tuesday – left three Griffin homes riddled with gunfire.

On Dec. 8, at approximately 4 a.m., Griffin Police Department Officer Phillip Johnson responded to the 300 block of East Quilly Street, where he met with Jemel Whitlock and Whitney Nichole Melton.

“Melton stated that she and Whitlock were asleep on the couches in the living room of the residence when they were awakened by the sounds of multiple gun shots outside their residence. Melton stated that she and Whitlock stayed face down on the couches until the shooting stopped,” Johnson reported.

After the shooting ceased, Melton noted several items and walls inside the residence had been damaged by the gunfire.

Melton also reported that her two children were not home at the time of the shooting because she had worked late.

“I observed damage to multiple appliances inside the residence and bullet holes leading from the exterior wall of the residence to multiple areas/rooms inside of the residence. During a search of the interior of the residence, two bullet projectiles were discovered, one .40 caliber projectile and one 9 mm projectile,” Johnson stated. “During a search of the outside of the residence I discovered 26 shell casings in the roadway in front of the residence, 13 .40 caliber and 13 9mm shell casings.”

The second drive by shooting occurred just before 1 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 110 Morris St.

“Upon my arrival myself and several other officers were able to locate approximately seven 9mm shell casings along the southbound lane of Morris Street between East Central Avenue and East Chappell Street,” said GPD Officer Stephen Trawick, who met with Shalanda King, who reported the shooting to Spalding E911.

“King stated that shortly before our arrival she heard several consecutive gunshots and then heard what sounded like projectiles entering her apartment. King stated that upon hearing this, she immediately ran to her hallway for cover and called 911,” Trawick said. “While speaking with King, I was able to locate three holes which appeared to be created by projectiles. I located three separate bullet holes in three separate bedrooms of Apartment M. One bullet hole was directly beside where King was laying, as well as another beside where King’s sone was laying and a third beside where King’s daughter was laying.”

Trawick then spoke with Demetria Callands, the resident of Apartment E, who reported she also heard several gunshots and immediately dialed 911.

“While speaking with Callands, I was able to locate two bullet holes within the walls of her apartment, one of which went through a bedroom of the residence,” Trawick said. “Upon further inspection, I was able to locate a projectile laying on the floor of this apartment.”

Further investigation revealed that Callands’ 2008 Nissan Altima also was struck by gunfire.

Both drive by shooting incidents remain under investigation.

STAFF REPORT :::

The Spalding County Sheriff’s Office on Saturday held an awards banquet during which employees were recognized for outstanding service.

The banquet, which was held at the Kiwanis Event Center, honored both sworn and civilian employees including:

Deputy of the Year (Enforcement) Captain John Corley

Deputy of the Year (Detention) Sergeant Phillip Ramsammy

Civilian Employee of the Year Mrs. Julie Shorb

Rookie of the Year (Enforcement) Deputy Maurice Gray

Rookie of the Year (Detention) Deputy Adrian Deane

Several deputies also were presented commendations by Sheriff Dix, including Deputy Amy Hingsonm who received the Purple Heart; Deputy David Porter, who received the Life Saving and Meritorious Conduct commendations; and Deputy Bryan Head and Investigator Andrew Degler, who each received the Life Saving commendation.

“The banquet was held for the employees and their families to say thank you for all that they do to make Spalding County better. This year’s banquet included awards for Deputies of the year from enforcement and detention, civilian employee of the year, and rookies of the year from enforcement and detention,” said Sheriff Darrell Dix. “The recipients were chosen for these recognitions by their peers which makes them even more meaningful. We have a great group of folks who work at the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office and I can’t thank them enough. I’m proud of all our employees and the work they do every day.”

SHEILA A. MATHEWS :::

A 14-year-old Griffin boy is in custody on a charge of aggravated assault associated with shooting his father.

Officers of the Griffin Police Department Uniform Patrol Division on Monday night responded to 1100 W. College St. Extension Apartment G5 in reference to a person with a gunshot wound. The victim was identified as Shem Baker.

“Baker stated that he was bringing his son (an unidentified 14-year-old) back to their residence after an argument a few minutes prior to them arriving,” reported Officer Josh Holley. “Baker stated that when he made it to the steps at G building (his son) shot him in the rear with a gun and then took off running. Baker stated that (his son) has been having some issues recently.”

Baker was subsequently transported to the emergency room of WellStar Spalding Regional Hospital for treatment of his injuries.

After initially fleeing the scene, the juvenile suspect is now in custody.

“The juvenile was taken into custody at approximately 9 p.m. last night, charged with aggravated assault, and transported to a juvenile detention facility,” said GPD Chief Mike Yates.

SHEILA A. MATHEWS :::

For the third time in three days, a Griffin home has been struck by many rounds of gunfire.

Officers of the Griffin Police Department Uniform Patrol Division on Wednesday responded to 322 N. 5^th St., in reference to a report of shots fired.

“Upon my arrival myself and several other officers were able to locate approximately 20 shell casings in the road on E. Quilly Street. Upon checking the area further, I made contact with Latrice Lewis, who lives at 322 N. 5^th St.,” reported Officer Scott Sierra. “Lewis advised me shortly before our arrival she heard several gunshots then heard what sounded like projectiles entering her house and windows shattering. Lewis stated she dropped to the floor for cover and called 911.”

Along with Latrice Lewis, the residence is occupied by her 70-year-old mother, Sallie Lewis, two adult children, 20-year-old Draquavion Lakeith Holland and 22-year-old Aleisa Kanyia Lewis, and two minor children.

“While speaking with Lewis, I was able to locate broken glass in her living room which appeared to be created by projectiles through the rear of the house. I was able to located (sic) other holes in the rear of the house which appeared to be created by projectiles,” Sierra said.

According to Sierra, further investigation indicated approximately 10 to 15 holes in the rear of the house that appeared to have been caused by projectiles.

Publisher’s Note: The GRIP has attempted to obtain information from Griffin Police Department Public Information Office Lt. Daniel Jett, but it has not been forthcoming as of publication.

STAFF REPORT :::

Griffin Police Department investigators now say several shooting incidents this week are believed to be gang retaliations involving the Crips and Bloods criminal street gangs, with at least one related outside incident involving a murder.

These incidents have resulted in residences being struck by projectiles from various caliber weapons. The shootings have occurred on Morris Street, East Quilly Street and North 5^th Street. All these residences were occupied when the shootings took place.

There was also a disturbance involving a large crown reported at the Morris Street location on Dec. 6 that authorities say may be related to this series of incidents.

Investigators believe at least one of the shootings at a home on East Quilly Street involved perpetrators mistakenly targeting an incorrect location.

According to a press release issued by the GPD, some of the suspects live or frequent Griffin.

Officials say it “appears obvious” that these incidents are linked to gang behavior and ongoing criminal activity associated with incidents that have occurred in unincorporated Spalding, Clayton and Henry counties.

Authorities say the Griffin Police Department is devoting all available assets to resolve and prevent these types of crimes.

The two Uniform Patrol Division night shift patrol squads have been responding to these calls in addition to their other duties. Additional manpower and resources have been assigned to help those shifts deal with these issues and will be specifically tasked with halting this criminal activity.

A criminal street gang investigation is being conducted and Gang Act charges will be brought against all involved parties, officials said, adding that some participants have been identified.

“We will use every tool at our disposal, every officer we have and every resource we can acquire to crush this gang presence and we will be engaging it immediately while making every effort to prosecute the participants to the fullest extent of what the law allows. If you choose to live this lifestyle (Criminal Gangs) stop, leave Griffin or suffer the consequences,” said Chief Mike Yates.

STAFF REPORT :::

The Spalding County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a suspect in the Nov. 18 armed robbery of Ringgold Grocery located at 4243 Jackson Road.

The investigation, which has been ongoing, resulted in additional interviews this week that led to the suspect’s identification as 17-year-old Caleb Maines, of 1713 Park Circle.

The SCSO SWAT Team and investigators of the Criminal Investigation Division on Tuesday executed a search warrant at Maines’ residence, but he was not present.

Investigators on Thursday received information that Maines had returned to 1713 Park Circle. The Fugitive Apprehension Unit, Special Operations Unit, SWAT Team, deputies and investigators established a perimeter around the residence.

“We were able to speak to some of Caleb’s relatives who were at the residence via phone and met with them face to face. Working together with them we were able to convince Maines to surrender peacefully,” said Sheriff Darrell Dix.

Maines was taken into custody without incident and is currently being housed in the Spalding County Jail.

He has been charged with armed robbery, two counts of aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and possession of a firearm by a minor.

“Our Deputies, Investigators and other team members did an outstanding job of following up on the leads they received, gathering evidence, and conducting interviews. Their teamwork, following the game plan, and their tenacity, led to this suspect being taken into custody,” Dix said. “We also want to say, ‘thank you’ for the leads and tips that were provided to us by the public that helped solve this case.”

STAFF REPORT :::

The Griffin Police Department arrested a Griffin man following a shooting incident near an apartment complex.

According to a press release issued by the GPD, the incident occurred in the area of Quiet Hills Apartments on West Avenue and Lane Street on Thursday, Dec. 12.

Authorities say officers in the Uniform Patrol Division received an anonymous call reporting shots were fired in that area.

UPD officers were in the vicinity, responded within seconds and allegedly observed a vehicle leaving the area at speeds in excess of the posted speed limit.

The vehicle, which was occupied by Zayvon Amari Williams and Shakilya Williams, was stopped.

Officials say a consensual search resulted in the discovery of an allegedly stolen handgun. Officers also learned that Zayvon Williams was wanted on an unrelated warrant.

He was arrested and has been further charged with reckless conduct and theft by receiving stolen property, and additional charges are pending.

Extra personnel had been assigned to assist patrol following three earlier shooting incidents last week.

The GPD said officers were able to quickly respond last Thursday because of the additional manpower and resources.

“Extra patrols will continue in an effort to put a stop to these type incidents and to identify and prosecute those individuals involved,” said Chief Mike Yates.

STAFF REPORT :::

The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is reporting the flu is widespread throughout the state, with more than 200 hospitalizations and two flu-related deaths confirmed.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention further estimates that there have been at least 2.6 million flu-related illnesses and 1,300 deaths from flu nationwide.

Both are recommending those who have not yet received the flu vaccine do so immediately.

The DPH says the predominant flu virus currently circulating is a B/Victoria strain that usually does not appear until the end of the flu season in early spring. While B viruses can infect anyone, they generally strike children and young adults more than the elderly. The B/Victoria strain is included in this season’s flu vaccine.

“Every individual over the age of six months should get a flu vaccine – not just for their own protection, but to protect others around them who may be more vulnerable to the flu and its complications,” said DHP Commissioner Kathleen E. Toomey MD., M.P.H. “It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body, so now is the time to get a flu shot.”

Flu symptoms and their intensity can vary from person to person and can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. If you think you have the flu, call or visit your health care provider.

Additional steps you can take that help prevent the spread of flu include:

Frequent and thorough hand washing with soap and warm water. Alcohol based gels are the next best thing if you do not have access to soap and water.

Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow or arm to help prevent the spread of the flu.

Avoid touching your face as flu germs can get into the body through mucus membranes of the nose, mouth and eyes.

If you are sick, stay home from school or work. Flu sufferers should be free of a fever, without the use of a fever reducer, for at least 24 hours before returning to school or work.

If you are caring for a sick individual at home, keep them away from common areas of the house and other people as much as possible.

To learn more about influenza, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/flu/. You can monitor Georgia weekly influenza reports, which are updated on Fridays, at http://dph.georgia/gov/flu-activity-georgia.

STAFF REPORT :::

Spalding County has been awarded an Employee Safety Grant from the Association County Commissioners of Georgia-Self Insurance Workers’ Compensation Fund (ACCG-GSIWFC).

The grant program is available to Fund members that are fostering a culture of workplace safety through additional training, equipment or services.

“We are pleased to provide this newly created grant program to assist members in improving their safety efforts,” said ACCG-GSIWCF Board of Trustees Chairman and McDuffie County Commissioner Frederick Favors. “The opportunity to receive the Employee Safety Grant is just one of the many benefits of being part of ACCG’s member-owned workers’ compensation program.”

The ACCG-GSIWFC Board of Trustees allotted $1.5 million in grant funds over the next three years, with $500,000 available to eligible members in 2019.

For additional information, please visit http://www.accg.org.

STAFF REPORT :::

Spalding County Parks and Leisure Services is asking residents to utilize organizations that aid the homeless and those in need.

According to a press release issued by Spalding County, some leave donated items in areas frequented by the homeless, but that is being discouraged.

Officials say anonymous or abandoned packages may be treated as suspicious by law enforcement, and Parks and Leisure Services is asking residents to keep that in mind this holiday season.

“As we enjoy the season of giving, thoughts of the homeless and less fortunate inspire many to look for ways to help those in need. Spalding County Parks and Leisure Services ask that you keep in mind that there are many charitable organizations that will collect and distribute your donations,” the release stated. “Anyone wishing to donate is asked to take unwrapped and identifiable items to a local charity of your choice. Thank you for giving so that others may feel the warmth of this holiday season.”

STAFF REPORT :::

Through Jan. 4, 2020, Spalding County residents may recycle their Christmas trees through the Bring One For the Chipper program.

Hosted by Spalding County Public Works, the annual recycling event allows trees to be dropped off at the Carver Road Collection Center located at 610 Carver Road.

Trees will be chipped into mulch or used as a wildlife habitat. The program has been a holiday tradition in Georgia for 30 years and is the largest tree recycling program in the nation.

The purpose of the event is to educate the public on recycling and environmental conservation while allowing communities to put discarded Christmas trees to good use.

Christmas trees are being accepted at all Spalding County Collection Centers, but in order to participate in the Bring One For the Chipper program, they will need to be brought to the Carver Road location.

Program sponsors include the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation, Home Depot, The Davey Tree Expert Company, Georgia Forestry Commission, Atlanta’s NBC affiliate 11Alive, Ferry Morse Company and Burpee Seed Company.

For additional information, please contact Spalding County Public Works at 770.467.4774.

STAFF REPORT :::

In what officials refer to as “an abundance of caution,” the Spalding County Senior Center has been cleaned and treated for bed bugs.

This follows an Oct. 25, report from a Senior Center participant who reported to staff he had bug bites on his skin.

Staff then contacted Peachtree Pest Control, the contracted vendor, and shared photos of the bites.

Peachtree Pest Control reviewed the photos and stated, “It does not look like bed bug bites.”

Officials say Peachtree Pest Control recommended vacuuming the floor and furniture daily, and said since there was no evidence of bugs in the furniture, a bed bug infestation was highly unlikely.

As a precautionary measure, the chair the participant utilized daily was removed from the building, treated and left outdoors for three days. Furnishings and carpeting were also vacuumed daily by inmate custodial crews.

The same male Senior Center participant on Dec. 5, again reported to staff that he had bites to his skin after sitting in the facility library.

Senior Center staff reported this to senior management and the Three Rivers Regional Commission, which provides senior transportation services.

Senior Center library access was also closed.

Staff members of the Senior Center were subsequently informed that the Heavenly Cares Personal Care Home in Griffin had a bed bug problem and two participants who resided at that facility had stopped attending the Senior Center.

Three Rivers Area Agency on Aging advised that this personal care facility should provide proof of treatment and bug eradication to Senior Center staff prior to residents being allowed to return to the Senior Center.

Peachtree Pest Control was again contacted and an inspection of the Senior Center was scheduled for the following week.

A Dec. 6 meeting was held involving Senior Center staff and Spalding County senior management.

The county’s senior management contacted Spalding County Extension Agent Philip Hensley, who then contacted Glass Termite & Pest Inc.

Glass Termite & Pest Inc. inspected the Senior Center that afternoon, finding traces of possible bed bug activity in the chair previously removed, as well as in a bench that had been located in the hallway.|

All benches were removed, and Glass Termite & Pest Inc. described the situation as a very early detection.

The Senior Center library showed no further evidence of bed bugs, but remained closed.

On Dec. 10, Senior Transportation busses were cleaned and treated, and the county’s senior management conferred with Dr. Dan Suiter, a professor of entomology at the University of Georgia School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at the UGA-Griffin Campus, and an inspection by a bed bug sniffing K9 was recommended and approved.

Red Coat Services, which utilizes K9s specially trained to detect bed bugs, on Dec. 12, inspected the Spalding County motor coach, with no evidence of bed bugs being detected.
Red Coat Services, Glass Termite & Pest Inc., Suiter and Spalding County staff on Dec. 13, inspecte3d the Senior Center.

Officials say the Red Coat inspection determined, “A small amount of feces was found on a hallway bench, that had been removed from the Center a week before the inspection. No other evidence of bed bug activity was found.”

Following this inspection, a press release was issued regarding the Senior Center being closed Dec. 19-20 and through the holidays for cleaning and maintenance.

Although no evidence of bed bugs was found inside the Center during the Dec. 13, inspection, in an abundance of caution, a deep cleaning was undertaken on Dec. 19, followed by the treatment of the entire Center on Dec. 20.

The Senior Center reopened Dec. 26.

Continued treatment will include inspections every seven to ten days for seven weeks and quarterly inspections moving forward.

“We are extremely proud of our Senior Center and the services provided there. Our Seniors are a great asset to the community and to set everyone’s mind at ease we are taking that extra step to clean and treat the facility,” said Spalding County Manager William Wilson.

STAFF REPORT :::

The Spalding County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 20 people in connection with an investigation specifically targeting individuals allegedly distributing methamphetamine and opiates in Griffin and Spalding County. In addition to the 20 arrested, ten more suspects are wanted and being sought in connection to this investigation.

The investigation was initiated in December, and as it progressed, agents found that many of those being targeted had been recently released from prison, were already on parole or probation or had been released on a current bond on pending narcotics related charges.

The operation culminated Dec. 20, with agents of the SCSO Special Operations and C.A.G.E. and Fugitive Apprehension units, S.W.A.T., Uniform Patrol and Criminal Investigations divisions; Georgia Department of Community Supervision, Food and Drug Administration and the United States Marshal Service executing search and arrest warrants across the county.

The SCSO S.W.A.T. Team executed two search warrants, with the first at 413 N. 9^th St.
Officials say investigators there discovered a quantity of prescription medication resulting in the arrest of Michael Cole on charges of sale of Oxycodone, possession of Oxycodone with intent to distribute and possession of Oxycodone.

The second S.W.A.T. Team warrant was executed at 115 Huston St.

“The S.W.A.T. Team was faced with an individual who had set up his narcotic distribution operation on a dead-end street. He had dogs that would immediately alert him to anyone’s presence and had a surveillance system including cameras that surrounded his residence. The cameras included views of the street that would allow him to see all vehicles that entered Huston St. as they turned off North Hill St. His efforts proved to be worthless as the warrant was executed,” said Sheriff Darrell Dix.

As a result, Richard Tyrone Barrett was located while allegedly attempting to conceal 298 Carisoprodol pills, 58 Hydrocodone pills, 268 Oxycodone pills and 120 Alprazolam pills that he was reportedly selling illegally. Barrett has been charged with possession of Oxycodone, possession of Oxycodone with the intent to distribute, possession of alprazolam, possession of alprazolam with the intent to distribute, possession of carisoprodol, possession of carisoprodol with the intent to distribute, possession of hydrocodone and possession of hydrocodone with the intent to distribute.

The same day, a third search warrant was executed at 106 Whitney Lane, with the cooperation of Butts County Sheriff Gary Long and BCSO personnel, resulting in the arrest of Cameron Reid, who was allegedly found to be in possession of methamphetamine and more than a dozen firearms.

Reid is currently being held in the Butts County Jail facing charges of burglary. When Reid has completed the judicial process in Butts County, he will be transported to Spalding County where he has been charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, multiple counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and multiple counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Additional arrests that resulted from this investigation include:

Randy Ray Brown, age 40, who has been charged with violation of probation, six counts of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, sale of Schedule II narcotics, multiple counts of possession of scheduled narcotics, fleeing and attempting to elude, theft by receiving stolen vehicle and illegal use of telecommunication facility;

Jennifer Villiers, age 40, who has been charged with possession of methamphetamine and violation of probation;

Dorothy Mazza, who has been charged with violation of probation: false name and date of birth (Henry County);

Eric Rogers, age 52, who has been charged with violation of probation;

Jacob Odom, age 21, who has been charged with use of a telecommunication facility to procure methamphetamine and suboxone, possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime;

Jason Tarleton, age 25, who has been charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug related objects, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and violation of probation;

Joni Finch, age 37, who has been charged with conspiracy to possess methamphetamine and use of a telecommunication facility to procure methamphetamine;

Cristi Silver, age 45, who has been charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug related objects;

April Westbrook, who has been charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug related objects;

Keith Freeman, who has been charged with possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime;

Wendy Camp, age 36, who has been charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug related objects;

Betty Wallace, who has been charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug related objects;

Joseph Archer, age 44, who has been charged with possession of methamphetamine;

Joshua O’Neal, age 40, who has been charged with violation of probation;

Darnell King, age 37, who has been charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and violation of parole;

Allison Aubrey, age 26, who has been charged with violation of probation; and

William Darrell Feltman, who has been charged with violation of probation.

The following individuals have outstanding warrants for their arrest and are currently being sought:

Jodi Davenport, who is wanted on charges of conspiracy to possess methamphetamine and unlawful use of a telecommunications facility to procure methamphetamine;

James Bunn, who is wanted on charges of unlawful use of a telecommunications facility to procure methamphetamine and violation of probation;

James Robert Carter, who is wanted for unlawful use of a telecommunications facility to procure methamphetamine;

Ben Glass, who is wanted for violation of probation;

Ross Tillman Pruitt, who is wanted for conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine and unlawful use of a telecommunications facility to traffic methamphetamine;

Andrew Compton, who is wanted for possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute and sale of marijuana;

Travis Fowler, who is wanted for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine and unlawful use of a telecommunications facility to procure methamphetamine;

Clinton Edwards, who is wanted for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine and unlawful use of a communications facility to procure methamphetamine;

Brittney Mann, who is wanted for unlawful use of a telecommunications facility and conspiracy to purchase a Schedule II narcotic; and

Christy Coleman, who is wanted for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug related objects.

“Most of these individuals are previous offenders who have been given second chances and are already on probation or parole for their previous crimes. There were also individuals that had already been taken into custody that have now been notified of their new charges. This operation comes as we wrap up 2019 and is another sign of the hard work by the men and women of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office,” Dix said. “This year we have seen a decrease in crime across the county, an increase in partnerships and communication between the community and law enforcement, coupled with transparency and trust. We will continue this in 2020 as we all work together to make Spalding County safer. Thank you for all you do and thank you for supporting the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office.”

STAFF REPORT :::

Two Griffin men were arrested Monday after officers of the Griffin Police Department Special Investigations and CAGE units attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle reported stolen out of Newton County.

Officials say the driver, Jermad Barkley, jumped from the vehicle and fled on foot, throwing a handgun in the roadway. Barkley was located a short distance away and surrendered without further incident.

He has been charged with obstruction of a law enforcement officer, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, reckless conduct and possession of less than one ounce of marijuana.

A second occupant, Phillip Goodrum, who authorities say is a “validated confirmed gang member belonging to the Neighborhood Crips,” was charged with possession of less than one ounce of marijuana. He also had outstanding warrants from a Dec. 12, incident in which he and Goodrum allegedly fled from officers.

The vehicle’s third occupant, Monkedre McCord, was on Dec. 12, charged with obstruction of a law enforcement officer.

“We will continue to pursue, identify and prosecute known gang members in our City,” said Chief Mike Yates. “We will be ever vigilant in our efforts to suppress the gangs and their activities.”

STAFF REPORT :::

Members of the Griffin-Spalding County Board of Education have re-elected Will Doss and Zachary Holmes as its chair and vice-chair, respectively.

The vote was taken during the BoE’s Jan. 7, meeting held at Cowan Road Middle School.
Holmes was first elected to the Board of Education in 2001, and Doss was elected in 2016.

During Doss’ first term as chairman, the BoE was in 2019 designated as “distinguished” by the Georgia School Board Association. This designation was based on best practices in school governance and leadership.

Doss and Holmes’ terms as chairman and vice-chairman will begin immediately and run through January 2021.

STAFF REPORT :::

The Griffin Police Department is investigating a theft at the Taylor Street Chick-fil-A after an employee was the alleged victim of a short-change scam.

According to Officer Ahlesltia Smith, of the GPD Uniform Patrol Division, Chick-fil-A Manager Sean Ivey reported an employee was fraudulently manipulated out of cash.

The cashier, who is not being identified because she is a juvenile, reported an unknown male customer ordered from the menu and gave her a $100 bill for payment, which she placed in the cash register.

The customer then allegedly requested she return the $100 bill in exchange for a smaller denomination of currency.

“(The cashier) further stated that the customer kept talking to (her) as if he was trying to distract her and he gave her some loose change as if he gave her a smaller bill for the food,” Smith reported. “(The cashier) stated that the customer told her that she didn’t give him any cash back, at which time she gave him $95 back and a receipt.”

The cashier said she checked her cash register, but did not find the original $100 bill. She said she then looked up to approach the customer about the mistake, but he had quickly left the business.

Officers searched the area for the suspect, who was identified as a black male wearing all black clothing, including a t-shirt with a colorful picture of Nipsey Hussle, but he was not located.