Don Hawbaker Feb. 4, 2020, booking photo courtesy of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office

SHEILA A. MATHEWS :::

Don Hawbaker, who is currently being held without bond in the Spalding County Jail, remains a member of the Spalding County Board of Commissioners.

Under Georgia law, governmental action to remove a commissioner may not be initiated prior to the official being indicted by a grand jury on a felony charge.

While Hawbaker is incarcerated, the Board is left with only four voting members, making the possibility of tied votes a distinct possibility. Asked if this could present be an impediment to the conduction of county business, County Manager William Wilson said, “We could have tied votes which would lengthen business, yes, ma’am. (It could) delay formal action by the Board of Commissioners.”

Asked how detrimental that may be, Wilson said he does not anticipate it causing a significant disruption.

“I don’t see it happening that much. If you look through our agendas, it doesn’t happen that often. It’s usually a unanimous vote,” he said. “It’s usually the more controversial votes that may be 3-2, so perhaps the more controversial votes may be delayed until we have a full five-member board again.”

The GRIP then posed questions regarding the future of the Board of Commissioners.

Q – Should Hawbaker later be granted bond, he would still be a member of the Board of Commissioners, correct?

A – That would be my understanding. He is still a member of the Board of Commissioners.

Q – With full voting privileges?

A – Just like any other member.

Should a governor desire to take action against an elected commissioner, they are required to await their indictment. Once a copy of the indictment has been received, the governor is required to wait a minimum of 14 days before appointing a review commission, which would consist of the Georgia attorney general and two county commissioners.

During that 14-day waiting period, the indicted commissioner may agree to a voluntary suspension. If they do not agree, the review commission will submit a written report to the governor.

The review commission may recommend a suspension from office if it is determined the indictment relates to and adversely affects the administration of their elected office and that the rights of the public.

The governor may, but is not required to, accept the advisory commission’s recommendation, and immediately suspend the commissioner.

If a commissioner is suspended, a replacement county commissioner would be appointed by either general law or a local act. If no legal provision exists to fill the vacancy, the governor will make an appointment to fill the vacancy.

Hawbaker has not yet been indicted, but remains jailed on eight charges – one count of simple assault, three counts of disorderly conduct, all misdemeanors, and four felony counts of aggravated assault against a law enforcement officer.

SHEILA A. MATHEWS :::

ZEBULON – A hearing is underway in Pike County Superior Court in which Griffin Judicial Circuit Superior Court Judge Mack Crawford will plead guilty to one count of misdemeanor theft by taking.

Crawford was originally charged with felony theft by taking and two counts of violating his oath of office.

The charges alleging he violated his oath have been dismissed.

As part of his sentence under this negotiated plea, Crawford will retire from the bench.

He has submitted his letter of resignation to be effective immediately.

The GRIP will report more fully on this breaking story upon completion of this morning’s court hearing.

STAFF REPORT :::

The Griffin Police Department has arrested six men in connection to a Tuesday morning armed robbery at Bowen’s Pharmacy located at 1378 Experiment St.

According to a press release issued by the GPD, upon arrival, officers were given a description of suspects and a description and the tag number of the vehicle allegedly used by suspects.

While en route to the residence listed on the vehicle’s registration, investigators encountered the suspect vehicle and initiated a stop.

The vehicle’s driver, Marquez Kenon, of McDonough, was taken into custody without incident.

Surveillance footage obtained from Bowen’s Pharmacy yielded additional information that officials say directed them to a location in South Hampton Mobile Home Park where other suspects were taken into custody.

In addition to Kenon, the GPD has arrested in connection with the incident Shamir Johnson, age 18, of Hampton; Devontae Slaton, age 18, of Jonesboro; Ethan McIntyre, age 20, of Theodore, Ala.; Tory Wooten, age 17, of Griffin; and Christopher Rogers, age 20, of McDonough.

All six suspects have been charged with armed robbery, aggravated assault, possession with intent to distribute a Schedule One substance and violation of the Georgia Criminal Street Gang Act.

Authorities say GPD investigators “worked tirelessly to bring this case to a conclusion,” adding that personnel of the Criminal Investigation Division, Special Investigations Unit and Criminal Apprehension and Gang Enforcement (CAGE) Unit “worked seamlessly and in unison with each other” on this case.

The GPD also extended appreciation to the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office for assistance with warrant service in unincorporated Spalding County and the Henry County Police Department for investigative assistance.

This investigation remains ongoing and an additional series of crimes may be related to this group of suspects across several jurisdictions, officials said.

“It is not enough to simply charge these individuals with their crimes; the case must be built to convict them and send them to prison for a long, long time,” said GPD Chief Mike Yates. “GPD wants to send the message that we will use all the tools available to successfully prosecute these gangsters.”

Main Street Players’ first production of 2020 – The Wild Women of Winedale – features Nancy Gresham standing at left, Norma Richardson seated and Marian Sorenson. Photo credit: Rick Blackshear

STAFF REPORT :::

Get ready for an evening of joyful laughter and heartwarming moments as Main Street Players serves up the first production of 2020.

The Wild Women of Winedale spotlights the lives of the three Wild sisters – Fanny, Willa and their sister-in-law Johnnie Faye – as they face a series of new challenges in Winedale, Va. The sisters have always loved and supported each other through thick and thin, and now they need each other more than ever.

Willa’s nursing job is so stressful that it has driven her to vodka and speed-knitting. Fanny has just turned 60 and has experienced a hilariously inappropriate reaction to that milestone. Johnnie Faye has lost her home to a Florida sinkhole, and is searching for a new husband who can provide her with a replacement. On top of that, all three sisters are burdened with an abundance of family keepsakes and possessions that no one seems to want.

Together, the sisters will face these challenges, find ways to clear the clutter from their lives and discover a series of new paths to follow. The journey is filled with riotous laughs and affecting moments and is sure to leave you with a smile on your face.

The play was written by the prolific trio of Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten, whose plays are marked by boisterous, character-driven humor and genuine warmth. Their work has become a staple of many theatres across the country, and they have delighted Main Street audiences on numerous occasions in the past. If you’ve enjoyed such productions as The Dixie Swim Club, The Hallelujah Girls, Dashing Through the Snow, Mama Won’t Fly and Christmas Belles, this is a show you don’t want to miss.

Main Street’s production of The Wild Women of Winedale stars three women who will be familiar to Main Street audiences – Nancy Gresham, most recently seen as Mama Lily in Hank Williams: Lost Highway, plays Willa Wild; Marian Sorensen, most recently seen as Grace Bodell in Fireflies, plays Fanny Wild Cantrelle; and Main Street’s Artistic Director Norma Richardson takes on the dual role of directing the show and playing the role of Johnny Faye Wild.

Andrew Stewart serves as the show’s assistant director, and the set was designed by BJ Hughes. Costume design was provided by Norma Richardson and Curtis Brown, with lighting design by Curtis Brown and sound design by Andrew Stewart.

The Wild Women of Winedale runs February 12-23. Wednesday through Saturday performances are at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 3 p.m.

Tickets for this production are likely to sell quickly, so you are encouraged to make reservations promptly in order to secure your seat. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and $15 for students, with discounts available for groups of 10 or more. Make your reservations today by calling the box office at 770.229.9916 or by visiting mainsstreetplayers.org. Remaining tickets will be available at the box office the evening of the performance.

Don’t miss this charming, side-splitting production!

STAFF REPORTS :::

A report filed with the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office by a man alleging he was frightened of his son has resulted in an arrest under the Georgia Family Violence Act.

According to the incident report filed by Deputy Colt Taylor, the dispute involved a demand for assistance paying a bill.

“Upon my arrival I made contact with the complainant (59-year-old Steven Hill) who stated his son (Nolan Hill) was scaring him. I asked Steven how Nolan was doing that. Steven stated that Nolan demanded that he help him with the internet bill,” Taylor said.

Steven Hill alleged that escalated to threats and a physical assault.

“Steven then stated that Nolan then started to threaten him. I asked Steven to explain how Nolan threatened him, he stated he was insulting him by calling him names like ‘pu**y.’ Steven stated that Nolan was saying the insults trying to provoke him into a fight,” Taylor said.

Steven Hill initially denied the incident had escalated to a physical confrontation, but then said his son had “chest bumped” him, Taylor said.

“Steven stated that when Nolan pushed him he lost his balance. Steven stated that Nolan pushed his chest two or three times. Steven then stated to me that while he was in his room Nolan was blocking the door way not allowing him to leave,” Taylor said. “Steven stated when he asked Nolan to move so he can exit the room Nolan stated to him to make me (sic all).”

Steven Hill’s wife, Renee, confirmed he heard the two arguing, but said she could not make out what the argument was about. She said she did see Steven and Nolan “chest pushing,” but denied seeing anything else.

Nolan Hill had reportedly left the residence prior to Taylor’s arrival.

Taylor reported he would be seeking arrest warrants against Nolan Stevens for simple battery under the Georgia Family Violence Act and false imprisonment.

Photo courtesy of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office

STAFF REPORT :::

The Spalding County Sheriff’s Office on Saturday night located and rescued seven hikers lost in the woods during what officials are describing as a fraternity initiation.

Deputies at 10:44 p.m. learned that seven men had been reported missing in the 800 block of Baptist Camp Road.

Upon arrival, deputies were contacted by Austin Grant, who reported that he and approximately 40 to 45 other University of Georgia students were on a camping trip when seven students decided to go hiking in the woods at around 8:30 p.m.

It was reported that none of those seven students took a flashlight or cellphone on the hike.

When the hikers did not return, the remaining students searched for approximately two hours, but were unable to locate them. They were then reported missing to 911.

Because the temperature was cold and dropping with intermittent sprinkling rain, the hikers were not dressed appropriately for those conditions and they were without water or shelter, Sheriff Darrell Dix activated the Aviation Unit (STAR) to conduct an air search for the missing students.

While a grid search of the area was being conducted a small campfire was located several hundred feet in the woods, just under a mile away from where the hike began.

Deputies on the ground were guided to the area by STAR and all seven hikers were located huddled around the fire they had built.

They were cold and wet, but otherwise unharmed.

Officials say that in interviews after the rescue, it was learned the students became lost while participating in a fraternity initiation, during which they were not allowed to have cell phones, flashlights or other personal items.

“The actions of the initial responding deputies, investigators, and deployment of STAR piloted by Chief Deputy Tony Thomason, with Captain Joe Peavy acting as Tactical Flight Officer, resulted in this successful ending. This whole incident was the result of a fraternity initiation that put the students that were missing in a potentially dangerous situation due to the fact that all the students involved underestimated the weather,” said Sheriff Darrell Dix. “They forget how fast something that was meant to be funny can turn into a serious situation.”

Don Hawbaker Feb. 4, 2020, booking photo courtesy of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office

STAFF REPORT :::

In a letter in which he referred to Commissioner Don Hawbaker as “a threat to the community and menace to society” whose actions “are worse than the actions of a gang member,” Spalding County Sheriff Darrell Dix requested Gov. Brian Kemp take steps to remove from office the elected official who remains in the Spalding County Jail, where he is being held without bond.

In a letter dated Feb. 12, Dix sought Hawbaker’s removal from office based on alleged illegal actions earlier in the month, specifically those detailed in four misdemeanor warrants – one for simple assault against his wife, Gayle Hawbaker, which was based on her report that her husband had pointed a handgun towards her, and three misdemeanor warrants for disorderly conduct against SCSO civilian employee Alicia Bolton, Maj. Dwayne Jones and Chief Deputy Tony Thomason. According to the three disorderly conduct arrest warrants, they were obtained based on reports that Don Hawbaker cursed when speaking on the telephone with Bolton and Jones, and that he cursed in a voice mail message left for Thomason.

In his letter to Kemp, Dix wrote, “On Tuesday February 4, 2020, my investigators met with Gayle Hawbaker and based on her statements and text messages, warrants were obtained for the arrest of Don Hawbaker. At the same time Mr. Hawbaker called the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office multiple times and verbally assailed several of my employees including at least three female civilian employees. In all, four misdemeanor arrest warrants were obtained on behalf of Gayle Hawbaker and my civilian staff.”

Dix then described in detail the standoff that resulted when deputies attempted to serve those arrest warrants on Don Hawbaker, including shots being fired and the use of the SCSO armored personnel carrier, which was driven through the front of the Hawbakers’ Sun City residence.

“On Wednesday February 5, 2020, Spalding County Commissioner Don Hawbaker appeared in front of Spalding County Magistrate Judge Rita Cavanaugh, (sic) Hawbaker has been charged with Simple Assault under the Georgia Family Violence statute, three counts of disorderly conduct for the ‘vile and egregious’ calls to my civilian staff members, and four counts of Aggravated Assault on Law Enforcement Officers for firing shots at my Deputies,” Dix wrote, adding that bond was then denied.

Dix, referring to prior claims alleging Don Hawbaker appeared to have been intoxicated during at least some of those prior incidents, said substance abuse should not be a defense for his actions.

“Spalding County Commissioner Don Hawbaker pointed a gun at his wife, shot at and attempted to murder my Deputies, pointed a gun at another Deputy causing that Deputy to shoot at him in fear of his own life, and showed belligerent behavior to my civilian staff. He believes, that in this incident and as demonstrated by past his (sic) behavior, that his is above the law and not accountable to anyone for his actions. That ended on February 4, 2020 and he should be held accountable just as anyone else would without the crutch of claiming intoxication or need of rehabilitation,” Dix wrote, then adding his view of Don Hawbaker’s actions. “I have been a law enforcement officer for 33 years and in my opinion, Don Hawbaker is a threat to the community and a menace to society. His actions are worse than the actions of a gang member. He is held to a higher standard as an elected official. He is entrusted with the governing of our community by the voters and taxpayers, and he tried to murder my Deputies.”

Dix has since received a response from Kemp’s office.

“On Wednesday February 12, 2020, the attached letter was delivered to Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. I am familiar with the process of removing an elected official from office but wanted to request that Governor Kemp act as soon as the law allows in this matter. I have also attached information from one of Governor Kemp’s staff attorneys, Tommy Ratchford, in response to the letter,” Dix said. “Mr. Ratchford wanted to let me know that Governor Kemp received my letter. He also stated that the process for this type of request is that if Spalding County Commissioner Don Hawbaker is indicted, the District Attorney will forward the indictment to the Governor. A review commission made up of the Attorney General and two County Commissioners from similar counties will review the case. If the review commission decides to suspend Hawbaker, his suspension will last through the entire appeal process, or until he is convicted of a felony. A felony conviction will immediately remove Hawbaker from office.”

Dix then addressed the issue of a grand jury presentment against Don Hawbaker, stating, “Since his arrest, another warrant has been obtained for Spalding County Commissioner Don Hawbaker charging him with an additional count of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer. Our plan is to also present 5 counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, each count being a felony charge, to a Grand Jury in addition to the other felony and misdemeanor charges he is already facing.”
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Read Sheriff Darrel Dix’s letter to Gov. Brian Kemp here:
Dix letter to Gov. Kemp
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Don Hawbaker will appear in Spalding County Superior Court on Thursday, Feb. 20, for a bond hearing.

SHEILA A. MATHEWS :::

Spalding County Senior Magistrate Judge Rita Cavanaugh has denied bond to Commissioner Don Hawbaker on five felony counts of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer.

Bond was granted on five separate misdemeanor charges.

The GRIP will publish a detailed article of the bond hearing later in the day.

STAFF REPORT :::

Four suspects have been arrested in connection with the alleged armed robbery of a Marco’s Pizza delivery driver.

Griffin Police Department Uniform Patrol Division officers were on Thursday night dispatched to Marco’s Pizza in response to the report of an armed robbery in the vicinity of Turner Street.

A delivery driver reported that he had been robbed at gunpoint while out on a delivery.
Officials say the driver said that an order had been placed with a delivery address of 603 Turner St. Upon arriving at that address, the driver saw a male standing on the porch.

The driver reported the man placed a gun to his head and demanded all the money in his possession, which was estimated between $100 to $200.

Authorities say that based on the description of the suspects and their clothing provided by the delivery driver, an officer of the Criminal Apprehension and Gang Enforcement (CAGE) Unit reported he had been out with the four subjects just prior to receipt of the call from Marco’s.

Additional officers responded to the area and four suspects were located, detained and transported to the GPD pending further investigation.

Two adults and two juveniles have been charged with armed robbery, aggravated assault and possession of a weapon during the commission of a crime.

Arrested were 19-year-old Djuan head, 18-year-old Andre Head, a 12-year-old male juvenile and a 15-year-old female juvenile.

Investigators also say they received information that will assist in the closure of another Turner Street armed robbery case reported last week, in addition to a similar incident that occurred outside city limits.

Additional charges and arrests are expected to be forthcoming.

“These incidents will not be tolerated and those who choose to commit these crimes will be pursued, charged and prosecuted,” said Chief Mike Yates.

STAFF REPORT :::

Griffin Fire-Rescue Chief Tommy Jones has announced his retirement after 32 years of service.

Jones joined the department Aug. 2, 1987, at the rank of firefighter. For the first three years of his career, Jones served in the old Station 1 – the historic Griffin City Hall – and rode on the tailboard of fire trucks that did not have cab seating.

After a short tour at Station 2 on North Expressway, Jones was in September 1991 promoted to fire inspector/lieutenant.

In 1994, Jones was promoted to fire marshal.

During his service as fire inspector and fire marshal, Jones attended the Georgia Police Academy where he received his Peace Officer Standards and Training Council mandate as a police officer for arson and explosives investigations.

Jones graduated from Mercer University in 1998 with a bachelor’s degree in communications.

He attended the Georgia Law Enforcement Command College at Columbus State University where he received a master’s degree in public administration.

Upon the Aug. 1, 2004, retirement of former Chief Willie Henley, Jones was first promoted to interim fire chief before permanently assuming that position in April 2005.

Jones had several major goals for the department including replacing the fleet of trucks to a more compliant and reliable state of readiness; relocating an aging Station 2, which was built in 1959, to a more modern facility that could accommodate the growing demands of the department; selecting a site for the construction of a training center; promoting higher education and advanced certifications among the ranks to increase professionalism and expanded services; elevating the department’s culture of safety and beginning to combat the growing problem of firefighter cancer; and improving the department’s ISO rating to lower insurance premiums.

Over his years of service to the Griffin community, Jones has far exceeded those initial goals.

In 2009, Griffin Fire-Rescue’s ISO rating went from a 3 to a 2. In 2015, the rating increased to the prestigious Class 1.

He oversaw the planning and transition of Station 2 from North Expressway to the SPLOST-funded complex on Ellis Road.

In October 2018, construction began on the Emergency Preparedness Training Center on Industrial Drive, and training at that location commenced in late 2019.

Under Jones’ leadership, Griffin Fire-Rescue has aggressively tackled the problem of firefighter safety by providing two sets of gear to each personnel, as well as implementing a new anti-cancer policy.

When Jones first became chief, he was the only person in the department with a college degree. In 2020 20 percent of the department’s personnel has either obtained or is in the process of acquiring their degrees in 2004, there were only two emergency medical technicians in the department. As of 2020, one-third of the department’s personnel are state certified search and rescue technicians.

Jones deployed Griffin Fire-Rescue personnel to assist in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the wildland fires in the Okefenokee Swamp and the G8 Summit at Sea Island, protecting President Bush and other world leaders.

The fleet of trucks now in use is some of the finest in the country with two aerials, two rescue squads, three engines, an all-terrain vehicle and accessory response equipment.
The city of Griffin has spent over $4 million during Jones’ tenure to update the fleet, which has improved response times and capabilities, as well as lowering maintenance costs.

Jones has also sought to assist new leaders in developing their professionalism and efficiency. In 2008, he co-founded the city of Griffin Leadership Development Institute and has overseen its 12 years of successful delivery.

Additionally, he worked with the University of Georgia-Griffin Campus and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to bring a 12-week executive certificate of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness to the local campus.

He was also the driving force behind the Gordon State College Weekend College bachelor degree program.

Jones is an avid writer and presenter who has secured more than $1 million in grant funds for the purchase of trucks and advanced rescue equipment. He is a frequent speaker on many leadership subjects and has published more than one dozen articles in national publications.

In 2005, he also published a book on children’s safety with his daughter.

Jones also holds a second master’s degree in security management and is an advanced EMT and a certified emergency manager through the Georgia Emergency Management Agency.

In 2015, he attended the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Md., and has trained at the Center for Domestic Preparedness, the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center and the New Mexico terrorist bomb school.

Jones served as the president of the Griffin-Spalding United Way and president of the Griffin Daybreak Rotary Club.

Jones is married to the former Kristin Parris and they have three children, Grayson, 28, Ragan, 25 and Max, 12, and their daughter-in-law is Emily Jones.

STAFF REPORT :::

A traffic stop conducted by the Griffin Police Department Special Investigation and Criminal Apprehension and Gang Enforcement (CAGE) Unit resulted in the arrests of three and the seizure of narcotics and firearms.

The initial traffic stop occurred Feb. 25, and led to the location of three grams of crack cocaine, 9.5 grams of methamphetamine and six grams of marijuana from two people.

Based on information provided during the traffic stop, the investigation continued and agents ultimately procured a search warrant for 203 Lexington Ave.

Execution of that search warrant resulted in the seizure of 9.5 grams of Ecstasy, 14.3 grams of cocaine, $1,371 in U.S. currency and two handguns.

Arrested were:

British Wyke, age 31, who was charged with possession of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of a Schedule I narcotic (Ecstasy), possession of a Schedule I narcotic with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana less than one ounce, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and violation of the Georgia Criminal Street Gang Act;

Waltavious Collier, age 30, who was charged with possession of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of a Schedule I narcotic (methamphetamine), possession of a Schedule I narcotic with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana less than one ounce, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and tampering with evidence; and

DeAsia White, age 21, who was charged with possession of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and tampering with evidence.

“The Griffin Police Department will remain ever vigilant with the pursuit of these gangsters and their associates wherever it takes us,” said Chief Mike Yates.

Feb. 21, 2020 booking photo courtesy of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office

SHEILA A. MATHEWS :::

Amanda Moore, the 34-year-old Spalding County woman and former deputy of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office who survived being shot in the head by her then 16-year-old daughter, has been arrested for domestic violence for the second time since that shooting.
____________________________________________________________________________________________
You can read about the domestic violence shooting incident here:
https://the-grip.net/2019/06/13/daughter-16-arrested-for-shooting-mother-an-scso-detention-officer/
____________________________________________________________________________________________
This latest incident was reported to the SCSO Feb. 21, by Moore’s boyfriend, 39-year-old Matt Napper.

According to Deputy M.D. Storey, Napper said Moore attacked him following a verbal dispute over a utility bill.

“He (Napper) stated he was in Amanda Moore’s bedroom, and they were arguing over the power bill. He stated, during the argument, he picked up two cigarette butts out of the ash tray, and Amanda Moore started hitting him,” Storey said. “He stated she hit him under his right eye. He stated after she hit him, she threw a pair of scissors at him.”

Storey reported that Napper had visible injuries including a “golf ball-sized lump” underneath his right eye and a line of swelling in the middle of the lump that appeared to be consistent with the handle of a pair of scissors.

“He also had a scratch that was bleeding on the right side of his neck, toward the back. He also had red marks on both sides of his neck,” said Storey. “He (Napper) state he wasn’t aware of the scratch to his neck or the red marks.”

Moore denied any knowledge of the incident.

“I made contact with Amanda Moore in her bedroom. She stated she wasn’t sure what Mathew Napper was talking about and denied the entire altercation,” Storey said.

Moore was arrested and transported to the Spalding County Jail where she remains in custody on a charge of battery under the Georgia Family Violence Act.

Moore was in October 2019 arrested on an that same charge related to an incident in which she was accused of attacking Charlotte Daniel, her elderly grandmother, by repeatedly striking her in the face.
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You can read about Moore’s initial domestic violence arrest here:
https://the-grip.net/2019/10/24/former-jailer-and-shooting-victim-arrested-in-domestic-violence-incident/
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Storey, who also responded to the October incident, said Moore made a video recording of herself striking Daniel.

SHEILA A. MATHEWS :::

The search for 84-year-old Willie Jo Greer, who has been missing since Monday, is ongoing. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has issued a Mattie’s Call for Greer, who is described as five feet five inches tall and weighing 150 pounds. She was last driving a green 2009 Kia Ronda.

Maj. Dwayne Jones, of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office, explained that a Mattie’s Call is similar to a Levi’s Call, which is issued for missing children.

“(Mattie’s Call) is for elderly patients, and in this case, she’s 84-years-old and has dementia,” Jones said. “From what I understand, she has been diagnosed with dementia, but I don’t know how advanced it may be.”

Family members reported Greer missing when she did not arrive home after being out Monday.

“The last time anyone heard from her was Monday and that was by telephone. We don’t have an exact location for where she was last seen. All we had was she called someone and said she was about 10 minutes from home,” Jones said. “The last phone ping that we were able to obtain had her in Lincolnton, Ga., which is over near Augusta, so we’ve obviously alerted the authorities over there. That’s close to South Carolina, so we’ve contacted authorities there, as well.”

However, authorities are no longer able to utilize her cell phone in their search.

“When you call her phone number, it goes directly into voice mail which typically indicates the phone has been powered down or the battery is dead,” Jones explained.
Jones said no additional information has been derived from monitoring her financial records.

“There’s been no activity on her bank card or any credit cards. There’s been no financial activity at all,” he said, adding that all possible steps are being taken to locate the missing woman. “She’s been entered into GCIC as being missing, and her car and tag number have been entered. We’re doing everything we possibly can, with the assistance of the GBI, to locate her.”

This is not the first time Greer has been missing.

“According to her family, she has a history of doing this on at least two other occasions, where she became disoriented and ended up in other cities,” Jones said. “There’s no indication of any foul play being involved. There’s nothing to lead us to believe that’s occurred at this point.”

Officials ask anyone who believes they may have seen Greer or her vehicle to contact their local authorities.

“We’re certainly concerned about her welfare and would like to locate her. She has family members who are concerned. They’re who contacted us. Anytime we hear of something like this, we’re concerned and just want to make sure they’re safe,” Jones said. “If she’s spotted, obviously notify law enforcement. If she contacts someone, we would certainly appreciate hearing from them. We just want to ensure she’s safe and well.”

STAFF REPORT :::

The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is working closely with state partners and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to prepare for a potential outbreak of the coronavirus identified as COVID-19 in the United States, including Georgia.

The goal is to quickly identify cases of COVID-19 and take the appropriate public health action to reduce its spread and protect the general public. It is important to note that at this time, the overall risk of COVID-19 to the general public remains low.

DPH Commissioner Kathleen E. Toomey M.D., M.P.H. is asking people to prepare for the potential spread of COVID-19 as they would prepare for other situations.

“We urge Georgians to prepare for hurricanes or flooding or take measures to prevent flu, so preparing for an outbreak of COVID-19 is no different,” Toomey said. “DPH is working to make sure our health systems, first responders and county health departments have the resources they need to respond to a COVID-19 outbreak.”

DPH already has a detailed pandemic flu plan that was developed in partnership with the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), the Georgia Department of Education (GBoE) and other state agencies and will be adapted for a COVID-19 outbreak in the state.

DPH has responded to other serious disease outbreaks, including Ebola and Zika virus and each instance has provided new insight and guidance and highlighted the need to be as prepared as we can be.

DPH Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) is providing information to the CDC, guidance about COVID-19 to all health care and hospital facilities throughout Georgia and holding weekly calls with the entire public health and hospital and health care community to update information and answer questions.

DPH epidemiologists are on-call 24/7 to help health care providers evaluate individuals presenting with symptoms of COVID-19 to ensure that possible cases are managed safely, support laboratory testing and implement recommendations from the CDC.

In the event of COVID-19 in Georgia, epidemiologists would also be monitoring outbreaks and recommending control strategies, including guidance regarding testing and isolation.

Should it become necessary, DPH may recommend appropriate community mitigation measures for affected communities, such as temporary closure of childcare facilities, schools, colleges and universities, school and workplace social distancing measures and the postponement or cancellation of mass gatherings.

Additionally, businesses should consider ways to implement strategies to reduce the impact of a potential COVID-19 outbreak on their workforce, including teleworking and cross-training employees on essential job functions.

The same measures that are urged to prevent the spread of any respiratory virus are increasingly important for all Georgians.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or use a tissue to cover it, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

The best prevention against the flu is vaccination. Flu is still widespread and active in Georgia and it is not too late to get a flu shot.

Passenger screening at Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport is ongoing. This is to identify people coming from China who may have been exposed to and are at risk of developing COVID-19, and to provide appropriate assessment and monitoring to protect the general public.

COVID-19 is rapidly evolving and guidance is subject to change. The preparations currently underway in Georgia are based on the best scientific information we have from the CDC. DPH will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation, and work with state partners and health care communities to incorporate the most up to date guidance in our planning and preparation efforts.

DPH will continue to update Georgians through our website https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus, our Facebook page and our Twitter account.

It is important to remember that the most accurate and timely information regarding this outbreak is available through DPH or the CDC’s website https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

The Georgia Department of Public Health is the lead agency in preventing disease, injury and disability; promoting health and well-being; and preparing for and responding to disasters from a health perspective. For additional information about DPH, please visit http://www.dph.ga.gov.

STAFF REPORT :::

Two cases of COVID-19, the respiratory infection caused by the novel coronavirus, have been confirmed in Georgia.

Gov. Brian Kemp, Georgia Department of Public Health Commissioner Kathleen Toomey M.D. and other state officials confirmed the cases involving two Fulton County residents. Both live in the same household and one recently returned from Italy.

Both have mild symptoms and are isolated in their home with other relatives in an effort to prevent the illness from spreading.

The Georgia Department of Public Health is working to identify any contacts who may have been exposed while the two individuals were infectious.

People who are identified as having been exposed will be contacted directly by a DPH epidemiologist and monitored for fever and respiratory symptoms.

Kemp on Monday night spoke with Vice President Mike Pence about the two confirmed Georgia cases.

The Governor’s Coronavirus Task Force was briefed via conference call at approximately 9:30 p.m. and at 10 p.m., a press conference was held with Kemp, State Epidemiologist Cherie Drenzek, Adjutant General Tom Carden, Georgia Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Director Homer Bryson and Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King.

“Our team has been working around the clock to prepare for any scenario. Already, state health officials have established contact with these individuals to gather more information, monitor their condition and determine any exposure,” Kemp said. “They are confident that our efforts to prepare for this moment have enabled us to manage these cases appropriately and minimize any risks moving forward. We remain in constant communication with our partners at all levels of government, and we will continue to update members of the public as information becomes available.”

Toomey stressed that officials believe the immediate risk to the general public remains low.

“We knew that Georgia would likely have confirmed cases of COVID-19, and we planned for it. The immediate risk of COVID-19 to the general public, however, remains low at this time,” Toomey said. I cannot emphasize enough the need for all Georgians to follow the simple precautions that DPH always urges to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.”

COVID-19 spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms appear within two to 14 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose and difficulty breathing. Those considered at risk for contracting the virus are individuals with travel to areas where there are ongoing outbreaks of COVID-19 or individuals in close contact with a person with COVID-19.

The public is advised of these best practices:

Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Stay home when you are sick.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces.

The flu remains widespread and active throughout Georgia, and authorities say it is not too late to receive the flu vaccine.

The flu shot does not protect against COVID-19, but it may prevent serious complications that require hospitalization and help prevent overburdening the health care system in the event of a COVID-19 outbreak.

If you have recently traveled to areas where there are ongoing outbreaks of COVID-19 and develop fever with cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel, or if you have had contact with someone who is suspected to have COVID-19, stay home and call your health care provider or local health department right away. Be sure to call before going to a doctor’s office, emergency room or urgent care center and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.

For updated information about COVID-19, please visit dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html.

For answers to frequently-asked questions, please visit cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.htm.

Booking photo courtesy of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office

STAFF REPORT :::

A Griffin man is in custody facing numerous narcotics related charges after a traffic stop conducted by the Griffin Police Department CAGE Unit.

According to a press release issued by the GPD, an agent of the Criminal Apprehension and Gang Enforcement Unit on Monday initiated a traffic stop, resulting in a man fleeing on foot.

Agents soon apprehended Illya Omarc Hightower.

A search of the vehicle allegedly resulted in the location of powder cocaine and pills identified as Percocet that officials say were packaged for distribution.

A search warrant for Hightower’s 218 Melrose Avenue residence was obtained.

Authorities say the search resulted in the seizure of additional Percocet pills, 11 grams of marijuana and 9.7 grams of crack cocaine.

Hightower has been charged with possession of a Schedule II narcotic, possession of a Schedule II narcotic with intent to distribute, possession of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of less than one ounce of marijuana and obstruction of a law enforcement officer.

“Our efforts to find and prosecute those that sell illegal narcotics in our community will not stop, and we will continue to pursue the drug dealers vigorously,” said Chief Mike Yates.

STAFF REPORT :::

The Georgia Department of Public Health is awaiting confirmation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on a positive test on a third COVID-19 patient in the state, this time located in Floyd County.

The initial testing was completed by the Georgia Public Health Laboratory on March 5.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) protocol requires test results be sent to that federal agency for confirmation.

Testing at most state laboratories, including Georgia, is just underway, and due to previous flaws in the test components sent to state laboratories, the CDC requires all presumptive positive results for COVID-19 be sent to them for verification.

Authorities say CDC results on this potential third Georgia patient is expected in the coming days.

“The CDC has not confirmed initial test results for this patient. DPH officials have requested expedited processing for an official determination,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “To prevent the spread of incomplete or inaccurate information, we encourage Georgians to rely on guidance from the CDC, the DPH and my office. We will continue to provide regular updates to keep the public informed and ensure the health and safety of families across our state.”

The DPH is working to identify any contacts who may have been exposed while the individuals were infections. People who are identified as having been exposed will be contacted directly by a DPH epidemiologist and monitored for fever and respiratory symptoms.

The risk of COVID-19 to the general public remains low.

All Georgians are asked to follow basic prevention measures.

Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.

If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Stay home when you are sick.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces.

If you have recently traveled to areas where there are ongoing outbreaks of COVID-19 and you develop fever with cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel or if you have had contact with someone who is suspected to have COVID-19, stay home and call your health care provider or local health department right away.

Call first before going to any doctor’s office, emergency room or urgent care center and tell them about your recent travels and symptoms.

STAFF REPORT :::

One person was killed and three others were injured in a wreck that occurred Friday evening in Pike County.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Office responded to the wreck on Highway 362 at Williamson/Zebulon Road at 6:34 p.m.

Investigators say a GMC Sierra was attempting to turn left onto Williamson/Zebulon Road when it struck a Nissan Sentra head on.

The Nissan was waiting to enter Highway 362 when it was struck.

The driver of the Nissan, 53-year-old Traci Durham, of Hollonville, was deceased at the scene.

The driver of the GMC, Jennyvelisse Womack, her husband and son were transported to the Emergency Department of WellStar Spalding Regional Hospital.

The investigation into this incident is ongoing.

STAFF REPORT :::

The Georgia Department of Public Health reports additional cases of COVID-19 – the illness caused by the newest strain of coronavirus – in multiple counties.

According to a press release issued Saturday, there have been “a number of developments overnight regarding COVID-19 in Georgia.”

The DPH and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have confirmed two additional cases of COVID-19. Testing was done by the CDC prior to the Georgia Public Health Laboratory (GPHL) having the capacity to test for this specific strain of the coronavirus.

One individual is from Cobb County and recently returned from Italy and is isolated at home.

The second individual is from Fulton County and is hospitalized. The source of this individual’s exposure is currently unclear.

Additionally, DPH officials are awaiting confirmatory testing on a presumptive positive test for COVID-19 in a resident of Gwinnett County. The initial testing was completed by GPHL March 6. The individual recently returned from Italy and was self-monitoring at home. They are now isolated at home.

CDC testing has confirmed the presumptive positive test for COVID-19 in a resident of Floyd County. The original testing was done by GPHL March 5. That individual is hospitalized.

“Federal and state officials continue to work closely together to conduct testing and determine the extent of exposure for confirmed cases of COVID-19. The risk to Georgians remains low. We ask Georgians to stay vigilant, utilize best practices to mitigate health risk, and remain calm,” Kemp said.

Toomey stressed the importance of utilizing measures to prevent the spread of illnesses.
“DPH is prepared to mitigate the spread of this virus in our state, and we are aggressively working to identify anyone who may have had contact with these individuals,” said Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., M.P.H., DPH commissioner. “Despite these new cases, the overall risk of COVID-19 to the general public remains low; but each new case of COVID-19 in Georgia reinforces the fact we should all be practicing basic prevention measures that are extremely effective in limiting the spread of COVID-19 and all respiratory illnesses.”

Preventative measures include:

Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Stay home when you are sick.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Governor Brian Kemp and DPH Commissioner Kathleen Toomey M.D., M.P.H. reiterate that the overall risk to the general public remains low.

Officials say there is no evidence of community spread of COVID-19 in Georgia at this time.

If you have recently traveled to areas where there are ongoing outbreaks of COVID-19 and develop fever with cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel, or if you have had contact with someone who is suspected to have COVID-19, stay home and call your health care provider or local health department right away.

Before seeking treatment in a doctor’s office, emergency room, or urgent care center, call and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.

For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, please visit dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirusor cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html.

You may find answers to frequently asked questions at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html.

STAFF REPORT :::

Dozens of passengers who have been onboard a cruise ship off the California coast will soon be in Georgia, where they will be quarantined and undergo testing for COVID-19, the illness caused by the latest strain of coronavirus.

Governor Brian Kemp has announced that 34 Georgians will be transferred from that ship to a military base.

“I have learned that 34 Georgians and additional American citizens from the eastern United States who are currently on the Grand Princess cruise ship off the California coast will be securely transferred to Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta, Georgia. These passengers will undergo testing and be quarantined for possible exposure to COVID-19. They are expected to arrive at Dobbins late Monday, March 9 or early Tuesday, March 10,” Kemp said in a statement following a federal briefing. “I am confident that Dobbins is equipped to provide high-quality care for Americans in need while keeping Georgia families safe, and our state stands ready to assist our federal partners if requested. In the days and weeks ahead, I encourage Georgians to pray for the patients affected by COVID-19 and their healthcare providers. We must continue to support one another, trust the advice of the medical community and remain vigilant. My office remains in constant communication with the Trump Administration, lawmakers, and state and local officials to ensure the health and safety of families across Georgia and our country. We will continue to provide updates as soon as they become available.”