Guide to Towns County’s Independence Day events
Community, News July 2, 2019
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Independence Day is quickly approaching, and Towns County will feature several events to celebrate America’s freedom. The Lake Chatuge Boat Parade is scheduled to launch the festivities, Thursday, July 4. “Boaters line up in the Sunset Bay Cove behind Aqua Tiki, the Grand Marshal, for the parade beginning at 10:30 am,” Towns County Chamber of Commerce said. “No wake, and boats must fly a U.S. flag. Additional patriotic decorations are encouraged. Boats must have a number issued to be considered for judging. A $50 prize will be awarded for most creatively decorated boat, and also for the most red, white and blue. Boats will parade past the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, under Anderson Bridge, and past the Hiawassee Beach area before disbanding. Judges will be positioned at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds.” Winners will be announced July 4 at 2 pm on the “Towns County and Lake Chatuge Chamber of Commerce” Facebook page.
Brasstown Valley Resort invites the public to bring blankets and lawn chairs to view a complementary fireworks presentation from the golf course. In addition, the resort will host a Star Spangle Banner BBQ. “This July 4th, catch that patriotic feeling here at Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa. Join us at our annual Fourth of July Cookout located at the Sunset Pavilion from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm…Our annual Independence Day Fireworks display will begin at dark and our Sunset Pavilion is the perfect place to view the show.”New information on Towns County Sheriff’s Office training discovered
News May 17, 2019
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – FetchYourNews (FYN) opened an investigation into the death of Terry Samuel Silvers, a father of six known to suffer from substance abuse, shortly after an accident claimed the Hiawassee resident’s life Saturday, Feb. 23, 2019. The fatal collision left two victims injured, an eyewitness traumatized, and the community questioning whether Towns County Sheriff’s Office should have done more to prevent the tragedy.
Towns County Deputy Corporal Gregory Joseph responded to two prior accidents involving Silvers, releasing the now-deceased on both occassions without charges, despite widespread knowledge of Silvers’ drug use, and testimonies from several witnesses who claimed Silvers was obviously under the influence of intoxicants at the time of both incidents.
New information recently updated by Georgia’s Peace Officer’s Standards and Training (POST) reveals that the deputy in question attended six hours of drug-impared detection training through the Prosecuting Attorney’s Council of Georgia (PAC) a week prior to a late-November, 2018, roll-over accident involving Silvers. As in the case of a subsequent incident in which Deputy Joseph responded, occurring on the evening before Silvers’ death, Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) was conducted, a test which does not properly indicate drug impairment.
A two-day Advanced Roadside Impairment Detection Enforcement (ARIDE) course for law enforcement is scheduled in Hiawassee next week. According to a document obtained by FYN on May 16 from the Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC), there is no record of Towns County Sheriff’s Office deputies listed as upcoming participants. Of note, four Hiawassee police officers plan to attend the training, two of whom trained in the past.
During the course of our investigation, FYN conducted numerous interviews with former deputies of the Towns County Sheriff’s Office who unanimously cited lack of training and leadership as reasons for their resignations.
As seen in Corporal Joseph’s body camera footage from Nov. 27, witness Belinda Munger is heard telling the deputy that Silvers had a habit of driving under the influence of intoxicants, posing a danger to innocent citizens. Also in question is a telephone call answered by the responding deputy during the incident.
“I was woken up to the sound of shattering glass,” Munger told FYN, shortly after Silvers’ death. “I jumped out of bed, ran to my kitchen to see what was going on. I looked out my window and saw Terry’s truck hanging off my bank, almost going through my mother’s house. I called 911 while putting my shoes on to head out the door. Terry had gotten off in the ditch, taken out the neighbor’s mailbox, continuing down the ditch, hitting tree stumps which caused his truck to flip. He was so heavily medicated, he did not realize that he had even flipped his truck.
“He asked if someone could pull his truck out so he could go home. Officer Joseph arrives on scene. I explained what had happened and let them know that it was obvious; he was under the influence of pills. The officer asked Terry for his ID. Terry stumbles to get to his vehicle, where he searched for a long while for his ID and insurance. I asked the officer if he saw Terry stumbling as he walked to his vehicle, but the officer did not even acknowledge what I said. Another officer arrived on scene and I advised him of what was going on, also that they needed to test him. I was very open with letting them know how ridiculous it was that they did not think anything was wrong with Terry. It was very obvious, he couldn’t even hardly keep his eyes open and was slurring his speech.
“The ambulance arrived, and Terry refused to let him transport or check him,” Munger continued. “They as well could tell he was medicated and nothing would be done. The other officer advised Officer Joseph that I was upset, and that I wanted him tested. Officer Joseph came back to tell me he had checked out fine, but I knew different. Then, I asked both officers, ‘Will it take him killing someone for you all to do something with him?’ I told them how ridiculous it was that, once again, they were letting him go free knowing how he was under the influence of pills… Later that day, I reached out to Sheriff Clinton one last time, and left a message with his secretary. But like usual, there was no attempt of a return phone call from the sheriff.” Munger can be heard in the video, telling the deputy that Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton should be contacted before Silvers’ “kills someone.”
Approximately three months later, the evening prior to the fatal crash, Silvers was involved in an additional accident on Bugscuffle Road in which Deputy Joseph responded. Again, Silvers was released by Towns County Sheriff’s Office. The property damaged in the Feb. 22, belongs to neighboring Union County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant Daren “Bear” Osborn. “Based on my training and experience, 32 years, I recognized (Terry) was in no shape to drive due to his condition,” the off-duty deputy explained in March. “What strikes me as odd is that an alco sensor and HGN was done which does not indicate drug use.” Osborn described Silvers as exhibiting confused behavior while showing evident signs of impaired judgment.
An “alco sensor” is commonly known as breathalizer. Family members and friends of Silvers stated that Terry was not a drinker, but recognized in the community and to law enforcement as an opioid user. North Carolina Medical Examiner’s Office did not perform a post-mortem screen on Silvers for narcotics, however, opting to only conduct ethanol testing for alcohol.
John Bagley, a witness who spoke with FYN shortly after the tragedy agreed with Lt. Osborn, stating that Silvers was clearly unfit to drive on the night prior to his death. “(Terry) wrecked right across from my house,” Bagley said. “He was in no shape to be driving. I think there should have been additional tests done. It could have saved his life.”
WXIA – 11 (11Alive News) will broadcast a televised investigation into Terry Silvers’ death, beginning Tuesday, May 21, at 11 pm. An in-depth segment will follow Sunday, May 26.
Below is the disturbing 911 audio previously released by FYN from the night of the fatal crash…
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23f_zncSj5g[/embedyt]
Clinton receives unfavorable response to campaign announcement
Opinion September 22, 2019
EDITORIAL – Mountain Movers and Shakers announced Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton will be their featured speaker at the group’s weekly meeting, Sept. 27. The agenda follows the sheriff’s proclamation before the Towns County Republican Party last week, stating intent to seek re-election in 2020.
If the public’s initial response to the elected official’s announcement is any indication of an approval rating, Clinton’s campaign could prove to be a challenge.
“Perhaps (Sheriff Clinton) will fill us in on the events and expected traffic for the next few months,” Mark Wolchko, a spokesman for Mountain Movers and Shakers, predicted in a press release. “Maybe he will enlighten us about the latest CLEA class. Possibly he will let us know about equipment upgrades in the sheriff’s department. Or maybe he will give us the lowdown on the next appearance of The Chris Clinton Band.”
CLEA, an acronym for the Citizen Law Enforcement Academy, consists primarily of “move-in” retirees whom Sheriff Clinton has referred to as personal “lobbyists” in the past. The group additionally serves as charity fund raisers and security staff at local events, such as concerts at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds.
The majority of Mountain Movers and Shakers’ active participants are CLEA alumni.
Sheriff Clinton shined a spotlight on CLEA during his GOP campaign announcement Thursday evening at the Towns County Civic Center.
“How many folks here have been through CLEA? Do you mind raising your hands? Every group I go to in the county, everywhere we go, I got people sitting in the group that’s been through the citizen law enforcement academy,” Clinton said. “These volunteers, by the end of the year, we hit about 2,000 hours, or about what would amount to me having to ask our commissioner for the $51,000, if we were going to do it ourselves, is being done by volunteers because we have men and women who believe in what we’re doing at the sheriff’s office.”
Should Clinton choose to promote his band at Friday’s meeting, however, citizen feedback could prove less than favorable.
Sheriff Clinton performing on town square in July 2018.
Widespread disapproval of The Chris Clinton Band’s schedule was brought to FetchYourNews’ attention in relation to the 2017 “Great American Eclipse,” an event that was anticipated by Clinton to draw thousands of solar enthusiasts to the Towns County area. Sheriff Clinton, who performs with his wife in the now two-man band, opted to host a concert at a local establishment during the highly publicized event. Members of the Towns County Homeowners’ Association – since renamed the Towns County Civic Association – along with numerous first responders, voiced stern criticism toward Clinton’s priorities.
Promotion for the Chris Clinton Band’s 2017 eclipse event.
Scrutiny later emerged in July 2018, following a band performance that corresponded with a deputy missing in action, along with a county inmate, during a wilderness search for alleged human remains near Brasstown Bald.
Public comments concerning the Clintons’ “small business” and the sheriff’s elected performance continue to appear on social media in response to the official’s recent bid for re-election.
Click to read comments and view reactions on original post.
While no contenders for the Office of the Sheriff have entered the race at this time, challengers are expected to announce candidacy in coming weeks.
Sheriff Clinton is scheduled to address Mountain Movers and Shakers this Friday at 8 a.m. at Sundance Grill in Hiawassee.
Meetings are open to the public.
Feature Image: Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton draws tickets for door prizes at Thursday’s GOP meeting.
Public officials share positive outlook at “Eggs & Issues” breakfast
News May 30, 2019HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Towns County Chamber of Commerce hosted an annual “Eggs and Issues” breakfast, Wednesday, May 29, at Daniel’s Steakhouse in Hiawassee. A crowd of approximately 50 signed up to dine, buffet style, while listening to public leaders address community matters. Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw, Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales, Young Harris Mayor Andrea Gibby, Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton, and Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith were invited to meet with the citizens.
Commissioner Bradshaw opened the event by sharing that the county budget is in good health, with a $3.1 million reserve fixed in place. Due to past, excessive rainfall, construction efforts were needed in an area that caused a storage building to buckle at Foster Park in Young Hsrris, the commissioner reported, although taxpayers’ funds were minimal due to a generous contractor who offered assistance to lower costs. An insurance check in the amount of $23,000 was issued in response to the damage of the building. Bradshaw shared that sales taxes have increased by $28,000 from this time last year, a testimony to the booming business of local tourism. The commission said that he believes the city governments are in line with the county’s goals. “We don’t want to lose small town values, and small town feel,” Bradshaw stressed.
Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales welcomes guests to the event
Next to speak was Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales who, in part, addressed the city’s strategic plan, calling it a “driving force.” Ordiales said that the next project on the list is to make Lloyd’s Landing, where the boat ramp was located prior to Mayors’ Park, a “kid-friendly, fun, family area.” The mayor filled the diners in on the Friday movies and Saturday evening music summer series on Hiawassee Town Square, announcing that 250 music lovers attended opening night, Memorial Day weekend. “We all came here because we wanted a small town…” Mayor Ordiales reminded. “Wouldn’t it be nice to have every, single storefront filled? That’s my target.”
Young Harris Mayor Andrea Gibby promoted the city’s North Georgia Highlands Seafood Festival, scheduled for this weekend. Gibby addressed the anticipated road construction which will soon begin in western Towns County. “The construction process will be awful, but in the end I think it’s going to be very good for us,” the mayor assured. Gibby said that the citizens of Young Harris are in agreement as to how the development of the city unfolds, saying the residents strive for a “community and sense of belonging,” adding that “eveyone seems to want a village.”
Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton spoke on the security at the courthouse, detention center procedures, and the recently completed mass “Operation Trial Run” drug round-ups, which landed 53 arrests and over $300,000 in monetary and property seizures. The sheriff noted the local C.H.A.M.P.S. program, the importance of accountabilty in reference to drug court, and praised the volunteer efforts of the Citizen Law Enforcement Academy (CLEA) graduates. Clinton divulged that the inmates currently housed at the Towns County Detention Center are all repeat offenders. “I think we need less laws, and put the teeth back in the laws.” Sheriff Clinton said, referring to himself as “compassionate” and “a results, goal-orientated, type person.”
Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton at Wednesday morning’s discussion
“We haven’t had the best history of sheriff’s in the past,” Clinton said, calling the statement an “historical fact.” The county’s chief officer informed that he does not see his detractors in attendance at community events, such as the sheriff’s office fundraisers, while adding, “I don’t think any of us are claiming to be perfect. I’m certainly not.” Sheriff Clinton concluded with praise for the department’s deputies and their retention record. “We haven’t had a single patrol officer in over two years go anywhere.”
Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith wrapped up the forum, relaying that he is one of five officers on the city department. “I still work the roads. I still answer calls,”Smith said, noting that having a recently-added fifth officer allows time to tend to administrative duties. Smith stressed the importance of justice and service to the community, and expressed gratitude for two patrol vehicles which were donated by the local Lions Club and a Florida poice division. The chief touched on the annual “Shop with a Hero” program which provides holiday gifts for financially challenged children in Towns County.
In attendance was Towns County Fire Chief Harold Copeland who warned of wildfire dangers, and asked the community to kindly pull to the shoulder of the roadway when emergency vehicles approach, with lights flashing and sirens sounding. Copeland additionally serves as the county coroner, and mentioned the importance of carrying identification with information on next of kin, along with predetermining a preference of funeral homes.
Overall, the theme of the event was overwhelming positive from the public officials involved, and in terms of attendance, the Towns County Chamber of Commerce deemed the breakfast discussion a success.
Feature Image: Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw, speaking to the citizens of Towns County
Deputy’s administration of Narcan prevents overdose death
News April 11, 2019
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Opioid abuse is a far-reaching epidemic in the United States, and Towns County is no stranger to the adverse affects. Opioids are a class of drugs which include prescription painkillers, such as OxyContin, in addition to illicit heroin. An opioid overdose can be deadly, and the primary signs that death may be imminent includes slowed or ceased breathing, pinpoint pupils, and unconsciousness or non-responsiveness. In some cases, symptoms of an opioid overdose involves limpness, pale or clammy skin, a purple or blue tint to fingernails and lips, and vomiting.
On April 4, Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton awarded a local deputy for her actions in preventing the death of an overdose victim with the use of naloxone, a medication also known as Narcan, which reverses the effects of an opioid overdose.
“On January 26, 2019, Corporal (Lisa) Joseph was dispatched to an overdose call at a residence in northwest Towns County,” Towns County Sheriff’s Captain Jim Couch stated. “Upon arriving, she was greeted by the home owner and a small child, the owner stated that a friend had come to the residence while he was away and was found inside the residence, sitting in a chair and was in a comatose condition. He believed the friend had overdosed on a narcotic. He further stated he was aware that the friend was a drug user and stated he may have taken an overdose of heroin or some other type of narcotic drug.
“Corporal Joseph located the person, a 26 year old male, who was seated inside and appeared to have low signs of life. She found that he had an excessive pulse and she could not awaken him. The dispatched emergency medical personnel had not arrived yet, so she performed s sternum rub with no response. Corporal Joseph, fearing that the male was in immediate danger, administered a single dose of the agency-supplied Narcan by injection into a nostril. Corporal Joseph continued to try to awaken the male and after approximately thirty 30 seconds, the male opened his eyes and appeared to be coming out of the comatose state. Upon the arrival of emergency medical personnel, Corporal Joseph notified those personnel of her actions relating to the administering of the Narcan product. After speaking with emergency medical personnel that were on the incident scene it was determined that the actions of Corporal Joseph did in fact cause an immediate change in the male and did halt further damage that the drug ingested would have caused, including death. In their words, ‘She save that man’s life’.”
When administered, opioids bind to the brain’s receptors, affecting the functionality of the central nervous system as a result. More specifically, they depress or slow the functions of the central nervous system, decreasing respiration. An overdose occurs when the dose of opioids is higher than what the body and brain can tolerate, and breathing slows to a dangerous level or stops altogether. According to medical professionals, it is important, even with the use of Narcan, for people who experience an opioid overdose to receive immediate, emergency treatment. Opioid overdoses can lead to not only death, but can result in permanent mental and physical damage.
Feature Photo: (L-R) Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton, Cpl. Lisa Joseph, Capt. Jim Couch
Brother of victim claims Sheriff’s Office could have prevented fatal accident
News March 1, 2019
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Terry Silvers, 52, a resident of Hiawassee, suffered fatal injuries Saturday, Feb. 23, in Clay County, NC, after the pickup truck that he was driving collided with another vehicle on NC-69. FYN released information three days after the deadly crash, divulging that Silvers had been involved in an accident in Towns County the night prior to his death.
Towns County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Friday evening incident on Bugscuffle Road, and Silvers was released without charges. The accident report stated that alcohol or substance screenings were not conducted. Towns County Sheriff’s Office reported that the accident was the result of shifting firewood in the bed of Silvers’ truck.
Multiple individuals contacted FYN to speak on behalf of Silvers, two of whom requested to go on-record, asserting that they believe Silvers would still be alive had local law enforcement reacted to prior incidents in a different manner.
“Towns County Sheriff’s Office needs to be investigated,” Mark Silvers, brother of the victim, began. “Not only did Terry wreck the night before. but there were more times before that. Towns County law was on scene, and my brother was let go. He should have been locked up. People were telling them that he was messed up, and if they’d done their job the night before the fatal night, my brother would be alive. Towns County law should be fully responsible for his death. If they’d done their job and locked him up Friday night, my brother would still be with us today. He’s been let go many times.”
Most recent social media profile photograph of Terry Silvers
Mark Silvers went on to say that his brother battled an opioid addiction. “Even though he wasn’t drunk, the law should have known he was on drugs. A lot people told them, ‘What was it going to take? Him to kill someone or kill himself before they do something?’ and by that time, it was too late.”
Silvers iterated that numerous individuals had conveyed to Towns County Sheriff’s Office on multiple occassions that Terry Silvers was under the influence of narcotics, and that Silvers should not return behind the wheel without facing legal consequences.
Belinda Munger, a former Towns County 911 dispatcher and neighbor of Silvers, additionally contacted FYN, stating that Silvers had a history of drug use and accidents. On different occassions, Munger stated that Towns County Sheriff’s Office responded to accidents which Silvers was involved, although the now-deceased was not taken into custody. Munger reported that in December, 2017, Silvers was involved in an accident in front of her home. Munger said that she described what ensued to responding deputies. “We also had told them he was under the influence of pills and it was very obvious…,” Munger explained. “I was very distraught, had he not hit the tree, he would have ran into my house, into my son’s bedroom. The officers advised my neighbor, when she showed up, that they did not have to notify her, even though it was her property where he wrecked. I tried to reach out to (Towns County) Sheriff (Chris) Clinton, but there was no attempt of a returned phone call from him. Nothing more came of this call.”
Upon suggestion from a confidential source, FYN filed an open record request to review 911 audio of the “be-on-the-lookout” (BOLO) issued to Towns County Sheriff’s Office immediately prior to Silvers death.
Heather Segars, a local resident, called 911 to report Silvers’ white Toyota driving recklessly on Highway 76, immediately prior to the fatal accident. Throughout the audio, Segars pleads for law enforcement to quickly respond. “He’s gonna kill somebody” is repeated on the graphic tape.
In the recording, a blaring siren can be heard as Segars pulls behind Silvers into the parking lot of Cornerstone BP, at the intersection of Highway 76 and Highway 17, in Young Harris. “There’s the law right there that’s passing me,” Segar says, to which the dispatcher responds,”Yeah, they’re going to another call.” Segars then identified the driver as Terry Silvers. Segars continued to follow Silvers’ vehicle as it exited the Cornerstone BP parking lot, headed north on Highway 17 toward the Georgia-North Carolina state line, with Segars begging the dispatcher to remain on the line. “Please, they’ve got to hurry…I’ve got to make sure he gets pulled over,” Segar pleads in the dramatic audio, “Where are they at?!”
Law enforcement sketch of the incident on Bugscuffle Road, the night prior to the fatality
The emergency recording documents Segars pursuing Silvers into Clay County, NC. The 911 operator stated prior that Clay County Sheriff’s Office had been notified. “Are they close?” Segars asked, “He’s in other lanes, cars coming.”
Segars can be heard screaming and weeping as she witnessed the fatal accident occur near King’s Pharmacy, south of Hayesville. Silvers re-entered into the southbound lane of traffic, colliding head-on with another vehicle occupied by a grandmother and her granddaughter. The family sustained non-life threatening injuries. “Oh God, he’s dead…,” Segars is heard crying, “I tried to tell y’all to hurry!”
Segars told someone at the scene, “I’ve been on the phone with 911 since Hiawassee…Oh God, he’s dead. I’ve been on the phone since Papa’s Pizza.” A siren can be heard arriving at the scene of the accident as the tragic call ends.
According to emergency responders, Silvers died upon collision with the oncoming vehicle, the result of firewood ejecting into the cab of the Toyota pickup that he was driving. North Carolina Highway Patrol stated that Silvers did not appear to brake prior to impact, and that road conditions were not unfavorable at the time of the deadly crash. North Carolina Highway Patrol requested a toxicology screen on Silvers, and the investigation remains open. Results of the toxicology test are expected in coming weeks.
FYN contacted Towns County Sheriff’s Office, offering an opportunity to provide a response. A statement had not been received at the time of publication.
Towns County Sheriff fails to set record straight; alludes to rumors on social media
Opinion February 24, 2019HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Following repeated, failed attempts to obtain firsthand information from Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton, Fetch Your News (FYN) is obligated to report what we can confirm. Sheriff Clinton made it clear Feb. 22, that he has no intention of addressing the concerns of Towns County citizens if presented with questions by our investigative news team.
“You can tell them that Fetch Your News is not my mouth piece,” Clinton lashed when FYN requested to speak with the elected official in Hiawassee Friday morning. The comment followed ignored, emailed requests to meet with the leader. FYN was not provided an opportunity to pose any questions prior to the sheriff dashing out of the building. FYN has attempted to gain pertinent information from Sheriff Clinton on several topics of citizen importance for many months to no avail.
FYN maintains cordial relationships with the sheriffs in our 10 adjoining counties of coverage. Law enforcement officials in surrounding areas, including the city department, have proven to run transparent divisions, responding to requests for information when questions arise. While deputies and staff within the Towns County Sheriff’s Office make an earnest effort to inform the public, retrieving information from the sheriff himself has proven uneventful for FYN.
As strong supporters of law enforcement, it is FYN’s sincere regret to have reached this point in our reporting. When our organization receives overwhelming inquiries on the same subject matter, however, it is our policy to contact the individual in question in order to provide an opportunity to set the record straight, an invitation which FYN has diligently extended to Towns County’s lead officer.
It is never our intent to foster conflict in our dissemination of information, and FYN remains an open platform for public leaders to voice their views. While FYN stresses the innate difficulty attached in releasing this report, Sheriff Clinton’s uncooperative disposition branches beyond the scope of the media. FYN initially reported similar concerns regarding the sheriff”s disposition from multiple, local emergency agencies in March 2018, following a school lock-down drill. Critics referred to the operation as an ongoing “lone ranger” act by the elected official.
“Where is Sheriff Clinton?” is a resounding question that no one seems capable of answering, and one that the sheriff has refused to address in the past. Scrutiny regarding Sheriff Clinton’s lack of visibility as the county’s chief law enforcement officer, outside of speaking engagements, was brought to the attention of FYN by dozens of citizens, including members of the Towns County Homeowners Association (since renamed Towns County Civic Association), as early as 2017. While few will likely dispute that Clinton is anything less than a skilled public speaker, citizens and government employees attest to habitual absences from his offices and the field.
Unrelenting rumors regarding the sheriff’s activity began to swirl within the community in late 2018, with a multitude of citizens continuing to contact FYN for accurate information. Sheriff Clinton’s reclusive and defensive nature led FYN to uncover themed-speculation from solid sources, prompting FYN to actively pursue direct contact with the lead lawman in expectation of quietly quelling the rampant hearsay.
Known for its accuracy, FYN does not engage in reporting unsubstantiated allegations. What is indisputable, however, is that Sheriff Clinton has refused to address the citizens on any matter through the region’s fastest growing news network. Coupled with Clinton’s denial to provide information on basic matters, it unfortunately leaves one to ponder what the public official may not want known.
Following the brief encounter with FYN, Clinton alluded to “rumors” and “facts” on social media Friday evening without providing substance. As an official who once stated that he prefers to “write my own news,” a blog that was launched by the sheriff in early December remains sparse of information.
It cannot be stated strongly enough that FYN is not validating any accusations directed toward the sheriff by publishing this piece. It is our duty, however, to provide the public with the information obtained. FYN harbors no ill will toward the public official, and will continue to hope for an outcome that will provide the citizens with the answers sought.
Despite ironclad evidence, Sheriff Clinton has been quick to parrot popular phrases in the past such as “fake news” and “drive-by media” as an alternative to accountability. It is anticipated that this report may garner a similar response from the constitutionally-elected officer.
FYN will continue to provide accurate information for the citizens that we serve should it become available.
Sheriff’s father publicly addresses rumors of drug rehab
News September 28, 2019HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton joined the Mountain Movers and Shakers Friday, Sept. 27, as the group’s featured speaker. Clinton, who officially announced a 2020 bid for re-election last week, launched his campaign by speaking on several topics. The sheriff spoke highly of his department, frequently contrasting the prior administration’s history which led to Clinton’s special election to office in 2007.
Following Clinton’s address, Michael Clinton – the sheriff’s father – publicly delivered an unprompted statement denying pervasive rumors that the elected official has attended treatment for drug addiction.
Michael Clinton asserted that the sheriff’s policies are not objectionable, comparing the opposition to that of President Trump’s, therefore critics have resorted to personal attacks.
“It’s lies. I can’t stand people just going around telling lies about people,” Michael Clinton told the sizeable crowd. “So anyways, when you hear this stuff, know what it is. They can’t attack what he’s doing, but that before and after thing, if you had before and after pictures, I tell you what, they’d be x-rated. Back in Towns County, it was always rut season in Towns County, especially in the sheriff’s office, and there’s a big difference, and you a made a big change.”
Rutting season is a time in the fall when deer mate. Sheriff Clinton interrupted to add that he has heard of deputies, under the previous administration, bragging about “rut season” to other agencies.
“Your personal life is your business, but if your personal life ever embarrasses the sheriff’s office, you’re fired,” Michael Clinton said. “And (my son’s) Christian character is above reproach, so if y’all hear this junk, don’t listen to it. So if you really want to hear what it is, come and ask me when you see me at Ingles or whatever, but be prepared to tell me who told you it.”
Beyond agreement with the “rut season” remark, Sheriff Clinton did not dispute nor affirm his father’s statement.
Following dozens of inquiries from concerned citizens, FetchYourNews offered Sheriff Clinton an opportunity in February to suppress the widespread rumors of drug rehabilitation in an effort to dispel hearsay.
Clinton declined to address the prevalent issue, opting to permanently cease communication with the news network.
Feature Image: Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton, speaking to the Mountain Movers and Shakers, Sept. 27, 2019.
Fetch Your News is a now news network that covers Towns, Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Rabun, and Murray counties in northern Georgia, as well as Cherokee and Clay counties in western North Carolina.
Fetch Your News attracts over 300,000 page views per month, 3.5 million impressions per month, and approximately 15,000 viewers per week on FYNTV.com with an up to 60,000 Facebook page reach.
If you would like to follow up-to-date local events in any of our counties of coverage, please visit us at FetchYourNews.com
Sheriff Clinton compares jail discipline to Marine Corps protocol
News September 13, 2019HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton took to the WJUL radio airways Friday, Sept. 13 to share his favorable views on California’s legislation to ban private prisons. Sheriff Clinton included information on discipline requirements for inmates detained at the Towns County Detention Center.
Sheriff Chris Clinton
“When you walk back into one of our pods, the inmates snap to attention,” Clinton said. “They announce attention on deck. It’s like a Marine Corps parade deck. Head and eyes straight forward, thumbs on the side, on the seam of their trousers. They’re not allowed to follow you with their eyes, first and last things out of their mouth better be sir or ma’am. And we do that for a reason. It’s a security thing. Inmates fight when they’re scared. As our jail commander likes to tell folks when we bring them through a tour of our jail, they don’t fight in our jail because in our jail, an inmate would have to ask permission to fight first, and we’re not going to give it to them so they don’t just even bother.”
Towns County’s sheriff additionally voiced support for California’s recent bill to abolish private prison facilities, which if signed as expected by California Governor Gavin Newsom, will prohibit the state government from entering into or renewing contracts with private, for-profit prisons to incarcerate state inmates.
“The way the Constitution works, when you’re housing an inmate – like the sheriff, if I house that inmate somewhere else – I’m still responsible for that inmate, and so I’m not a fan of turning the responsibility of the inmate over to some private sector that has no duty. The sheriff has a duty to keep these inmates safe. I just don’t think it’s good,” Clinton said.
According to research, The Georgia Department of Corrections holds current contracts with two private prison companies: Corrections Corporation of America and the GEO Corporation. The facilities are contracted to house a total of 7,974 offenders in four private facilities.
Feature Image: Towns County Detention Center
Whereabouts of Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton still in question
News May 22, 2019
HIAWASSEE, Ga – “Where is Sheriff Clinton?” has been a resounding question in the community for many months, if not years, and it is an inquiry no one seems capable, or willing, to answer. FetchYourNews (FYN) began looking into the schedule of Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton in late February after rumors began to swirl on the lead lawman’s whereabouts, leading to an editorial article which unfortunately offered little insight. Three months later, the query into how the elected official spends his time mostly remains a mystery.
Sheriff Chris Clinton’s on-duty call log hours from March, 2018 to March, 2019
“In reference to your open records request, the Office of Sheriff does not maintain a calendar for the sheriff. The sheriff’s wife maintains a family calendar that the sheriff appears on. The sheriff is the only person who can provide the information requested. It is estimated that the request will require 91.25 hours of the sheriff’s time at the sheriff’s hourly rate of $7.38/hour to perform the task requested. The estimate is based on retrieval and printing for redaction, redacting, and scanning into an electronic form.
“There are an estimated 365 pages of material to be printed at $0.10 / page,” Clinton continued. “Estimated cost to fulfill the request: Sheriff’s time to access, retrieve, print, redact, and scan to electronic form per your request — approximately 91.25 hours @ $7.38/hour = $ 673.43 (You will not be charged for the first 15 minutes.) 365 pages @ $0.10 / page = $36.50. Total estimated cost = $709.93.”
11Alive Chief Investigator Brendan Keefe’s social media page
In lieu of paying what FYN considered an excessive fee for public information, FYN sent an additional request to the Towns County Sheriff to visually review the original copy of the elected official’s appointments, a request which went ignored. On FYN’s third attempt, which was carbon copied to 11Alive News in Atlanta, Towns County Sheriff’s Administrator Vicki Ellis referred FYN to Towns County Sheriff’s Executive Secretary Shirley Clinton, the sheriff’s mother, who scheduled an appointment to review the calendar housed in the sheriff’s courthouse office.
An inspection of the calendar on May 22 proved futile as page after page revealed no entries. Occassional meetings appeared, along with multiple, weekly radio station appearances, and mandatory training engagements. Citizen Law Enforcement Academy (CLEA) appointments were listed throughout, a group which consists primarily of retired residents that the sheriff has referred to in the past as personal “lobbyists.”
An entry on the sheriff’s sparse calendar
11Alive News completes investigation into Towns County Sheriff’s Office involvement in fatal crash
News May 15, 2019
HIAWASSSEE, Ga. – Nearly twelve weeks after a North Carolina motor vehicle accident left one man dead, two victims injured, and an eyewitness traumatized, WXIA-TV 11 (11Alive News) in Atlanta, in cooperation with FetchYourNews (FYN), has completed an in-depth investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic event. A broadcast is expected to be televised on WXIA-TV 11 in coming days. The initial segment is scheduled for release Tuesday, May 21, at 11 pm. A detailed report will follow Sunday, May 26.
On the evening of Saturday, Feb. 23, a head-on vehicle collision took the life of Terry Samuel Silvers, a Hiawassee native, leaving a grandmother and granddaughter wounded, and Heather Segars, a good samaritan who attempted to prevent the deadly crash by summoning Towns County authorities, devastated. Public outrage flared upon learning the facts surrounding the fatal collision, prompting the Atlanta-based news channel to conduct a dual investigation.
Copy of Terry Silvers’ toxicology report
Renowned WXIA-TV 11 Chief Investigator Brendan Keefe contacted FYN shortly after the viral-release of the 911 audio recording in which the frantic caller, Heather Segars, pleads for law enforcement to respond to an erratic driver, later identified to dispatchers as Terry Silvers, while headed westbound on State Route 76 in Young Harris, GA. A Towns County Sheriff’s Office cruiser’s siren can be heard bypassing distraught Segars, who pursued Silvers’ vehicle across the state line until the time of the fatal impact, in response to a previous call which two officers had adequately covered.
The deputy in question, Corporal Gregory Joseph – also known as officer “112” – responded to two prior accidents involving Silvers, one of which occurred the night before the fatal crash. Despite testimony from numerous witnesses who stated Silvers clearly appeared to be impaired – including an adament account from an on-scene, veteran law enforcement officer from a neighboring county – Silvers was again released to return to the roadways without facing charges. According to Georgia’s Police Officer Standard Training (POST) records, Corporal Joseph has never participated in roadside drug-detection training, nor has the deputy received sufficent DUI training in over a decade.
Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton issued a statement to the county’s legal organ in the weeks following the highly controversial accident, denying departmental responsibilty, much to the dismay of many of the citiizens the lead lawman had sworn to serve.
FYN recently received a requested copy of Silvers’ toxicology report from the North Carolina Medical Examiner’s Office which revealed Silvers did not have alcohol in his system at the time of his death. A screening for additional substances was not conducted, however, despite widespread knowledge that Silvers battled an opioid addiction. Family, friends, and law enforcement officers attested that Silvers was a well-known substance abuser in the community. North Carolina authorities stated that in the event of a death when the manner is apparent – such as a vehicle fatality – toxicology screenings are typically limited to alcohol detection.
FYN spoke with 911 caller Heather Segars on the morning of May 15, inquiring into her current thoughts and condition.
“I’m holding on with a very thin rope every day,” Segars shared. “I still have anxiety today. I’ve had to be put on Valium. Some days are better than others.” Segars said she holds Towns County Sheriff’s Office responsible for the cost of her psychiatric treatment and the lost wages which ensued as a result of the accident, but foremost, Segars said what she wants most is for Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton to be held accountable. “I want to know why Sheriff Clinton won’t take responsibilty. I would like to see change in the department. We deserve someone with experience on issues like this. I would like to see Clinton resign. I’d also like a public apology from his wife for posting unrelated things about my past under his social media account after the accident.”
FYN continues to offer a platform for the sheriff to comment.
Continue to follow FYN as the release of the WXIA-TV 11 investigation approaches.
Feature Image: Terry Silvers
Towns County Sheriff’s Office awarded state re-certification
News April 14, 2019
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton accepted the State of Georgia Law Enforcement Re-certification Award from Georgia Sheriff’s Association President Stacey Nicholson at the Towns County Courthouse. President Nicholson presented the award to Sheriff Clinton on behalf of the Towns County Sheriff’s Office in front of a courtroom filled with supporters and staff.
Georgia Sheriff’s Association President Stacey Nicholson with Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton
The State of Georgia Law Enforcement State Certification Award is presented to law enforcement agencies that currently meet approved standards. A team of assessors, who have received training conducting on-site evaluation assessments, ensured that the agencies being evaluated continue to meet the 139 approved standards. The on-site assessment typically consists of a two-day event conducted by three assessors. Towns County Sheriff’s Office is one of 23 sheriff’s offices, out of 159 counties within the state of Georgia, to hold state certification status.
State certified law enforcement agencies are required to undergo re-assessments every three years to maintain the certification. The State of Georgia Law Enforcement Certification was a goal Sheriff Clinton set for the Towns County Sheriff’s Office to meet. Sheriff Clinton and staff met and achieved that goal, receiving the initial award in October 2012, and has since received recertification two additional times; once in January, 2016, and recently on April 4. Towns County Sheriff’s Office Certification Manager Sandy Morgan also received an award from Georgia Sheriff’s Association President Stacey Nicholson for a “job well done”.
Towns County Chief Deputy Terry Connor said that the achievement of the state certification award was accomplished by the effort put forth by staff members of the Towns County Sheriff’s Office throughout the year.
VFW hosts second annual public service awards
News January 15, 2019HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Commander Bart Rodgers of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Garrett-Owenby Post 7807, and Committee Chairman – Junior Vice Commander Mike Cosgro hosted a second annual awards banquet to honor students, teachers, and public servants, consisting of law enforcement, firefighters, and paramedics that serve the community of Towns County. The banquet was held Monday, Jan. 14.
VFW Quartermaster Brandy Creel presents an award
Each year, the VFW has recognized exceptional performance for outstanding commitment to education and public service. Also recognized are high school students who participated in the VFW’s essay contests known as Voice of Democracy, and Patriot’s Pen for middle school students.
Teachers of all grades could be nominated by fellow teachers, students, supervisors or other interested individuals. Teachers who promote civic responsibility, flag etiquette, and patriotism, striving to help students develop a better understanding of democratic values and beliefs, are prime candidates for the award. This year’s winner was John Butler of Towns County Elementary School.
Nominated law enforcement candidates included Georgia State Patrol Trooper Scott Stanley, Hiawassee Police Department Detective Brandon Barrett, and Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton.
Towns County High School participants in the Voice of Democracy essay contest included Braxton Barrett, Cade Poston, Mai Lim, Kayla Peacock, Lindsey Giles, Bazya Smith, Emily Vargas, Hunter Quinton, along with third place winner Riley Livingston, second place winner Alison Markham, and first place winner Austin Fairless.
The winner of the Patriot’s Pen essay contest was Jayden Taylor of Towns County Middle School.
Attendees included Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw, Towns County School Superintendent Darren Berrong, Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales, and Chief Paul Smith of the Hiawassee Police Department.
VFW Post 7807 extends gratitude and appreciation to the VFW Auxilary who provided and served a delightful lasagna and spaghetti dinner.
Sheriff compares migrant invasion to an act of war
News November 16, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton reverberated recent concerns during a scheduled appearance before the Towns County Republican Party Thursday, Nov. 15, warning of what he believes are imminent dangers, particularly those attached to the migrant caravans swarming the southern U.S. border.
Social media post from Oct. 11, citing an additional U.S. Code
Sheriff Clinton maintained that the caravan is a choreographed invasion spun into play by left-wing operatives in an effort to gain a tighter chokehold on the future of America. The sheriff adamantly reiterated that violent gang members, specifically those affiliated with brutal El Salvadorian MS-13, are among the South American insurgents seeking entry.
The brazen sheriff stressed that the threat of political violence erupting, propelled by radical agitators, is a legitimate cause for consternation.
“Invasion is an act of war,” Clinton asserted, referencing 18 U.S Code § 2381, adding that government officials aiding in an insurrection are subject to charges, “Treason is punishable by death, but certainly you can’t hold office.”
Sheriff Clinton openly admitted that his unwaivering posture has drawn harsh criticism from detractors. “They hate Towns County. They hate me,” the sheriff stated, divulging that he has been accused of fear mongering, “I don’t do this job to keep me safe…I love America, I love Towns County, and I stand bold.”
In addition to speaking on gangs and the migrant caravan, Clinton discussed gun laws, the opioid epidemic, and the recent midterm elections.
Feature Photo: Razor wire installed along the southern U.S. border – Credit: RT
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet, attracting more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Towns, Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, and Murray counties, as well as Cherokee County in N.C. – FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. –
For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Chatuge Gun Club hosts 10th Annual Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes fundraiser
News October 1, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Chatuge Gun Club, sponsored by Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton, hosted the 10th annual fundraiser for the children of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes (GSYH). “A good time was had by all” was the statement of Chatuge Gun Club President Ed Jones, strongly seconded by Sheriff Clinton, along with those that participated in the event.
Each year for the past decade, Sheriff Chris Clinton and the Chatuge Gun Club has partnered to raise money for Georgia’s most at-risk youth. The children, through no fault of their own, find themselves in need of someone to care for them, teaching them the skills they will need to become successful adults.
Over ten years ago, Sheriff Clinton went to Chatuge Cun Club President Ed Jones with an idea. There had, according to the Sheriffs’ Association, never been a fund raiser for these children in our area. Thankfully, that has changed. Out of that meeting came an annual partnership that has consistently helped Towns County be one of the “Top Ten” contributors to the GSYH per capita. When one considers there are 159 Georgia counties and five with GSYH campuses, that in itself is impressive. Towns County has reached the number two spot for top contributors and has never been lower than the top ten since Sheriff Clinton and Chatuge Gun Club members teamed up to help provide for these children in need.
This year, rather than a trap shoot, gun club members suggested a steel plate match. The interest was high and the event was a huge success with ten teams of five. It was a fast-paced day with two relays of five firing at two different stations. Meanwhile, down on the lower range sat a dueling tree where many a competitor challenged friends to a race against each other on the dueling tree. The dueling tree has six swinging arms and starts with three on each side. Competitors try and get all six targets to their opponent’s side, with a total of twenty rounds and at least one magazine change.
This year’s event drew good participation from law enforcement, with deputies from Towns, Union, Rabun, and Fannin County Sheriff’s SWAT participating. There were plenty of good-hearted rivalries and more than one called out for a match on the dueling tree. At times, the dueling tree gave shooters the opportunity to redeem themselves after a bad run. Other times, it added insult to injury. No one forgot that it was about having a good time for a great cause. At the end of the day there were no injuries but maybe a few bruised egos, with a promise to return next year more prepared.
Many of the deputies from surrounding agencies asked Sheriff Clinton when the next match would be. “That was a first this year. I think the excitement is high for shooting steel and being able to go head to head on the dueling tree,” Sheriff Clinton said, ” It gave these deputies time to reacquaint with old friends, meet new ones, and have a great time of fellowship and good-hearted competition and all the proceeds go to help children. Not a bad way to spend a Saturday.”
Sheriff Clinton thanks Ed and Verlee Jones, Thad Bynum, Duane Mowrey, and all the volunteers (too many to name) from the Chatuge Gun Club for their hard work and willingness to give of their time and effort to help these children. Sheriff Clinton would like to thank their sponsors for making this all possible. They were: Dr. Dan Eichenbaum, MD, PA, Bynum Insurance Agency, Crane Creek Vineyard, Jacky Jones Ford, Correctional Resource Group, Southern Health Partners, Twiggs Construction, Coosa Creek Marketing Products, and Combined Public Communications.
Sheriff Clinton would also like to congratulate Union County Deputy Brandon Hogsed for having the top score as an individual shooter. Hogsed, along with second-place shooter Deputy Seth Dyer, led Union County’s team to a first place victory. The top five competitive shooters were:
- 1st Deputy Sheriff Brandon Hogsed – Union County
- 2nd Deputy Sheriff Seth Dyer – Union County
- 3rd Deputy Sheriff Bill Conway – Towns County
- 4th Sheriff Chris Clinton – Towns County
- 5th Tom Halasz – Chatuge Gun Club
Top five teams were:
- 1st “Ragamuffins”
- 2nd Union County Sheriff’s Office
- 3rd Towns County Sheriff’s Office (Team Five)
- 4th Towns County Sheriff’s Office (Team One)
- 5th Bynam Insurance
All individual shooter and team scores are available at chatugegunclub.com
Towns County Sheriff’s Citizen Law Enforcement Academy (CLEA) volunteers are planning a third annual fund raiser for the GSYH on Oct. 27 at Sundance Grill in Hiawassee with food, drinks, and live music by The Chris Clinton Band, George and Andy, and Bill Rinaldo from 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Tickets are on sale now.
For more information, contact Towns County Sheriff’s Office at 706-896-4444.
Decision to arm school faculty moves forth
News August 26, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Towns County Schools Facility Director Roy Perren spoke with Mountain Movers & Shakers on the morning of Friday, Aug. 24, on several subjects – one of which was the process taking place within the school system to ensure students and staff remain safe on campus.
Towns County Schools Superintendent Dr. Darren Berrong and Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton attended the forum, with both officials addressing the issue.
In light of the recent decision reached by Towns County Board of Education to station a second school resource officer on campus, along with an announcement to arm select faculty members, the room filled with local residents paid close attention to the limited details offered by the three officials. Due to the sensitive nature of the matter, based on the solid logic that individuals who may intend to cause harm should not be made privy to specific information that could potentially assist a perpetrator in the fulfillment of a detrimental plan, the trio of leaders adequately ensured, rather, that proper procedures are producing a viable security system. 
“School safety is something that’s very important to all of us,” Director Perren began, saying that many in attendance likely have children or grandchildren enrolled in Towns County Schools, “We take it very seriously. Last time I spoke we were planning on having a table-top drill with the emergency management agency. We had it that following Monday. It went really well, and we’ve got people in the community, everybody’s on the same page as far as what we would do in the case of an emergency, whether that would be an active shooter or any type of emergency that might come up in school. We’re really working out getting that plan.”
“We also trained our teachers, and I mentioned last time, in a program called ALICE,” Perren continued, “That stands for alert, lockdown, inform, counter, and evacuate. It went really well. The teachers, I feel, felt empowered by it, how they would act in case there was an emergency, and how they could not just be idle, and sit there and get shot, which is unfortunately how, over the years, we’ve trained educators to be, is that, you lock down your room, turn off the lights, and you all go hide in the corner, and wait for somebody to come get you. The main thing we would want to do in the case of an emergency is to be to get out. If there’s any way to get out of the building, we would want to do that. Get them to evacuate.”
Perren advised that if escaping isn’t an option, barricading within the facility is the next best choice, followed by countering the attacker.
Several table-top discussions have occurred over the summer months, in conjunction with Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), with officials from the full-scope of local first responder agencies taking part in the school safety endeavor. According to Perren, an active shooter drill, which will consist of county and city law enforcement, firefighters, and medical staff, is planned to take place in the coming months. The drill will be conducted at a time when classes are not in session.
School Superintendent Berrong stated that strict protocol will be imposed when allowing limited faculty to have access to a firearm to counter a threat in the event of an active shooter scenario. Berrong assured that extensive training is a necessity, and noted an importance for responding law enforcement officers to have the ability to adequately identify an armed protector from an armed intruder.
“I feel comfortable with what’s being done, and I’ll continue to work alongside Dr. Berrong and Mr. Perren to provide the resources needed to succeed, ” Sheriff Clinton told FYN after the meeting, “We’re all on the same page. It’s an ongoing process that is being given due diligence. The safety of Towns County students is top priority for everyone involved.”