Painting now prohibited on Bell Mountain
News April 18, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – On the evening of April 17, 2018, Towns County Sole Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw officially announced a decision to cease the allowance of spray-painting rocks on Bell Mountain, a county park and historical site.
Signs announcing the new regulation are situated throughout the park.
“No more painting on Bell Mountain,” Commissioner Bradshaw asserted. “People are painting nasty stuff on the roads, on the platforms, on the trees, and of course, the rocks, so I don’t have a problem with stopping it. I’ve been working with Sheriff (Chris) Clinton on this. We’ve got cameras up there now. We’ve got new signs up saying you cannot paint.”
Bradshaw continued, “I want the public to know this is not my choice. It’s for the insurance company because of the danger factor, but at the same time, I support it because it’s a beautiful place, and it’s starting to look really bad. We want to stop it, get a handle on it, and we are going to.”
Trees on Bell Mountain, marred with graffiti.
The ordinance prohibits graffiti on not only the structures, signs, parking lot, and trees, which was forbidden in the past, but the rocks themselves have been added to the list.
Numerous park signs alerting of the regulation have been installed, and the park is continuously monitored by camera surveillance. Criminal charges will be brought against those who violate the county’s mandate.
FetchYourNews (FYN) reviewed a letter from Local Government Risk Management Services (LGRMS), dated March 1, 2018, and the field report recommendation to the county reads as follows:
“To reduce the potential of someone being injured or even killed, it is recommended allowing the park attendees to paint the rocks be stopped. By allowing the painting of the rocks, attendees have placed their selves in precarious situations which could cause injury or death. By stopping the painting, it should reduce the likelihood of placing their selves in theses areas thereby reducing the potential of an attendee being severely injured or killed.”
Bell Mountain was deeded to Towns County in 2015 by the Hal Herrin estate, and offers a magnificent panoramic view of the Appalachian Mountains and Lake Chatuge.
Bell Mountain Park is open to the public from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. during the winter months, and from 8 a.m. until 11 p.m. during daylight savings time to allow opportunities for nocturnal photography.
Bell Mountain Park is located 1.3 miles east of Hiawassee Town Square, off Highway 76. Turn left onto Shake Rag Road, travel 1.5 miles to Bell Mountain Road, turn right, and proceed an additional mile to reach the Bell Mountain Park summit.
Admission and parking are free.
Sheriff Clinton: “Eliminating guns is an impractical and flawed argument”
News, Sheriff's Desk February 21, 2018
From the Desk of Sheriff Chris Clinton
Towns County, Georgia
As I reflect on the horrible tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School that destroyed lives and brought such sorrow and grief to so many families, there are no words that can properly convey how I feel for those hurt by this despicable act of evil. I’m sure there will be some who will be offended by my thoughts and that is their right. I can only hope they will understand that this is an issue that is very near to my heart as Sheriff of Towns County. I have often stated that school shootings are the most horrible of crimes and the nightmare of Sheriffs everywhere.
I find it extremely unfortunate that in the aftermath of such horrible tragedies, there are those who inevitably attempt to make a political profit by jumping on the Second Amendment issue. Over the years, it seems that there are many who almost want this issue to remain because they make political hay from it. So often it seems that the same people who blame law enforcement for shootings, whether justified or not, want to blame the firearm for the shootings carried out by mass murderers.
Too many news reports want to talk about the personal issues the shooter may have been experiencing, as though it matters at this point. The time to have helped the individual would’ve been before he shot up a school. Then, some of these same reporters blame the NRA and anyone else who believes in the Second Amendment as their best defense against such acts, which does nothing at all to address the problem. The problem is a condition of the human heart that allows an individual to perpetrate such unspeakable horrors. While it may well be unfortunate that the shooter went down a dark path, it happened. It is too late to help this sick individual. Actions have consequences and the actions taken by this individual are so evil that they demand justice. Justice is for the victims, those who lost their lives, those who lost loved ones, the community, the whole nation; we have all been harmed. It no longer matters what led up to the shooter doing this. It has been done and it demands justice.
What we can do is look for real solutions to trying to prevent these horrific acts from occurring. These acts of violence have always plagued the human race, which is why the Office of Sheriff is the oldest elected office in the history of the world. There are those who, when given the opportunity, will harm the innocent. The question becomes how do we stop them or at least do all that we can to do prevent them from carrying out these horrific evils.
Eliminating guns is an impractical and flawed argument. Guns aren’t the only weapons of choice by this type of criminal. In the Township of Bath Michigan, on May 18, 1927, 38 elementary school children and 6 adults were murdered, while 58 others were injured by a mad man, who had formerly served as the school board treasurer. Andrew Kehoe did not use a gun. The much talked about AR-15 had not even been invented yet. Kehoe used homemade bombs to carry out this horrible crime. On June 11, 1964 in Cologne, West Germany, a deranged criminal used a homemade flame thrower and lance to murder eight students, two teachers, and injure twenty-two others.
While many would ask to ban guns, I ask can we ban evil. We have laws against murder, but it still happens daily. Not all murders involve a firearm. Some crimes are prevented by firearms. Firearms are inanimate objects with no will of their own. They can be used by humans for perpetrating evil, but they may also be used by humans to defend against evil. Jeff Cooper in “The Art of the Rifle” made the following observation, “The rifle itself has no moral stature, since it has no will of its own. Naturally, it may be used by evil men for evil purposes, but there are more good men than evil, and while the latter cannot be persuaded to the path of righteousness by propaganda, they can certainly be corrected by good men with rifles.”
While some may take offense at the harsh, cold reality, I believe that we should look at ways of protecting our precious children, rather than making them more vulnerable. I am committed to doing all I can, including the willingness to lay down my own life, to protect our children. I only ask that we look for solutions in keeping our children safe, not in some far off imagined utopia where no one breaks the law, but today. We have lost too many precious lives and rhetoric has done nothing to deter crime. My thoughts and prayers go out the families and community of these precious children who were the unarmed, undefended victims of an evil act of violence perpetrated by a criminal. My heart breaks for them.
Sheriff Clinton Explains Child Passenger Safety Laws
Sheriff's Desk November 13, 2017
From the Desk of Sheriff Chris Clinton:
Child passenger safety is an important topic. No one wants their child to be injured in a motor vehicle accident. Not only will improper precautions place a child in harm, but drivers can receive a citation for failing to follow state laws regarding child passenger safety. The following information is a paraphrase of the requirements of the law in Georgia.
Children under age eight are required to be in a child safety seat or booster seat. The seat or booster must be appropriate for the child’s height and weight and must be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, children under eight must ride in a back seat, but there are a few exceptions to that requirement.
If a vehicle has no rear seating or all the rear seats are already occupied by other children, a child under eight may ride in the front seat. Still, any child riding in a front seat must be properly restrained in a child safety seat or booster seat appropriate for their height and weight. Drivers should be aware of the potential of the child receiving serious injury should an airbag deployment occur while a child is riding in the front seat.
When using a booster seat, a lap/shoulder belt is required, but again, there is an exception. A child over 40 pounds may use only a lap belt if the vehicle does not have shoulder belts or if positions that have lap/shoulder belts are being used to restrain other children. If there are only lap belts in the rear seat, a child may ride in the front seat. Again, any child riding in the front seat must be restrained in a safety seat that is appropriate for their height and weight. The seat must be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. There remains the potential for serious injury from an airbag deployment that should be understood and considered.
A child over 4’9″ in height may be restrained in a safety belt instead of a booster seat. A child under eight can be exempt for physical or medical reasons only if the parent or guardian has a written statement from a physician that a physical or medical condition prevents using a child safety seat or safety restraint system.
As always, it is our desire to help you and your loved ones remain safe. If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call on your Sheriff’s Office at 706-896-4444. We are always honored to assist you in keeping yourself and your family safe.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns 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]
GBI Bomb Disposal Unit Visits Hiawassee
News September 6, 2017Hiawassee, GA – Citizen Law Enforcement Academy (CLEA) alumni and current participants in the 8-week CLEA VII course gathered at Towns County Beach on Tuesday afternoon, September 5, for a special presentation featuring Bomb Disposal Unit #601, courtesy of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and Towns County Sheriff’s Office.
After enjoying conversation and a cookout under the park’s pavilion, Sheriff Chris Clinton introduced GBI Special Agent Ryan Hilton to the sizable turnout of attendees.
GBI Special Agent Ryan Hilton
Special Agent Hilton, from the Region 8 field office in Cleveland, began by explaining the purpose of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. “We’re what’s called a requester agency,” the Special Agent told the group, “We can be requested by the Governor, Judges, District Attorney, Sheriff, or Chief of Police to assist in criminal investigations.”
Special Agent Hilton went on to explain the GBI often investigates homicides, public corruption, crimes against the elderly, allegations of excessive use of force by law enforcement officers and other incidents throughout the state.
Special Agent Hilton led the group to the Bomb Disposal truck, one of eleven within the state of Georgia, and described the bomb suit used by bomb technicians while engaging an explosive device. Weighing 84 pounds and similar to those worn by firefighters, the suit provides substantial thermal and overpressure protection. It also lessens the impact of injury in the event an explosive device detonates.
The agent described the functions and capabilities of the small, but mighty 426 pound robot used to disarm explosives. Valued at a quarter of a million dollars, it is equipped with cameras, a speaker, an electronic grip, and dual barrels that are similar in strength to a 12 gauge shotgun and proficient enough to shoot the battery from a device without disturbing the attached explosive.
GBI Bomb Disposal Unit
“The most common call the Bomb Unit receives is suspicious packages and found ordnance,” Special Agent Hilton said. Found ordnance consist of commercial explosives and war remnants, a familiar find in areas such as Savannah where battles once took place.
The agent demonstrated the operation of the robot for the CLEA class before taking several questions from the interested audience.
CLEA VII commencement is scheduled for September 26 at the Towns County Courthouse.
Drug offenders suspected of avoiding Hiawassee
City Police, News April 11, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Hiawassee Police Department announced a “new low” in felony drug arrests, and the suspected reason for the decline is surprising. According to Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith, word of his department’s vigilance has spread, and individuals possessing illicit substances may be traveling an alternate route to evade city law enforcement.
During Hiawassee City Council’s regular session on Tuesday, April 3, Chief Smith recalled an incident involving a drug-related arrest. Smith stated that the suspect readily admitted that he should have avoided Hiawassee, specifically mentioning Highway 288 as the passage the driver divulged should have been chosen instead. Highway 288, also known as Sunnyside Road, winds south of Hiawassee’s perimeter, beyond the city police department’s jurisdiction.
In comparison to the first three months of the previous year, 2018 has witnessed a noticeable decrease in the number of drug arrests conducted by Hiawassee Police Department.From January until March of 2017, nine misdemeanor drug arrests and 17 felony drug arrests took place. The current year-to-date statistics show only two misdemeanor drug arrests, along with eight felony drug charges.
“There was another person that let us look through their phone after we arrested them, giving us consent to search their device,” Chief Smith disclosed in an interview with FetchYourNews (FYN). “Someone had messaged them, saying something along the lines of, ‘Why did you go through Hiawassee?'”
A patrol officer with the Hiawassee Police Department relayed that, he too, has heard rumors of Highway 288 being the preferred course of travel for perpetrators hoping to avoid city law enforcement. The majority of drug arrests occurring within the city limits of Hiawassee are the result of traffic stops initiated for citation-related offenses, such as speeding or improper vehicle requirements.
FYN contacted Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton for his thoughts on the theory that drug offenders are skirting Hiawassee in favor of Highway 288, a route which falls under his department’s jurisdiction.
“I am unaware of any official statement by the City of Hiawassee making such a claim. My office has received no criminal intelligence, much less evidence, of any such criminal methodology,” Sheriff Clinton stated via email.
In contrast to 2017 data, Hiawassee Police Department’s self-initiated reports have decreased by 25 percent this year. The agency has seen a 40 percent increase in dispatched calls, however, in the first quarter of 2018. Hiawassee Police Department has generated a total of 868 case numbers in the past three months. The amount is a combination of traffic stops, citations, and calls for service.
Sheriff Clinton shares Christmas shopping safety tips
Sheriff's Desk December 6, 2017
From the Desk of Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton:
During the holiday season, busy people intent on trying to complete their Christmas shopping often become the target of criminals who seek to steal packages from vehicles parked in mall and shopping center parking lots. The following information is provided in conjunction with your Georgia Sheriffs’ Association and is intended to help you from becoming the next victim.
When shopping, look for the best lit parking spaces. Once in your chosen space, look around before leaving your car. Is there anyone in the vicinity watching you? Do you see anyone loitering? If so, remain in your car and watch them for a moment. If they move on, that’s fine, but if not, you might consider moving to a new parking space. If you feel uncertain or unsafe about a situation you observe, take steps to move yourself to a safer location. Don’t assume you are being foolish or paranoid.
Once you are in a safer location, lock your vehicle and move quickly and confidently to the store. Would-be thieves and robbers are looking for the easiest targets. If you show that you are aware of what is happening around you and move with a sense of purpose, you are less likely to become a victim. Walk against the flow and traffic.
Keep your head up and scanning—look forward, to the right and left, and even check behind as you walk. Awareness is your greatest defense. Don’t search through a purse or bags in the parking lot. If you must look for something, make sure you are in the safety of the store before you become absorbed in your hunt for a tissue, shopping list or other item.
If you store items in your vehicle, make sure they are covered or concealed. If you are putting bags in your vehicle and returning to shop, move your car from time to time in case someone is watching you.
Finally, if leaving late from a shopping mall or store, don’t hesitate to ask a store employee for help. Don’t accept the kind offer of the “stranger” who meets you outside the door and offers assistance. It may be a kind and generous offer, but it could also be ploy to gain access to your belongings.
Be aware, stay safe, and have a joyous and wonderful holiday season!
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns 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]
Sheriff Clinton offers tips to avoid Holiday fraud
Sheriff's Desk November 20, 2017
From the Desk of Sheriff Christopher M. Clinton
Towns County, Ga.
This week, as we celebrate Thanksgiving, most of us will enjoy the time with family and friends or take part in some tradition. Many are already planning their Christmas shopping. While stores and consumers alike are getting ready for a busy season of shopping, criminals are planning to take advantage of unwary consumers.
Each year criminals and unscrupulous companies, many of them outside the United States, take advantage of consumers through the use of Internet fraud. In an effort to keep you safe we offer for your consideration the following guidelines suggested by the FBI to help you avoid becoming a victim:
• Only purchase merchandise from reputable dealers or establishments.
• Try to obtain a physical address rather than merely a post office box and a phone number; call the seller to see if the number is correct and working.
• Send them an e-mail to see if they have an active e-mail address and be wary of those that utilize free e-mail services where a credit card wasn’t required to open the account.
• Consider not purchasing from sellers who won’t provide you with this type of information.
• Purchase merchandise directly from the individual/company that holds the trademark, copyright, or patent.
• Beware when responding to e-mail that may not have been sent by a reputable company.
• Guard your account information carefully. Don’t give out your credit card number(s) online unless the site is a secure and reputable site. Sometimes a tiny icon of a padlock appears to symbolize a higher level of security to transmit data. This icon is not a guarantee of a secure site, but might provide you some assurance.
We at the Towns County Sheriff’s Office are thankful for the opportunity to serve our citizens. As we all pause to give thanks this year, consider helping a child less fortunate by becoming a partner in the Sheriff’s Empty Stocking Fund. This annual project provides Christmas toys for Towns County children who otherwise would not receive gifts due to financial hardships.
Each year we hold the Sheriff’s Christmas Parade to benefit the Sheriff’s Empty Stocking Fund. Participants are asked to bring a new unwrapped toy for a boy or girl. The parade this year will be held Nov. 25, 2017, and will start at 5:30 p.m. The parade will travel from the Georgia Mountain Fair to McConnell Memorial Baptist Church in Hiawassee. Participants are encouraged to be at the fairgrounds at 4 p.m. for parade line up.
If you would like to help a child in need by donating toys or making a financial contribution, you may do so at either the Towns County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center and Administrative Offices, located at 4070 State Hwy 339, Young Harris, GA or at the Towns County Sheriff’s Office located in the Towns County Courthouse, at 48 River Street, Hiawassee, GA.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns 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]
Love for the Lord and the Law of the Land
Business October 5, 2017
Hiawassee, GA – Which words come to mind when asked to describe law enforcement? Narration of the enforcement of law? The preservation of peace? A balance of both?
In this day and age, the odds are stacked against “God” and “Love” making it to the top of the majority’s vocabulary list, yet that was the message bestowed upon graduates of the Citizen Law Enforcement Academy (CLEA), a 20-hour course sponsored by the Towns County Sheriff’s Office.
Pastor Steve Taylor of McConnell Baptist Church was the keynote speaker at the ceremony for the seventh edition class which took place on October 3, 2017, in the sanctuary of the majestic church on Main Street.
CLEA VII with Sheriff Chris Clinton and Pastor Steve Taylor
Dozens of graduates and guests gathered in the pews, seated in solemn silence, as Pastor Steve made mention of the Las Vegas tragedy that occurred mere days before, and his gratitude toward those willing to serve in support of peace officers.
The Pastor said he “understands why a program like [CLEA] is necessary. Law enforcement cannot do it alone.” Pastor Steve iterated the shared sentiments of Sheriff Chris Clinton, who listened among his supporters and staff, nodding in agreement throughout the lesson.
The solution to the strife returns to a wise Scripture, according to the Pastor’s teaching: Luke 10:27, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind. And love your neighbor as yourself.”
“Love God. All we do flows from there. And love people,” Pastor Steve Taylor emoted, “We see, but don’t say. We say, but don’t do…There’s confusion in society about what love is. We have to choose to love. Love is conduct, action. Not to get, but to give.”
Pastor Steve imparted his closing thoughts for the Sheriff, his staff, CLEA alumni, and graduates to ponder, “Do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly.”
The keynotes were followed by a digital presentation of the 10-week journey the graduates traveled in order to arrive with certificates in hand, followed by kind words of appreciation from Sheriff Clinton.
Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton presents certificates to CLEA graduates. Pictured: Colonel Terry Conner and Pastor Steve Taylor
When asked, CLEA alumni David Marrella shared his thoughts on his dedicated public service. He answered with earnest, “It’s a way to give back. The Sheriff’s Office has always taken care of us. I want to give back to them.”
CLEA VII graduate, Richard Parkman, agreed with Mr. Marrella’s response. “I see it as an opportunity to become involved. I support [Sheriff] Chris [Clinton] and law enforcement. This is a people-oriented community.”
It was an event those in attendance are unlikely to forget.
Featured Image: (L-R)
CLEA alumni David Marrella, Pastor Steve Taylor, Sheriff Chris Clinton
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns 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]
Sheriff’s Desk: Multimillion Dollar Methamphetamine Operation Results in Arrests
News, Sheriff's Desk September 18, 2017
From the Desk of Sheriff Chris Clinton
Towns County, Georgia
I have long believed that one of the secrets to success in criminal investigations is networking and sharing information with other law enforcement agencies.
In 2007, after being elected Sheriff of Towns County, I became a member of the Appalachian Drug Task Force. At that time we had four sheriff’s offices in the task force.
In 2012, the other board members saw fit to ask me to serve as Vice Chairman of the Board. Around that same time, one of the four sheriffs decided to pull out of the task force, leaving only three sheriffs involved. Many tried to pressure me to pull out of the “drug task force” calling it a waste of time. I did not believe this to be true and still do not.
After our board members voted to become a regional drug enforcement office serving North Georgia the name was changed to the Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office (ARDEO). By this time, Banks County Sheriff’s Office had joined us and we were back to four. As it stands today, we have grown to include Towns County Sheriff’s Office, White County Sheriff’s Office, Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office, Banks County Sheriff’s Office, Habersham County Sheriff’s Office, Stephens County Sheriff’s Office, Rabun County Sheriff’s Office and Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Cleveland Police Department, Lavonia Police Department, the Georgia National Guard Counter Drug Task Force, the Department of Public Safety, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
That is a lot of agencies, sharing a lot of criminal intelligence. But, has it been effective?
By 2016, the ARDEO had made seizures of more than $36,000,000.00. ARDEO is one of three Regional Drug Enforcement Offices in the State of Georgia. The other two are the West Metro (Atlanta area) and Savannah, Chatham County. As large as those areas are, the ARDEO has kept pace and, in some areas, surpassed the standard set by the other two.
This past weekend was no exception. The following information was provided originally by Georgia Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Mitchell Posey, who supervises our drug agents. On Friday, September 15th, 2017, the Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office and the FBI’s North Georgia Major Offender Squad disrupted a methamphetamine trafficking ring in North Georgia.
A traffic stop of Angel Luis Rivera- Santiago and Victor Rafael Aponte yielded the seizure of 15 kilograms of methamphetamine. During the subsequent investigation, Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office and FBI Agents executed a search warrant at 990 Flanders Road, Dahlonega, GA. Valentine Duarte-Vejar ran from this residence, but was captured in the possession of a handgun. This search warrant yielded a few grams of cocaine and $166,000. Agents continued to follow investigative leads until a conversion lab was located at 843 Cooper’s Creek Road, Suches, Union County, GA. A conversion lab is used to convert liquid methamphetamine to its crystal form.
Agents located a handgun and 15 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine at the lab. ARDEO Agents processed approximately 300 pounds of environmental waste largely containing methamphetamine oil. Agents on scene estimated this lab was capable of producing a minimum of 25-50 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine at a time. This short but effective investigation was a federal, state, and local partnership that disrupted and dismantled a drug distribution network’s attempt to flood our communities with this destructive drug for their own financial gain. The street value of the 30 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine is $3,234,000.
Angel Luis Rivera- Santiago, 42, of Norcross, Victor Rafael Aponte, 30, of Dahlonega and Valentine Duarte-Vejar, 25, of Dahlonega were charged with trafficking methamphetamine. Eleoncio Perez-Pineda, 29, of Dahlonega, and Jose Mario Duarte-Vejar, 25, of Dahlonega were later arrested in Dahlonega and charged with conspiracy to manufactory methamphetamine. These five men were transported to the Lumpkin County Detention Center. The immigration status of these men is still pending. This investigation continues.
Valentine Duarte-Vejar ran from this residence, but was captured in the possession of a handgun. This search warrant yielded a few grams of cocaine and $166,000. Agents continued to follow investigative leads until a conversion lab was located at 843 Cooper’s Creek Road, Suches, Union County, GA. A conversion lab is used to convert liquid methamphetamine to its crystal form. Agents located a handgun and 15 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine at the lab. ARDEO Agents processed approximately 300 pounds of environmental waste largely containing methamphetamine oil. Agents on scene estimated this lab was capable of producing a minimum of 25-50 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine at a time. This short but effective investigation was a federal, state, and local partnership that disrupted and dismantled a drug distribution network’s attempt to flood our communities with this destructive drug for their own financial gain. The street value of the 30 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine is $3,234,000
None of this would have been possible without the combined efforts and partnerships developed. I think we are on the right track in keeping our community safe from the dangerous criminals and the poison they pedal.
If you have information regarding criminal behavior, please do not hesitate to contact your sheriff’s office at 706-896-4444 or in an emergency dial 911.
From the Sheriff’s Desk: Remembering September 11
Sheriff's Desk September 11, 2017
From the Desk of Sheriff Christopher M. Clinton
Towns County, Georgia
Sheriff Chris Clinton
September 11, 2001 is a day I will never forget. I had spent the night before on a 12-hour shift as a patrol deputy. My wife woke me up to tell me about the first plane. As we watched in horror, we saw the first footage of flight 175 striking the south tower. I remember feeling like I had to do something. I did what a lot of other law enforcement officers did – I put on my gear and went back to work, without sleeping, in case I was needed. All of us knew that we were facing something we had never dealt with in the past. A lot changed that day.
We must always remember those who lost their lives and keep their families in prayer. American children are growing up without their mom or dad. Families have lost loved ones. We, as Americans, must always remember them and honor that memory.
On September 11, 2012, Ambassador Christopher Stevens, Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods, and Glen Doherty all lost their lives in an attack in Benghazi, Libya.
September 11 is also a day that Towns County Deputy James Taylor lost his life in the line of duty in 1981. Twenty years before the Twin Towers, a Towns County family suffered the loss of a father, husband, brother, and the whole community felt the loss of a local hero. I cannot help but to think of the Taylor family each year on this day. Deputy Taylor gave the ultimate sacrifice protecting and serving the people of this great county and we should remember his family in our prayers. The families of those who serve are affected much harder than the majority of people ever realize. We should all remember to keep these families in our prayers and especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
This weekend I attended and had the privilege of speaking to a group of riders at their annual 9-11 memorial ride. My friend, Dr. Dan Eichenbaum, a local ophthalmologist, a Cherokee County, NC commissioner, radio personality (Dr. Dan’s Freedom Forum), public speaker, and all around patriot made a statement that I believe to be profound. He reminded us of the importance of remembering the sacrifices of those who gave all. He said, “A man does not die until he is forgotten.”
Let us never forget.
Sheriff Clinton addresses dangers of distracted driving
Sheriff's Desk August 27, 2018
From the Desk of Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton:
Over the years I have often commented that I wished most people had experience riding a motorcycle, as most riders learn very quickly to pay attention to other drivers and take responsibility for their own safety. I bought my first street bike in 1987 and over the years the skills I learned that first year or so have continued to serve me well. Of course, I have continued to learn, but the basics remain the same. I realize that most people never own or even ride a motorcycle, nor do they have the desire. Some even think those of us who do ride should not. That being said, I thought I would offer some tips that apply to all vehicles that, if practiced each time you drive, should improve your safety and those around you. These tips apply not only to motorcycles, but can and should be used by any driver of any vehicle.
Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton
Driving distracted is a serious problem on our roads today. We have all sorts of laws addressing it, two more recent ones on everyone’s mind are texting while driving and hands free driving, but the real issue is being distracted by anything. One should always be alert and scanning the roadway ahead, paying close attention to what is behind and on either side of you, as well as your instruments. Scanning keeps you from getting locked onto something for too long which causes accidents. According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), one should never remain focused on something for over four seconds at a time. In my opinion, four seconds is a very long time to not be scanning. While scanning, one should always be looking as far as possible down the road for potential hazards. Be mindful of potential hazards and where your potential “escape routes” are located if you need to avoid a collision with a distracted driver. By knowing what is around you, you have a better chance of finding a safe escape route. It doesn’t do much good to avoid one collision only to create another.
Following too closely is a problem I see often. Georgia’s Emergency Vehicle Operations course advises law enforcement officers to leave a two-second reactionary gap between your vehicle and the one in front. I follow MSF’s rule of remaining three to five seconds behind the vehicle in front. The reasons are: This gives more time to react, especially if you were looking elsewhere when the trouble ahead occurs. It also allows you to see much further down the road and watch for hazards. I often see people so close that they can’t possibly avoid striking the vehicle in front of them if it were to strike something. In that situation the second driver can’t see anything except the vehicle in front of them and haven’t left time to react if that driver makes the mistake of striking something ahead of them. Simply pick out a spot ahead and as the rear tires of the vehicle in front of you cross it count to yourself one thousand one, one thousand two, etc. Make sure you get to three full seconds at least. Try it and notice how much more you can see what is going on down the road.
Another piece of advice is to not drive faster that you can see, regardless of the speed limit because that might be posted too high. By this I am talking about curves, hills, or any other thing that prevents us from seeing further. When approaching a curve, etc., one should only travel as fast as they “can see.” When entering a curve or topping a hill etc., make sure you can safely stop the vehicle in the distance that you can see. We can’t know what is beyond our field of vision. Often people start into a curve already pushing the speed, only to find it suddenly becomes a sharper turn than they can negotiate at that speed. Heading west off Clayton mountain, there is a smashed up guard rail. We work a lot of wreck there for this very reason. People enter that curve faster that they can see to drive. While that is bad enough and some have been seriously hurt, it could be worse. I’ve witnessed a lot of tragedy in this profession, much of it avoidable by taking a little extra care. Maybe it isn’t that the curve is too sharp, maybe you know the road well, but what if someone’s child is chasing a ball, but you couldn’t see that. Wouldn’t we want to be able to stop in time? I use that example because like many officers, I have had to witness the horror when someone drives faster than they can see while distracted. A mistake like that can often be avoided beforehand, but can never be called back. Stay safe, friends!
Meals of Hope to package 50,000 meals
Community, News March 10, 2018
YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. – Lake Chatuge – Hiawassee Rotary has announced an initiative to provide 50,000 meals for those in need in Towns County. Meals of Hope is an outreach program created to bring communities together to end hunger. Volunteers are requested on Saturday, April 28, from 9 a.m. until noon at the Towns County Recreation and Conference Center in Young Harris to help package the meals.
“We know about the students at school who receive free or reduced-priced lunches, but we might not pause to think that they may have siblings or other family members at home who are hungry as well,” Sheriff Chris Clinton relayed Friday, March 9, at the Mountain Movers and Shakers meeting, “The local rotary is hoping for 120 volunteers who would like to help package 50,000 meals for those in our community.”
According to their website, Meals of Hope began as a food packing organization, and they are the only food packing organization with a priority on keeping the food packed within the United States.
Meals of Hope developed five meals specifically designed for the American palate with added vitamins, minerals and proteins to supplement an unbalanced diet. Most of their packed meals are donated to the Feeding America Food Bank Network.
Over 15,000 volunteers and six full-time staff members assist Meals of Hope in achieving its mission.
Financial sponsorship is also available.
A $25 bronze sponsorship provides 100 meals, a $100 silver sponsorship offers 400 meals, a $250 gold sponsorship supplies 1,000 meals, and a $500 diamond sponsorship shares 2,000 meals.
The Towns County Recreation and Conference Center is located at 150 Foster Park Road in Young Harris.
For more information, contact Kerry Clem at 706-897-0291.
Fatal Accident Claims the Life of Food Pantry Director
News September 21, 2017
Hiawassee, GA – On Wednesday, September 20, shortly after 10:30 a.m., emergency responders were dispatched to a motor vehicle accident on Upper Bell Creek Road.
Mr. Richard Botting, well known as the director of the Towns County Food Pantry, was rushed by ambulance to the Air Life helicopter for emergency medical transport.
Sadly, he did not survive the accident.
Mr. Botting has been described as a kind man, well loved by the community. The loss is certain to be far felt.
“I knew Richard personally and my thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time,” Sheriff Chris Clinton expressed.
Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw added, ” My heart is saddened by this tragic loss. Not only was Richard a tremendous asset to Towns County, but I considered him a friend. Richard was an honest and caring man with servant’s heart; this was showcased by his devotion to the Towns County Food Pantry and his service on the Industrial Board. Richard will be missed by many as he definitely made a positive impact on all that knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family.”
Commissioner Bradshaw included Biblical Scripture, Revelations 14:1.
“Then I heard a voice from Heaven say, write: Blessed be the dead who die in the Lord from now on. “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”
Georgia State Patrol is investigating the accident at the request of the Towns County Sheriff’s Office.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns 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]
Georgia State Patrol Aviation Unit Lands in Hiawassee
News September 20, 2017
Hiawassee, GA – Soon-to-be graduates of the Citizen Law Enforcement Academy (CLEA) were given a firsthand look at a Georgia State Patrol (GSP) helicopter on Tuesday, September 19, at McConnell Baptist Church on Main Street.
Georgia State Patrol helicopter, once owned by best-selling author Patricia Cornwell
The second-to-last session in the 10-week series began with classroom instruction from GSP Corporal Paul Wofford on the history and operations of the state police aviation unit.
Georgia State Patrol Aviation Troopers, TFC Jamon Jones and Corporal Paul Wofford
Developed in 1974, the flight unit currently consists of 13 pilots and 12 aircraft. Each helicopter costs approximately $3.5 million dollars and each pilot flies an average of 250-300 hours per year.
There are six field hangars within the state of Georgia, located in Kennesaw, Albany, Gainesville, Perry, Reidsville, and Augusta.
The Georgia State Patrol aviation unit is dispatched to locate missing persons, aid in manhunts, assist with rescue missions, provide fire suppression, and capture aerial surveillance.
Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton, Chief Deputy Colonel Terry Conner, and Sole Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw were in attendance.
The final class in the CLEA program will be held at the Towns County Courthouse next week, followed by a tour of the Towns County 911 Dispatch center.
CLEA VII graduation is scheduled to take place at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 3, 2017, at McConnell Baptist Church in Hiawassee.
Alumni are invited to attend.
For information on participating in a future Citizen Law Enforcement Academy course, contact the Towns County Sheriff’s Office at 706.896.4444
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns 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]
From the Sheriff’s Desk: Sex Offenders
News, Sheriff's Desk September 4, 2017
From the Desk of Sheriff Chris Clinton:
I often receive calls and questions about sex offenders. These tend to occur when someone realizes that a neighbor is on the sex offender registry. Understandably, they are concerned about their family’s safety. The following information is provided in conjunction with the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association in the hope that it will help keep you informed and better able to take steps to keep yourself and your family safe.
Sheriffs’ offices are mandated by law to register sex offenders. These offenders are required to report to the sheriff’s office to register once a year, unless the offender is a predator, at which time he is required to register twice a year. The registration process includes collecting and verifying the offender’s registration information.
Although sheriffs’ offices manage the sex offender registry, they cannot track every movement. Therefore, citizen involvement is paramount. You – the citizen – must be aware of registered sex offenders who live or work in your community, and assume the responsibility of enhancing community safety and crime prevention.
Here are ways to become more involved.
• Research websites that provide registered sex offender information such as your local sheriff’s office website, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation http://gbi.georgia.gov/georgia-sex-offenderregistry and the family Watchdog at http://www.familywatchdog.us/.
• Understand the issues involved in sexual assault. Know the statistics. • Assume preventing sexual assault is everyone’s responsibility.
• Talk to your children about personal safety issues as they relate to child sexual abuse. Do this when you talk to your children about bike safety, crossing the street, or talking to strangers. It is, in many ways, just another personal safety rule about which children need to be aware.
• Increase your knowledge about risk reduction measures you can take to protect yourself.
• Invite your local law enforcement, probation/ parole department, rape crisis center, or child abuse prevention organization to a neighborhood discussion group to learn about the issue and to process people’s emotions.
• Get to know your neighbors.
• Organize neighborhood block watches, if desired, by your neighbors. • Do not wait until you are informed that a sex offender is living nearby to begin educating yourself and family on issues of sexual assault. • Find out what the statistics on child sexual abuse, adult sexual assault, offender arrest, and incarceration are in your community.
In Towns County, we keep a very close eye on sex offenders, but we cannot be everywhere all the time and we want you to be informed. If I can answer questions about any issue, please do
not hesitate to call upon us. We are only able to address the concerns we are made aware of. We stand, as always, eager to serve.
Sheriff Clinton asks community’s help in making Christmas brighter for local children
Community, Sheriff's Desk November 27, 2018From the Desk of Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton:
Most of us have family traditions that we enjoy during the Christmas season. Families with small children may spend Christmas Eve baking cookies for Santa or listening to Christmas carols, while enjoying eggnog by the fire. As a small child I remember the anticipation of Christmas being so intense. I was in awe and wonder dreaming about what might be inside all those presents wrapped so nicely under the tree. I would just stare at the Christmas tree and day dream about Christmas Day.
For me, even at 49, Christmas is still the most magical time of year. I love Christmas lights and the sounds of Christmas carols everywhere. The world just seems to be a nicer place during the Christmas season. I love to watch young children open gifts and see their eyes light up with joy. There is no other feeling like the feeling Christmas. While Christmas is about much more than material possessions, the spirit of Christmas, is certainly captured in the joy of a child receiving a gift on Christmas morning.
So, what about the children who are less fortunate? Imagine the child whose family has fallen on hard times. Do they wake up to just another day of struggling to make ends meet? Imagine if you were a parent who loved your child, but had fallen on hard times. I doubt that there would be anything much harder than not being able to provide your child, whom you love, the wonder of Christmas morning.
It breaks my heart to think that, as the rest of the world enjoys the most blessed day of the year, some families wake to another day of not having enough. While providing toys for these children isn’t going to make the rest of their problems go away, I can’t help but believe that, at least for a time, their world becomes a little brighter and things seem a little better than before.
Each year the Sheriff’s Office attempts to provide the joy of Christmas gifts for these children. This effort is only made possible by the help of generous people in the community who donate to this cause. Names of children in need are collected and toys are gathered. We try whenever possible to provide at least one item that the child has specifically asked for. The toys are then given to the parents, of the child to handle Christmas in their family’s tradition. It is all done in such a way as to protect the dignity of the family and allow them to share in the joy that many of us take for granted.
This year has been a tough one for some local families. We are hoping to provide for each child, but we need your help to do so. If you would like to be a part of this effort, or if you know of a family with children in need of help, please contact your Sheriff’s Office at 706-896-4444.
I hope that each of you has a blessed and joyous Christmas this year!