Welcome to this week’s local update for Gordon County. We have a packed report today, covering recent law enforcement activity, public health alerts, and key insights into our county’s financial and property tax landscape.
### In-Studio Highlights: County Finances and Property Taxes We were pleased to be joined on-air by Gordon County Assistant Administrator Keith King and Chief Appraiser Ashley Bailey from the Tax Assessor’s Office. They provided valuable clarity on the current state of property assessments and the tax landscape in Gordon County. For residents with questions about their recent assessments or interested in learning more about the homestead exemption process, the Tax Assessor’s Office remains a primary resource.
Public Safety and Law Enforcement Report
Local law enforcement remains active across the county. Recent bookings include:
Theft-Related Charges: Ronnie Ray Campbell (Entering an Automobile), Arnaldo De Jesus Flores Meza (Theft of Lost or Mislaid Property), and Michael Christopher Rose (Burglary/Theft/Firearm Possession).
Drug-Related Activity: Arrests included Wesley Austin Duvall (Methamphetamine trafficking charges), Stephen Larry Watson, David Dewayne Carroll, and John Franklin Dance (various DUI and traffic charges).
Violent Crimes: Several individuals were booked on charges ranging from family violence battery and aggravated assault to stalking and criminal trespass, including Clayton Hunter Compton, Jason Dewayne Fortenberry, Andre D’shaun Kemp, Stacey Diane Seritt, and Jordan Steven Dupree.
Traffic Enforcement: Kobie Thomas Carney was arrested on charges including DUI and violations of the state’s “move-over” law.
Community Spotlight
Crisis Support: Dispatchers and staff at the Gordon County Child Advocacy Center and Sexual Assault Center are highlighting their 24-hour crisis support services. If you or someone you know is in need, please reach out to their 24-hour hotline at 706-602-2184.
Public Health Alert: West Nile virus activity is on the rise. While no human cases have been confirmed in Georgia, infected mosquitoes have been detected in metro Atlanta. Residents are encouraged to use EPA-registered repellent, wear long sleeves, and remove standing water from around their homes.
Invasive Species: The Georgia Department of Agriculture is warning residents about the spotted lanternfly. If you spot one, please take a photo, kill it, and report it at gainvasives.org.
Agricultural Scams: A reminder to our local farming community: be wary of sophisticated AI-driven online scams involving farm equipment. Always verify dealers independently and visit in person before wiring funds.
Economic & Sports Update
National Economy: Grocery prices continue to climb, driven by a “perfect storm” of high interest rates, global conflict, tariffs, and rising energy costs. With tax refunds now largely spent, local retail sales are beginning to show signs of slowing.
Braves Update: The Braves recently concluded a series against the St. Louis Cardinals. After a tough start, the team is now heading into the All-Star break. They will return to Truist Park this Friday, July 17, at 7:15 PM ET to face the Texas Rangers.
Stay tuned to Georgia 101.7 for more updates throughout the week.