Georgia Attorney News Archive (Page 36)

Plans are underway for a new joint law enforcement center in Georgia, with updates shared by Floyd County Commissioner Rhonda Wallace. As both city and county police departments prepare for relocation, the renovation project will create additional courtroom spaces. Notably, the tax commissioner and tag offices will move to the third floor as part of this initiative.

Key changes within the facility will also see E-911 services and juvenile court operations established on the second floor. Further phases of the project aim to accommodate the magistrate and probate courts as they relocate, signaling a comprehensive approach to improving court facilities.

Commissioner Wallace also emphasized the urgent need for renovations to the Historic Courthouse. The focus will be on exterior restoration to tackle ongoing water damage. These developments highlight significant progress in local governance and the enhancement of civic infrastructure in Floyd County and its neighboring areas.

A serious multi-vehicle accident occurred on Highway 293 in Bartow County, Georgia, on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in multiple injuries. Preliminary reports suggest that a Toyota Sequoia crossed into oncoming traffic, colliding with a tow truck before crashing into a nearby brick wall.

In the aftermath of the accident, another vehicle, a Toyota Corolla, also collided with the tow truck and subsequently veered off the roadway. Legal experts specializing in personal injury law are currently assessing the situation, discussing potential civil litigation for those impacted by the crash. The driver of the Sequoia was airlifted to Kennestone Medical Center, where they are being treated for suspected severe injuries.

This incident has raised significant concerns regarding road safety and potential liability. The property damage involved also brings attention to implications within real estate law, as local authorities work to address these issues.

On November 27, authorities in Floyd County, Georgia, made multiple arrests, underscoring significant legal issues related to criminal defense and potential civil litigation.

Elizabeth Marie Gunnells, 44, from Lyerly, was initially charged with shoplifting. However, her situation escalated when she faced additional felony charges that include possession of methamphetamine and evidence tampering, after contraband was found at the Floyd County Jail.

At the same time, Andrew Steven Silvey, 43, a resident of Garden Lakes, was arrested for drug possession. He now also faces charges regarding a firearm, as he is a convicted felon.

Additionally, 60-year-old Jimmy Dale Stinnott from LaFayette has been charged with felony possession of methamphetamine. These cases highlight the complexities of the justice system in Georgia as the legal proceedings continue for those involved.

BRYAN COUNTY, Ga. — An incident in Bryan County involving an off-duty Effingham County Sheriff’s deputy is currently under investigation by the Regional Force Investigation Team (RFIT).

The altercation took place at a Zip-In convenience store in Ellabell, where two men engaged in a gunfight in the parking lot. The off-duty deputy intervened during the incident, identifying himself and discharging his weapon when one of the men pointed a firearm at him.

After the altercation, both individuals fled the scene, but one was later captured and required treatment at a local hospital. The Bryan County Sheriff’s Office is actively pursuing charges, highlighting the civil litigation and criminal defense complexities emerging from this situation.

Tybee Island, Georgia, has appointed Steven Smalls as the new organizer for the 2026 Orange Crush festival. This decision marks a significant change, as Smalls will be taking over from trademark owner George Ramson Turner III amid a contentious permit dispute. The situation raises important questions about intellectual property rights and the management of community events.

George Ramson Turner III voiced his frustrations during a recent City Hall meeting, arguing that owning the festival's name should play a crucial role in the city's decision-making process. However, Mayor Brian West defended the city’s choice, citing logistics and public safety as key factors. He emphasized Smalls' extensive experience in managing large-scale festivities as a reason for their decision.

In response to losing the festival to Smalls, Turner is exploring the possibility of hosting a separate Orange Crush-related event just before Smalls’ festival takes place. However, city officials are skeptical about the feasibility of two similar gatherings occurring in the same timeframe.

This ongoing tension not only highlights the intricate issues surrounding business and corporate law in event planning but also underscores the potential impact on real estate and local businesses in the lively community of Tybee Island.

The historic Savannah Cotton Exchange building, located on East Bay Street in Georgia, is up for sale for the first time in over a century, with an asking price of $10 million. Lawyer Richard “Dicky” Mopper from Engel & Völkers has noted the building's exceptional architectural significance, showcasing original craftsmanship that has been carefully maintained.

Spanning over 10,000 square feet and offering stunning views of the river, this property presents not only a lucrative real estate opportunity but also a unique chance for estate planners and corporate investors to own a piece of Savannah's storied history.

Jeremy Norton, a member of Solomon’s Lodge No. 1, highlights the importance of preserving the building's distinctive character for future generations. This sale marks a significant point where business interests align with heritage, drawing the attention of those involved in real estate law and historical preservation.

Jerrell Williams is taking a stand against the city of Savannah, Georgia, and former police officer Darryl Repress by filing a lawsuit for wrongful imprisonment linked to a triple murder case from 2015. Williams, whose charges were ultimately dismissed due to insufficient evidence, alleges that Repress engaged in deceptive practices, including harassment and fabricating testimonies to secure his indictment.

Williams is represented by attorney Mark Tate, who argues that city officials displayed a “deliberate indifference” to Repress's misconduct. This negligence reflects deeper, systemic problems within the Savannah Police Department.

The lawsuit seeks both punitive and compensatory damages, underscoring the significant financial and emotional toll that Williams endured during his unjust two-year incarceration. This case highlights critical issues surrounding civil rights and accountability within Georgia's criminal justice system.

In a joyous gathering at the Downtown Statesboro Art Park, hundreds of residents celebrated the city’s first-ever Christmas Tree Lighting, marking the official kickoff of the holiday season. City Manager Charles Penny and Mayor Johnathan McCollar welcomed attendees, who enjoyed the uplifting performances by the Chancel Choir from Pittman Park UMC, singing enchanting carols such as "O Holy Night."

The centerpiece of the event was a stunning 26-foot Christmas tree, which temporarily replaced a sculpture installation, shining as a symbol of community spirit and involvement. As Georgia's holiday festivities continue, this celebration underscores the vital role that local businesses and corporate participation play in enhancing community morale.

Events like the Christmas Tree Lighting not only engage families and friends but also emphasize the importance of cultivating a lively local culture. This cultural vibrancy intersects with areas such as real estate law and estate planning, reflecting the community's broader commitment to growth and connection within the state.