Calhoun, GA Attorney News Archive

Recent research conducted by Dana Barr from Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health has found that 76% of participants in the Rome and Calhoun areas of Georgia show significant PFAS contamination levels, which are higher than the national average. This study, part of a pilot program designed to assess environmental safety, indicates that the risk of exposure increases for individuals who have lived in these areas for extended periods, especially in Floyd County.

Barr presented these concerning findings at a meeting of the Rome Rotary Club, where she called for more investigation into the potential health effects associated with these persistent chemicals, often referred to as "forever chemicals."

In response to these alarming contamination levels, the City of Rome recently negotiated an $184 million settlement with textile manufacturers to improve water filtration systems. This initiative marks a critical move towards addressing the public health crisis posed by PFAS contamination.

Legal professionals and elected officials are encouraged to stay informed on these developments, as they have significant implications for business operations, civil litigation, and real estate laws in the region.

A tragic accident on Tuesday evening at Georgia Loop 1 and Calhoun Road has deeply affected the Floyd County community with the loss of 15-year-old David Clemones. This incident, which involved two vehicles, is currently under investigation by local authorities. As a result of the crash, three individuals were transported to Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center for treatment.

Clemones was a cherished student and athlete at Armuchee High School, which has expressed its profound sorrow through social media channels. The school emphasized the importance of communal support during this difficult time, highlighting the impact of the loss on students and families.

In light of the incident, discussions around liability and potential civil litigation are emerging. However, both residents and officials are prioritizing healing and honoring the memory of the young teen. The school community has committed to providing ongoing emotional support for those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.

On August 23, a tragic high-speed pursuit led to the arrest of 44-year-old Matthew Allen Pickens from Calhoun, Georgia. He has been charged with homicide by vehicle along with several serious traffic violations following a fatal crash on Rome Road.

Pickens fled from law enforcement and was ultimately apprehended in Tennessee. He is currently in custody in Gordon County, facing multiple counts related to civil infractions and criminal defense matters focused on traffic safety.

The fatal crash resulted in one occupant's death and left two others with severe injuries. The Georgia State Patrol, along with local officials, is actively investigating the incident.

Dade County's emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene to assist the victims, underscoring the need for more stringent traffic regulations. As the case progresses, it raises important questions about ongoing legislative efforts aimed at enhancing road safety throughout Georgia.

In Floyd County, Georgia, two individuals have been arrested on serious charges connected to child cruelty and elder exploitation. Nicholas A. Simmons, 40, was taken into custody for creating unsanitary living conditions that endangered children. Meanwhile, Yvonda Smith Scales, 50, faces accusations of stealing rent money from an elderly man, raising alarming issues related to personal injury law and civil litigation in cases of exploitation.

Additionally, during a routine traffic stop, Thomas Michael Haney, 68, was charged with felony possession of methamphetamine. Law enforcement officials from Rome and Silver Creek are actively working to address growing concerns related to criminal defense, tackling a range of offenses from aggravated stalking to theft.

These incidents emphasize the urgent need for legal awareness and vigilance within communities throughout Georgia.

Casey Herron, a 36-year-old from Calhoun, Georgia, has been arrested and charged with making terroristic threats after he allegedly threatened to shoot Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) agents. His apprehension followed a call he made to the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency on June 22, 2025.

In response to Herron's threats, local law enforcement, including the Calhoun Police Department and GBI, acted swiftly. The next day, authorities executed a search warrant at Herron’s home on Jolly Road NW, leading to his arrest without incident.

The GBI expressed gratitude towards the Calhoun Police for their cooperation in handling this criminal defense case. As the investigation is still ongoing, once completed, the findings will be sent to the Gordon County District Attorney's Office for prosecution. This situation underscores the important connection between civil litigation and public safety in the area.

In a major move against drug-related crimes, the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office has successfully dismantled a meth lab located on Tara Drive in Calhoun, Georgia. During an extensive search of a private residence, sheriff’s detectives, alongside Probation and Parole officers, uncovered significant quantities of both solid and liquid methamphetamine.

The investigation was focused on the manufacturing and distribution of meth, resulting in the arrest of 62-year-old Tracy Van McEntyre. He now faces multiple charges, including production and trafficking of methamphetamine.

This operation emphasizes the persistent fight against drug offenses in Georgia and points to larger issues concerning civil litigation and criminal defense as the legal system prepares for McEntyre’s upcoming prosecution. Local officials are also advocating for strengthened law enforcement efforts to tackle narcotics and employment challenges linked to drug abuse in the community.