Man arrested for murder for hire plot
Featured Stories January 12, 2023
PRESS RELEASE – The GBI arrested a Cleveland man for criminal solicitation in an attempted murder for hire case.
The man was also arrested and charged with home invasion and aggravated assault in a separate incident in White County, Georgia.
During the course of a Cleveland Police Department investigation, evidence was found that indicated Freddie Warthen, age 31, of Cleveland, attempted to hire someone to kill a former girlfriend.
In December of 2022, the GBI was requested to investigate the murder for hire information. During the GBI investigation, Warthen’s attempt to hire someone to kill a former girlfriend was confirmed.
Agents also learned that Warthen committed an aggravated assault during a home invasion in November of 2022 when he tried to attack an individual with a knife.
The home invasion occurred in the area of Judys Drive and was not previously reported to law enforcement. On Friday, January 6, 2023, Warthen was arrested and charged with criminal solicitation, home invasion in the first degree and aggravated assault.
Upon completion of the investigation, the case will be provided to the Enotah Judicial Circuit for prosecution.
Sautee man charged with kidnapping, assault
Business, News September 21, 2022
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. — A Sautee man has been charged with kidnapping, aggravated assault, battery, criminal damage to property in the second degree, and possession of a knife during commission of a crime in relation to a domestic incident on Sept. 14.
White County Sheriff’s deputies responded to 214 Daylilly Dr., Sautee, in reference to a domestic with weapons involved. Deputies spoke with the victim, who indicated the argument between her and Wesley King, 21, was physical and led to her having minor injuries or visible marks. After investigating, the Deputy at the scene arrested King and charged him.
White County DPS report demonstrates the department’s readiness to respond to emergencies
Business June 14, 2022
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. — A look at the White County Department of Public Safety activity report issued last week demonstrates how active police, fire and emergency medical services personnel have been in protecting the citizens this year.
Since the start of 2022, the EMS/911 Communications center has responded to 34,396 requests for service. The Sheriff’s Office responded to 7,537 calls, EMS/Medical Services (691), White County Fire Department (533), Cleveland Fire Dept. (110), Helen Fire Dept. (105), Public Works (56) and Animal Control (1,031).
The Emergency Management Division has responded to 22 requests for service, engaged in 88 hours of public education services and the Citizens Emergency Response Team C.E.R.T. has conducted 275 hours of team training.
Two Cleveland men charged with overdose murder
Business, News June 13, 2022
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. — The Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office and White County Sheriff’s Office arrested two Cleveland men on Friday (June 10) who are charged with the overdose murder of Dylan Jimmy Grizzle in White County.
Grizzle’s body was discovered at a residence on Gordon Road in Cleveland in November 2021 and after a six-month long investigation, GBI-ARDEO and the White County Sheriff’s Office charged the following:
Cory Garland Seabolt, age 42, of Cleveland, GA for: Felony murder, distribution of fentanyl, concealing the death of another person, hindering an emergency telephone call, and false statements; concealing facts.
Christopher Brandon McJunkin, age 31, of Cleveland, GA was also arrested for false statements; concealing facts.
This is an ongoing investigation.
For additional information about Appalachian RDEO or to provide tips on criminal activity, look for ARDEO@appalachiandtf on Twitter or follow on facebook@appalachianrdeo and/or Instagram.
The Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office is a multi-agency unit that consists of the following Sheriff’s Offices: White County, Lumpkin County, Banks County, Jackson County, Habersham County, Stephens County, Rabun County, Franklin County, Gilmer County, Fannin County, the Cleveland Police Department and the Toccoa Police Department, along with the Georgia National Guard Counter Drug Task Force, the Georgia State Patrol, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Cleveland man drowns in Chattahoochee River
News January 12, 2022
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. – The White County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 11000 block of Highway 75 North. in reference to a person who was in the Chattahoochee River.
First responders were able to get the male, Thomas “Tony” Martin, 64, Cleveland out of the river and began performing CPR. Martin was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. The
Sheriff’s Office investigated the incident, which appears to be accidental at this time.
5 arrested in White County on drug charges
News October 5, 2021
WHITE COUNTY, Ga – Agents with the Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office (ARDEO), Department of Community Supervision and White County Sheriff’s Office arrested five people in the Kellum Valley community last week on various drug charges and an outstanding warrant.
The agents also confiscated $15,000 in stolen property.
Those arrested include:
- Nicholas Chaney Toler, 30, of Gainesville, possession of methamphetamine and heroin;
- John David Howard, 42, of Gainesville, outstanding warrant in Hall County;
- Michael Kelly Small, 55, of Cleveland, possession of methamphetamine and Controlled Substance Schedule II (Adderall);
- Stephanie Dawn Watson, 40, of Cleveland, possession of methamphetamine;
- Desiray Lane Rider, 33, of Cleveland, possession of methamphetamine.
The arrests were the result of tips and complaints received from White County citizens.
Anyone who would like to submit a tip can call ARDEO at 706-348-7410 or the White County Sheriff’s Office at706-865-5177.
Assault in Smithgall Woods Park leads to arrest of Lawrenceville man
News October 1, 2021
Austin Blake Smith
WHITE COUNTY, Ga — An incident at Smithgall Woods State Park led to the arrest of a Lawrenceville man on Sept. 25.
Austin Blake Smith, 24, has been charged with criminal attempt to commit home invasion, four counts of aggravated assault, criminal damage to property in the second degree, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, interference with government property, and motor vehicle theft.
According to White County Sheriff’s Office press release, deputies deputies were called to a cabin on Dukes Hollow Road inside the park to investigate a reported assault. When they arrived, the victim said she was assaulted outside of a cabin where she was staying with a group of people. She said the suspect, later identified as Blake was armed but she escaped.
Smith allegedly stole a vehicle belonging to a member of the group. Deputies were able to track Smith a short distance to an area of Alternate Highway 75 and Asbestos Road, arrest him and transport him to the White County jail.
(Photo courtesy of White County Sheriff’s Office)
White County K9 Henzo receives bullet, stab proof vest
News September 24, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. – White County Sheriff’s Office K9 Henzo will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
K9 Henzo’s vest is sponsored by National Police Association of Indianapolis, IN and will be embroidered with the sentiment “Gifted by NationalPolice.org”. Delivery is expected within eight to ten weeks.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S.-made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified.
Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 4,381 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.
The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $960 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,744-$2,283, weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.
North Georgia law enforcement agencies join forces in major drug investigation
Press Release July 28, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. — On July 26 and July 27, 2021, several arrests were made across North Georgia as the culmination of an 18-month investigation conducted by the White County Sheriff’s Office, Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office, Hall County Sheriff’s Office, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office.
The investigation began in early 2020 in White County and eventually led agents to seize approximately four pounds of methamphetamine, nine firearms, and $8,000 in drug proceeds. The approximate street value of the methamphetamine is $28,000.00.
The following individuals have been charged with violating the Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act:
Mary Pamela Clay, 61, of Cleveland
Ralph Lonnie Cochran, 57, of Cleveland
Travis Blake Cooper, 38, of Dahlonega
Dennis Jason Dick, 49, of Gainesville
Bradley Patrick Harkins, 33, of Dahlonega
Kathryn Cochran Lambert, 59, of Cleveland
Stacey Callaway Oliver, 41, of Clermont
The investigation is still active and ongoing.
ARDEO encourages citizens to report any suspicious drug activity via Facebook IM (@AppalachianRDEO) or at 706-348-7410 or contact your local Sheriff’s Office or Police Department.
The Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office is a multi-agency unit that consists of the following Sheriff’s Offices: White County, Lumpkin County, Towns County, Banks County, Jackson County, Habersham County, Stephens County, Rabun County and Franklin County, Gilmer County, Fannin County, along with the Cleveland Police Department, the Toccoa Police Department, the Georgia National Guard Counter Drug Task Force, Georgia State Patrol, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Gainesville man dies after arrest in White County
News May 25, 2021
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. –Joe Sertain, 38, of Gainesville, an inmate at the White County Detention Center, suffered a medical emergency Monday (May 24) while in jail and was transported to Northeast Georgia Detention Center where later died.
Captain Clay Hammond of the White County Sheriff’s Office said Sertain and Joey Loggins were arrested earlier that day on outstanding warrants and possession of methamphetamine.
The Sheriff’s Office has requested the Georgia Bureau of Investigation handle the investigation.
Cleveland man charged with kidnapping
Business May 18, 2021
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. – A 43-year-old Cleveland man has been charged with kidnapping, cruelty to children in the first and third degree and simple battery.
On May 15, White County deputies responded to 249 Westmoreland Meadows Dr., in reference to a physical domestic incident involving Jason Millwood and two juveniles. Prior to deputies arriving, Millwood left the residence. Deputies collected evidence and statements, which led to the charges. He was arrested later this date in Habersham County on un-related charges and brought to White County on May 17. He is being held in White County Detention Center without bond.
Cleveland man charged with burglary
Press Release April 8, 2021PRESS RELEASE
Justin Owenby
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. — On April 4, 2021 the White County Sheriff’s Office responded to 302 New Bridge Road in reference to a burglary. Justin Owenby, 22 of Cleveland was arrested at the residence and charged with burglary 1st degree and criminal damage to Property 2nd Degree. Owenby was charged with Entering Auto and Criminal Damage to Property 2nd degree from an incident at 304 New Bridge Road that was discovered around the same time as the other call. The victim from the 304 New Bridge Rd. incident alerted the victim at 302 the suspect was inside their house at the time. Owenby damaged items belonging to both victims.
North Carolina woman charged with serious injury by vehicle
Business March 17, 2021
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. — A 43-year-old Warne, N.C. woman has been charged with serious injury by vehicle following an incident at Hulsey Rd. and NOK Drive last week.
On Mar. 11, at 11:19 pm, the White County Sheriff’s Office responded in reference to an adult male with injuries. Deputies made contact with 23-year-old Corey Porch Jr. who, at the time, was unable to recall what happened. Deputies located evidence, which led them to believe Porch was struck by a vehicle, that left the scene.
Investigators with the Sheriff’s Office followed up on the incident, resulting in the arrest of Sheba Renee Maree. Maree is also charged with serious failure to report an accident and obstruction of law enforcement officers.
2-year-old suffers serious dog bite injuries after walking away from home
Press Release March 7, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. – On Friday, Mar. 5, White County Sheriff’s Office responded to 243 Hiawatha Hills Rd. in reference to a missing 2-year old, who had been missing for a short period of time. As Deputies arrived, they were met by the child’s mother and another adult, who had located the child at a neighbor’s residence, where it appeared he had walked to. Deputies learned the child had been bitten multiple times, by a group of dogs and had serious injuries. The child was transported to the hospital by White County EMS and was last said to be in stable condition.
Multiple law enforcement agencies seize drugs, weapons
News, Press Release February 25, 2021
HALL COUNTY, Ga. – Law enforcement agencies from Lumpkin, White and Hall counties joined forces with the Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office (ARDEO) to remove three pounds of methamphetamine and nine firearms off the street Tuesday (Feb. 23.).
After a four-month investigation, ARDEO agents served a search warrant at 7058 Britt Gailey Road in Clermont and arrested the following people:
- Stacey Callaway Oliver, 41, of Clermont, charged with trafficking methamphetamine, possession of a Schedule 1 Controlled Substance, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony;
- Rosa Estrada, 34, of Gainesville, charged with trafficking methamphetamine;
- Wesley Oliver, 55, of Clermont, charged with possession of methamphetamine;
The methamphetamine seized possessed a street value of $21,000 dollars. During the investigation it was determined that this drug organization was supplying illegal drugs to a large area in Northeast Georgia
This investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are expected.
For additional information about ARDEO or to provide tips on criminal activity look for ARDEO@appalachiandtf on twitter or follow on facebook@appalachianrdeo and/or Instagram.
The Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office is a multi-agency unit that consists of the following Sheriff’s Offices: White County, Lumpkin County, Towns County, Banks County, Jackson County, Habersham County, Stephens County, Rabun County, Franklin County, Gilmer County, Fannin County, the Cleveland Police Department, and Toccoa Police Department, along with the Georgia National Guard Counter Drug Task Force, the Department of PublicSafety, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that covers Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYN attracts 300,000+ page views per month, 3.5 million impressions per month and approximately 15,000 viewers per week on FYNTV.com and up to 60,000 Facebook page reach. If you would like to follow up-to-date local events in any of those counties, please visit us at FetchYourNews.com
Cleveland woman charged with drug trafficking
Business February 25, 2021
WHITE COUNTY, Ga — A 60-year-old Cleveland woman was arrested following a two-month drug investigation on February 17.
Mary Pamela Clay, 60, of Cleveland, GA was charged with trafficking of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana with Intent to distribute. Also assisting with the investigation were the White County Sheriff’s Office, Cleveland Police Department and Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office.
Approximately 2.5 ounces of Methamphetamine and 1.5 ounces of Marijuana, along with $3,183 in cash were seized as a part of the investigation. The illegal drugs seized during the investigation possessed a street value of $2,000 dollars.
This investigation is still active and ongoing.
For additional information about Appalachian RDEO or to provide tips on criminal activity look for ARDEO@appalachiandtf on twitter or follow on facebook@appalachianrdeo and/or Instagram.
The Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office is a multi-agency unit that consists of the following Sheriff’s Offices: White County, Lumpkin County, Towns County, Banks County, Jackson County, Habersham County, Stephens County, Rabun County, Franklin County, Gilmer County, Fannin County, the Cleveland Police Department and the Toccoa Police Department, along with the Georgia National Guard Counter Drug Task Force, the Department of Public Safety, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
(Photo courtesy of ARDEO)