Major Adam Smith Promoted to Chief Deputy
Announcements, Announcements, Community, Police & Government January 22, 2024
Gilmer man arrested for drug bust is tied to several burglaries
Featured Stories January 25, 2023
PRESS RELEASE – Following up on an investigation in which Fannin County Sheriff’s Office and Agents of the Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office (ARDEO) seized 1600 grams of Methamphetamine, Gilmer County Detectives and Agents of the ARDEO executed a Search Warrant at the residence of JACOB DAVIS, age 44, in the area of Old Flat Creek Road.
During the execution of this Search Warrant, 638 grams of Methamphetamine was seized. DAVIS, a convicted felon, was also in possession of 33 firearms, one of which was stolen out of Fannin County.
Once the stolen firearm was determined to be from Fannin County, Fannin Detectives reviewed their reports and determined other stolen items from the same Burglary report were at Davis’s location.
Fannin and Gilmer Detectives then located a storage container with an unusual amount of power tools, tied to multiple Fannin County burglaries, which was seized and turned over to Fannin County.
DAVIS was arrested at the scene and transported to the Gilmer County Adult Detention Center and charged with Trafficking Methamphetamines and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
Sheriff Nicholson states, “Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office and ARDEO are continuing to make as big of a dent as possible in the illegal drug trade in North Georgia. This case also demonstrates the exceptional coordinated effort of GCSO with surrounding agencies.”
Armed Robbery and Arrest
Featured Stories January 10, 2023
PRESS RELEASE – On January 9, 2023 at approximately 6:30 PM Gilmer County E911 received a call regarding a robbery in progress at 311 Old Northcutt Road in Ellijay.
At 6:36 PM officers from the Ellijay Police Department, East Ellijay Police Department, and deputies of the Gilmer Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene and, through a coordinated effort, took custody of two suspects: Shawn Sutton (39) and Melody Sutton (39) of Damascus Road in Blue Ridge, Ga.
Melody Sutton
Shawn Sutton
Just prior to 6:30 PM, Shawn Sutton entered the Ideal Mart posing as a customer purchasing an energy drink.
His wife, Melody, waited in a parked car outside the store. Inside the store at the time was the store clerk and two customers with a third customer at the gas pumps.
After obtaining the energy drink, the suspect pulled a pair of women’s panties from around his neck to cover his face.
He went behind the counter and pointed a .45 cal. pistol at the head of the clerk and demanded all the money.
A customer, legally carrying a concealed pistol, produced his firearm and intervened in the robbery while the second customer went to his vehicle, obtained his pistol, and returned to assist the first customer in subduing the suspect.
The suspect was attempting to leave when the customer at the gas pumps, also armed, came inside to assist. The first customer, seeing that the suspect had been disarmed, verbally instructed the other customers not to shoot the suspect.
At this time law enforcement officers arrived on the scene. One officer encountered the suspect, still attempting to leave, and gave him verbal commands to stop and get down.
When the suspect failed to comply with the officer’s verbal commands the officer engaged the suspect with an electronic control weapon (commonly referred to as a Taser) and he was taken into custody.
Other officers arriving on the scene found the suspect’s wife in the couple’s car, parked off to the side of the store. She was taken into custody without incident.
Shawn Sutton is charged with one count of Armed Robbery, one count of Aggravated Assault, and one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
The pair are being held in the Gilmer County Adult Detention Center without bond.
Drug seizure in Gilmer County worth $24,000
Featured News January 10, 2023
ELLIJAY, Ga. – Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office announced today that they had successfully removed thousands of dollars worth of Methamphetamines off the streets.
The seizure was accompanied by the arrest of Ashley Turner, 42, of Ellijay.
Ashley Jane Turner
The Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office released the following statement in regards to the seizure and arrest:
More than a 2-month long narcotics investigation comes to an end GCSO Deputies and Agents of the Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office (ARDEO) jointly began a drug distribution investigation in November which culminated in the arrest of ASHLEY JANE TURNER, age 42, of Ellijay, and the seizure of more than four (4) kilograms of Methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $24,000. Turner was distributing methamphetamines to multiple individuals in Gilmer, Pickens, Cherokee, Dawson, Murray, and into the state of Tennessee.
During the course of the investigation, Agents of the Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad (CMANS), along with Pickens County Georgia Sheriff’s Office, Fannin County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force assisted in aspects of the case.
Sheriff Nicholson stated, “My Deputies and drug agents made a dent in the methamphetamine availability in Gilmer County with this investigation. It’s not absolute nor is it a permanent dent, but it certainly sends this message to drug dealers in North Georgia…’we are here, and we are coming soon to a drug bust near you!’ This was a great collaborative effort by several agencies, and I thank them all for their assistance.”
Reported murder in Gilmer County
Featured Stories, Police & Government October 13, 2022
GILMER COUNTY, Ga.- On the morning of Oct. 12, 2022, Gilmer County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to a reported medical emergency a 11866 Tails Creek Road in Gilmer County for Ashley Peterson (29).
Upon arrival, First Responders observed the injuries of the patient and requested Detectives of Gilmer County Criminal Investigation Division (CID) to respond. Upon CID’s arrival, Detectives requested assistance from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI). Peterson was transported by EMS to the Emergency Room at Piedmont Mountainside Medical Center in Ellijay, Georgia.
The investigation revealed there was a physical altercation between the victim, Peterson, and the victim’s boyfriend, Johnathan Kyle Tatum (25). Peterson was later pronounced deceased at the hospital.
Johnathan Kyle Tatum
Johnathan Kyle Tatum’s booking report.
Page 2 of the booking report.
It was determined Peterson’s death was a result of injuries caused by Tatum. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has formally charged Tatum with Murder. Tatum is currently being held in the Gilmer County Adult Detention Center.
UPDATE:
FYN has learned that Tatum has been arrested for a previous family violence charge with a different victim and a DUI charge. At this time it is unknown whether Tatum was convicted of these prior crimes.
BOLO for Leonard Higdon
Announcements, Featured Stories, Police & Government, Press Release October 8, 2022
GILMER COUNTY, Ga.- Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office has issued a BOLO for Leonard Higdon on behalf of Williston, North Dakota.
Emergency: Dial 911Non-emergency: 701-577-1212Dispatch Direct: 701-713-3355
Send an anonymous text via ND Tip: Text the keyword NDWILLIAMS and your message/tip to 847411. Please include as much detail as possible. You may also send pictures or video attachments.Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office PSA on Internet Safety
Announcements, Community, Police & Government, Press Release October 7, 2022
GILMER COUNTY, Ga.- The Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office has issued a public service announcement on internet safety for children.
300 Rapid COVID Tests Donated to GCSO for Employees/Inmates
Community January 14, 2022
Public Safety Coalition offers advice on how to stay healthy and signs to watch fo
Community, News March 18, 2020
GILMER COUNTY, Ga. – A coalition of public safety, government entities, and service agencies in Gilmer County has been meeting to respond to the threat and concerns of COVID -19 (Coronavirus) and is reaching out to citizens for information, response, prevention, and overall health during this time.
The coalition consists of Gilmer County Emergency Management Agency, Gilmer County Fire and Rescue, Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office, City of Ellijay Police Department, City of Ellijay Fire Department, City of East Ellijay Police Department, and the Gilmer County School Board.
After a meeting on March 13 to address the community’s current concerns over the corona virus outbreak, many business, government entities, and agencies have either closed down or closed public access.
According to a recent release from this coalition, “Some of those concerns called for tough decisions that, in an abundance of caution, resulted in the temporary closing of our schools and the cancellation of some local events. These are temporary in nature and will be evaluated on a daily or weekly basis as the virus runs its natural course.”
They have also reiterated that no COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Gilmer, Fannin, or Pickens county at this time and urged citizens to “remain calm, keep our wits about us and make reasonable purchases at our markets to allow other family members and neighbors to make similar purchases.”
The Coalition will meet every two weeks, and more frequently if necessary.
They have also made a release with helpful information to protect yourselves, your loved ones, and your neighbors:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately. Emergency warning signs include:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or inability to arouse from sleep
- Bluish lips or face
Ghost Face Gang member apprehended in Gilmer County
News January 6, 2020
GILMER, Co, Ga – Around 7:30 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 6, Gilmer Sheriff’s deputies, U.S. Marshals Service, and Cherokee Sheriff’s Office, executed a Search Warrant for Ghost Face Gang member Travis Lee Zimmerman, age 30. He’s wanted across Georgia and Tennessee for multiple violations.
Three months ago, Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) had received information pertaining to Zimmerman’s activities and began a drug and gang activity investigation. According to the Georgia Dept. of Corrections, he’s a confirmed member of the Ghost Face Gang. Within the last few days, the U.S. Marshals Service, who was also searching for Zimmerman as a fugitive, received a tip that Zimmerman was in Gilmer County.
GSCO executed a search warrant and took Zimmerman was taken into custody for pending charges in multiple jurisdictions. In addition, Zimmerman will face charges of Trafficking Methamphetamines, Georgia Gang and Terrorism Act, and Obstruction of an Officer in Gilmer County.
Henson was found in the residence with Zimmerman.
Also, found at the residence were Linda Henson and Claude Morgan, who will both be charged with Trafficking Methamphetamine and Obstruction of an Officer in Gilmer County.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available. Photos are courtesy of GCSO.
Morgan was also arrested on trafficking methamphetamine charges.
*Updated* Gilmer Sheriff issues BOLO for Fleeing Felony Offender
News April 30, 2019
***UPDATED BOLO – Fugitive JEREMY CRUSE from Walton County has not been located yet, but we are still actively searching today. A female passenger that ran was taken into custody yesterday and is currently in the Gilmer County Jail.
As a reminder, please keep your homes and cars secured and locked. Continue to be on the lookout and if you see anything suspicious, please call 911 immediately.
5/1/19 9:38am #gilmersheriff
Gilmer County, GA
***BOLO – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Earlier this afternoon, Sheriff’s deputies, along with Ellijay PD and Georgia State Patrol, were involved in a police chase with a 2010 red Ford Fusion allegedly driven by JEREMY CRUSE, age 34. After the chase ended on Gentry Drive up behind the Gilmer County Emergency Room/Nursing Home, the suspect ran on foot into a wooded area. It was learned that the subject has active felony warrants out of Walton County and is currently being sought by the Walton County GA Sheriff’s Office.
Currently, the Emergency Room, Nursing Home, and all schools in the vicinity including Gilmer High School, Middle School, and Mountainview Elementary, are on lockdown for safety of the public.
If you see this individual, use caution and do not approach, and call 911 immediately.
5:40pm #gilmersheriff
Home Invasion Attempt Lands Suspect in Hospital
News November 6, 2018
Gilmer County, GA
Preliminary report in regarding a domestic home invasion which occurred on the evening of Tuesday, November 6th. Gilmer County Sheriff’s office assisted by Ellijay Police Department responded to a domestic related, attempted home invasion in the western portion of Gilmer County.
Officers approaching the scene were met with an armed suspect. Multiple shots were fired. The suspect has been transported to an area hospital. No officers were injured. The GBI is conducting an investigation at the request of the Sheriff’s office.
FetchYourNews will update as additional details become available.
Drugs, Weapons, & Cash seized in Gilmer Deputy’s traffic stop
News January 4, 2017
L-R: Deputy Jason Jw Holcombe, K-9 Hella, and Corporal Andy Page
According to the Gilmer County Sheriff’s office a traffic stop resulted in a drug bust.
Wednesday at approximately 1:30 a.m. on January 4th, Corporal Andy Page conducted a traffic stop on Hwy. 515 south of the Hwy. 382 connector on a blue in color Chevrolet Malibu.
Upon making contact with the two occupants, Cpl. page smelled the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. A subsequent search of the occupants and vehicle by Page and Deputy Jason Holcombe yielded approximately 12.5 grams of marijuana, 11 Hydrocodone tablets, 25 Ecstasy tablets, and over $3,300 in cash. A Smith and Wesson handgun was also seized during the stop. Both occupants were arrested
Great job by Cpl. Page, his beloved partner K-9 Hella, Deputy Jason Holcombe and the entire “A” night shift for their assistance.
GCSO Arrest Report 1/18 to 1/24
Arrest Reports January 26, 2016
The Georgia Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. 50-18-70) allows for www.fetchyournews.com to obtain and post the arrest records of any and all individuals arrested in Gilmer County. Those arrests are posted on www.fetchyournews.com for viewing pleasure. Please remember that all individuals listed have been arrested and charged, however, they are presumed innocent until guilt has been proven in a court of law.
Developments Continue in Child Pornography Case
News July 24, 2015
FYN has learned of a recent arrest made in Gilmer County in the further developing story of William Sautter, 76, in relation to Child Molestation.
You’ll recall Mr. Sautter was previously arrested on charges of Sexual Exploitation of Children and Tampering with Evidence as reported in our previous article. He was released on July 13th on the bond of $80,000 with Appalachian Bail Bonds according to Superior Court Clerk Glenda Sue Johnson.
After the stories of his arrest ran in several media outlets, GBI (Georgia Bureau of Investigation) Inspector Sherry Lang reports they received additional information alleging Sautter was also involved in Child Molestation.
Due to this new evidence, Sautter has been arrested again on the new charges and currently remains in custody at the Gilmer County Adult Detention Center who say there is no bond as of right now.
GCSO Press Release
Featured Stories, News November 25, 2013
On November 21st, Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Jimmy Long conducted a traffic stop on Highway 52 East near Big Creek Road. The stop was initiated because the driver failed to use his turn signal properly. During the initial contact, the driver seemed to be impaired and was asked to complete field sobriety tests. (more…)