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Joint Investigation
Leads to Arrest
By Joe Brady, Editor
The Screven County
Sheriffs Office was contacted
by the Millen Police
Department in reference to
an ongoing investigation
where an individual in
Screven County had been
in contact with an online
underage persona of theirs.
The underage persona was
a 14-year-old female. The
persona was contacted by
Dalton Eugene Mills, 32,
from Screven County. The
contact continued for several
weeks and was sexually
explicit in nature. On Feb. 6,
2024, Mills arranged to meet
with the 14-year-old female
in Screven County. A joint
operation was assembled
including Screven County
Sheriffs office, Millen Police
Department, and Sylvania
Police Department. On
the afternoon of Feb. 6, at
approximately 4 p.m., Mills
was taken into custody off of
Newington Highway when
he drive to the undisclosed
location to meet the minor
for sexual purposes. Mills
has been charged with one
count of criminal attempt
to commit aggravated child
molestation. Additional
charges may be forthcoming
as the investigation continues.
Expanding
CodeRed Use
for County
Benefits of leveraging the
existing infrastructure
of CodeRed to keep
residents informed about
essential county updates.
Read full story on page 3
Governor
Burt Jones’s
property tax
reform
“Save Our Homes”
Act, aims to address
longstanding issues with
local property taxes.
Read full story on page 8
Millen
witnessed an
evening of joy,
laughter and
community
camaraderie
The success of the Millen
Bingo Bash is attributed
to the unwavering
support and enthusiasm
of both the organizers
and attendees.
Readfull story on page 11
Commissioners Vote
to Waive All-Star
Program Fees
-Joe Brady, Editor
In a significant move to support local youth involvement in
sports, Commissioner Jonathon Powell proposed at the monthly
Jenkins County Commissioners meeting that the All-Star
program at the Jenkins County Recreation Department should be
free of charge for parents and kids. The Commission, recognizing
the importance of fostering community spirit and supporting
young athletes, unanimously voted in favor of removing all fees
associated with the All-Star program.
During the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the county took
a commendable step by reimbursing the $100 fee for uniforms
and equipment required for participation in the All-Star
program. However, the fee was reinstated last year, prompting
Commissioner Powell to advocate for its elimination once again.
Commissioner Powell emphasized the significance of the
decision, stating, "This is the least we as a county can do for these
kids. It is an honor for them to represent our community." Powell's
sentiments resonated with fellow commissioners, who were quick
to recognize the positive impact that such a move could have on
local families and aspiring young athletes.
The All-Star program, offered through the Jenkins County
Recreation Department, provides a platform for talented youth
to showcase their skills and represent their community in various
See ALLSTARS page 5
Emergency Crews
Respond to Two
Rollover Accidents in
a Single Day
Incidents on Hwy 25 South and Cotton Ave
Result in No Life-Threatening Injuries
Local emergency crews found themselves in action Sunday
responding to two separate rollover accidents, both fortunately
devoid of life-threatening injuries. The first incident occurred
on Hwy 25 South near Gays Hill Road around 1 p.m., while the
second incident took place later in the evening on Cotton Ave.
Courthouse Safety
Upgrades Proposed
Following Fire Incident
f
-Joe Brady, Editor
In the wake of a courthouse fire several months ago, Chief Dwayne
Herrington addressed the Jenkins County Commissioners during
their recent meeting, advocating for crucial safety upgrades to
the courthouse. The fire incident prompted concerns about the
building's safety measures, leading to discussions on necessary
improvements.
Chief Herrington emphasized the need for an increased number
of smoke detectors within the courthouse, stating, "We need far
more smoke detectors than the three we currently have in the
building." Reflecting on the previous fire, Herrington explained
that the county is currently ill-equipped to handle a fire of such
magnitude. He added, "I don't know many towns that would be."
To address this concern, the county voted to not only install
additional smoke detectors but also to secure ones that could notify
the fire department in case of an emergency. The move aims to
enhance the overall safety of the courthouse and prevent potential
disasters. The unsolved case of the courthouse fire looms over
the discussions, underscoring the importance of proactive safety
measures. Chief Herrington also recommended the installation of
additional lighting and exterior cameras.
Commissioner Spann expressed the sentiment that, if funds are to
be allocated for courthouse improvements, it's essential to ensure
that all necessary upgrades are considered. "If we are going to
spend money on the courthouse, let's make sure we get everything
we need," Commissioner Spann remarked during the meeting.
In addition to the focus on fire safety, Clerk of Court Tracey
Herrington presented concerns about electrical issues on the
third floor of the courthouse. "We are using power strips, in
some instances we are using two strips together because we don't
See COURTHOUSE page 6
540 E Winthrope Ave - Millen, GA 30442
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