About The Sylvania times. (Sylvania, Ga.) 2022-current | View Entire Issue (Dec. 13, 2023)
m Editorials ...11 | Church News ...3 | Sports ...4-5 | Obituaries ...6 | Legals ...7 | Farm & Land...10 | Comics 8 | Booking Log ...9 , J CO o £ CO in <ji a o CO o CO Underage Individual and Young Adults Arrested on Drug and Gun Charges in Sylvania By Joe Brady, Editor for The Times A 16-year-old and several young adults found themselves on the wrong side of the law last Friday, December 8, as they were arrested on charges related to drugs and firearms. The minor has been transferred to the Youth Development Campus (YDC) in Augusta, while the other adults are currently being held in the Screven County Jail. The incident unfolded around 10:30 last Thursday when the Sylvania Police Department received a dispatch to McDonald's in response to reports of several black males brandishing AR-style guns. Corporal Carmon, who was among the officers responding to the call, encountered two individuals standing near a white Ford Fusion in the fast-food restaurant's parking lot. "I noticed a strong smell of marijuana emanating from the car," stated Corporal Camion. The young men were promptly asked to exit the vehicle, leading to a subsequent search that uncovered more than an ounce of marijuana concealed under the driver's seat. Additionally, a black backpack found in the trunk yielded further incriminating evidence. In plain view on the rear seat was an AR-style rifle. Another rifle was discovered in the subsequent search. Following the discovery, the suspects were taken into custody and transported to the Screven County Jail. They now face charges including possession of a Schedule 1 dmg, specifically marijuana, as well as possession of drug- related objects. In a more serious charge, the individuals were also accused of possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony. The arrests underscore the collaborative efforts of law enforcement to address concerns related to dmg possession and firearm misuse in the community. The Sylvania Police Department remains vigilant in its commitment to maintaining public safety and will continue to investigate incidents that pose a threat to the well-being of residents. The legal proceedings for the arrested individuals will unfold in the coming weeks as they face the consequences of the charges filed against them. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities to ensure a safer environment for all. Congressman Rick Allen's Staff to Provide Constituent Assistance at Screven County Courthouse By Joe Brady, Editor for The Times To address the concerns and queries of constituents, Congressman Rick Allen's staff will be conducting a special session at the Screven County Courthouse on Friday, December 15, 2023, from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. This event aims to assist residents ofthe GA-12 district with various federal issues, including but not limited to social security, veteran's affairs, Medicare, and more. While Congressman Rick Allen will not be in attendance, his dedicated team is poised to engage in one-on-one interactions with constituents, providing valuable assistance and guidance. The session is designed to offer personalized support, enabling residents to navigate federal programs and services effectively. "I invite anyone seeking help with a federal issue to take advantage of my office's one-on-one services. If you need assistance, our team will help," expressed Congressman Allen. This initiative underscores the commitment of the Congressman and his staff to ensuring that the concerns of GA-12 district residents are heard and addressed promptly. Unlike a formal presentation, the office hours will facilitate direct communication between Congressman Allen's staff and the residents. This approach allows for a more individualized and focused interaction, ensuring that each constituent receives the attention and support they require. Residents are encouraged to bring any relevant documentation or information related to their concerns for a more efficient and productive consultation. Whether it's assistance with social security benefits, navigating veteran's affairs programs, understanding Medicare, or any other federal issue, the Congressman's team is ready to provide the necessary guidance. Obstruction Case Takes a Turn as State Issues Nolle Prosequi Due to Insufficient Evidence Attorney Commends Prosecution's Decision and Highlights Procedural Error Bv Joe Brady, Editor for The Times In a surprising twist, the Obstruction and Disorderly case reported by the Sylvania Times last week took an unexpected turn when the State issued a nolle prosequi, dismissing all charges against the accused. The court documents cited "insufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt" as the primary reason for the dismissal. Duff Ayers, the attorney representing the accused, released a written statement expressing gratitude towards Screven County State Court Solicitor General Evelyn Flubbard for her decision to dismiss the case. Ayers commended Flubbard for her independent investigation into the facts and a thorough review of applicable law, leading to the conclusion that the accused did not commit a crime. Ayers had filed a motion the previous week to dismiss the case, pointing out a procedural error in the charging process. The arresting officer had allegedly failed to use the correct paperwork when filing charges against the defendant. In his statement, Ayers stated, "We commend Screven County State Court Solicitor General Evelyn Flubbard for dismissing this case. Ms. Flubbard received this case file late last week and independently investigated the facts and reviewed all applicable law. She reached the right and just conclusion: my client did not commit a crime." The attorney also acknowledged the community's support, emphasizing the impact the case had on the accused and her family. Ayers conveyed the family's gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and support, requesting privacy as they navigate the aftermath of what he described as a "terrifying, traumatic, and outrageous incident." NASA visits STEAM students On Tuesday, December 5th Screven County Middle School 6th and 7th grade STEAM students had the unique experience of meeting with retired NASA employee, Mr. John Halsema. Mr. Halsema shared with students what it was like to work for NASA for 35 years, his varying jobs, and his experiences with astronauts such as Senator John Glenn. He also discussed the importance of science, math, and engineering in our schools and how important it is for our students, the next generation of explorers, to work hard and follow their dreams. ARREST MADE IN JENKINS COUNTY BOMB THREAT Mr. Flalsema with one of Mrs. McAfee’s 6th grade STEAM classes. By Joe Brady, Editor for The Times Jenkins County, Dec. 11, 2023 — A minor, unsuspecting of the consequences, found themselves at the center of a serious investigation after an email warning of a bomb threat to the Jenkins County school was sent to Superintendent Dr. J.R Heam. The incident prompted immediate action, leading to the cancellation of school and subsequent law enforcement efforts. By 2 p.m., Monday, the combined efforts of local law enforcement and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) led to the apprehension of a minor allegedly responsible for the threats. Dr. Heam expressed gratitude in another statement, saying, “Thanks to our sheriffs department. Due to their diligence and hard work, they have identified the person responsible for the threats made to our school and have that person in custody.”
