Two Walker County residents are behind bars, facing multiple charges in what authorities are calling a horrific case of animal cruelty. Ronald Lee Jackson, 48, and his wife, 43-year-old Melissa Sue Jackson, were arrested on July 1st by police in Morven—just 18 miles from the Florida state line. The couple had outstanding warrants and was transported back to Walker County on July 2nd. The case began on June 30th, when Walker County deputies responded to an open door at a business on McFarland Avenue in Rossville. What they found inside was disturbing: three dogs dead, and five others barely clinging to life. One of those, a malnourished puppy, later died. The animals were discovered in a small, sweltering room without food, water, or ventilation. The floor was soaked in urine and feces, and the air was thick with flies and maggots. Among the surviving animals were two Chihuahuas and two puppies—all in poor condition and covered in waste. The puppies were later diagnosed with Parvo, a serious and often fatal disease in dogs. Ronald Jackson reportedly told investigators the dogs had been moved to the business location because the couple was living in a hotel. He later surrendered the remaining animals to the local shelter. Despite this, neither he nor his wife turned themselves in. The Jacksons now face a total of 17 charges, including six felony counts of aggravated cruelty to animals, multiple misdemeanors, and violations of Georgia’s rabies control laws. If convicted on the felony charges alone, each could face up to 30 years in prison and fines of up to 90 thousand dollars.
Seven felony arrests in Walker County on Monday. Among those charged, 25-year-old Austin William Thompson was arrested on terroristic threats and hindering a 911-call. 51-year-old James Adam Long faces several charges including possession of meth, suspended license, DUI and other violations. Ken Eugene Pennington, a 59-year-old was booked on multiple drug charges including distribution of a schedule II, three counts of possession of schedule II, two counts of possession of a schedule IV, possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, along with other charges. A 17-year-old, Christopher James Dunn was arrested on a distribution of marijuana charge.
Georgia drivers—slow down. Starting July 14, law enforcement will crack down on speeding as part of Operation Southern Slow Down. The week-long campaign spans five states and targets dangerous driving on highways. In Georgia alone, speeding killed 349 people last year—a sharp increase from 2019. Officers will boost patrols, set up checkpoints, and focus on high-traffic areas. Last year, Georgia issued over 12,000 citations during the campaign. For your safety—and others’—ease off the gas.
The Walker County campus of Georgia Northwestern Technical College is gearing up for an open house tomorrow. GNTC will host an Open House from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at all six of its campuses across northwest Georgia. Prospective students and families can tour facilities, explore programs, and get help with admissions, financial aid, and more. Plus, the college is waiving application fees for attendees and offering free GNTC giveaways. For full details, visit gntc.edu.