VOLUME 23 NUMBER 16
FREE
JULY 15, 2017
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Video of DeKalb police officer beating woman, prompts GBI probe Outraged Civil Rights activists demand swift action By Valerie J. Morgan The DeKalb County police officer who was captured on video beating a 38-year-old woman during arrest inside a convenience store has outraged civil rights activists who are demanding swift action. Police Chief James W. Conroy said the Georgia Bureau of Investigation is now looking into the matter. Conroy said in a statement the GBI was asked to investigate following a meeting with DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond, “who stressed the importance of a factual, independent investigation based on the new video evidence and other pertinent information.” The Police Department’s Internal Affairs had said a few days ago it was re-opening the investigation involving Officer P.J. Larscheid’s actions after learning of the June 4 video, which went viral. The one-minute, 39-second video shows Larscheid repeatedly using his baton to beat 38-year-old Katie McCrary inside a Chevron convenience store at 3364 Glenwood Road in South DeKalb County. Larscheid said McCrary was suspected of soliciting customers for money inside the store, police said. She was arrested and
later taken to Grady Hospital for treatment. DeKalb Police spokeswoman Shiera Campbell said Larsheid’s supervisors had conducted an initial investigation and cleared the officer after reviewing his narrative in a “Use of Force” incident report he filed after the incident. Internal Affairs is now reviewing the video to determine if the incident is consistent with the narrative, policy and the law, Campbell said.
“The investigation will cover all aspects of the Use of Force incident as well as the original investigation conducted by the officer’s immediate supervisors,” the Police Department said in a statement. The DeKalb Pastors Alliance, headed by Pastor Steven Dial, Sr., of Rainbow Park Baptist Church in Decatur, said the Alliance is mobilizing to speak out against “this travesty.”
“The Alliance will demand swift action be taken to ensure Officer Larscheid understands this type of action will not be tolerated in DeKalb County,” said Pastor Dial. “No man should be whipping a woman like that. We are demanding they (the police) have diversity training.” Dial called the video “very alarming,” adding the public would not have known what happened had the video not gone viral. John Evans, who heads Operation LEAD, called for the termination of the officer. Evans joined members of the SCLC for a protest, calling for justice, in front of the store on July 13. “America is seeing how this woman was beaten. He just needs to be fired immediately. An investigation can be done later,” said Evans. DeKalb Attorney Mawuli Davis, who has handled a number of civil rights and police brutality cases, said the community should be outraged over the lack of an initial investigation. “They (police investigators) should have requested the store’s video and reviewed it, rather than have just taken the word of the officer. Where are the checks and balances? The officer
See Probe, page 2
Wednesday WindDown Moves East
Cleanup moves forward at Brannon Hill condo eyesore
Demolition crews began tearing down 28 of approximately 108 vacated units at the Brannon Hill condominium complex at 1000 Old Hampton Drive in Clarkston on July 13. DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond and county officials held a news conference at the site to reiterate their promise to clean up the dilapidated complex, which has stood as an eyesore for over 10 years. The condos, where several fires have taken place over the years, had long been a haven for crime and homeless people living among tenants. It has been dubbed “the worst community in America.” As a result of absentee landlords, the county has spent months taking legal action in order to clean up the property. On Nov. 18, 2016, DeKalb County obtained a court order allowing nuisance abatement in Brannon Hill at four buildings totaling 68 units. Phase I of the cleanup includes removing debris from two buildings (28 units). Phase II will occur later in 2017, when DeKalb will
See Brannon Hill page 2
T
Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/ OCG News
he Lithonia Amphitheater was filled with hundreds of party goers who attended the WindDown Wednesday “Party in the Park,” which was hosted by DJ Mix Master Mitch on July 12. The crowd danced to Old School hits and the sounds of Kasper and the 911 Band. The annual mid-week party came to the East for the first time ever because of innovation under way at Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta. Mix Master Mitch says the Lithonia Amphitheater, 2515 Park Drive, will host WindDown Wednesday through Sept. 27. Guests may bring their own food, coolers, lawn chairs and blankets. Vendors also will be on site. Tickets ($5 for general admission and $15 VIP) are available on eventbrite.com at the gate on concert days. Season passes are also available. For more information, visit www.wdepartyinthepark.com or call 404-852-9086.
PAGE 2 •JULY 15, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM Probe continued from page 1 should be terminated and his supervisors should be disciplined,” Davis said. “From what I can tell from watching the video, he (Larsheid) could have just handcuffed and arrested her. He is physically bigger than she is.” According to the Department, Larscheid responded to a call that a woman was soliciting inside the convenience store on Sunday, June 4, around 3 p.m. When Larscheid arrived on the scene, he said McCrary told him “the girl you lookin for is over there.” Larscheid said as he tried to speak with someone behind the store’s counter, McCrary tried to leave. He said he commanded her to halt and she told him she was a Federal Agent, gave a “random badge number” and tried to walk past him. Larscheid said he warned McCrary that she could be charged with impersonating an officer. He said she tried to grab his badge. McCrary ended up on the floor. The video shows Larscheid holding her down and repeatedly beating her with a baton. Larscheid has been with the DeKalb County Police Department for five years. Campbell said she did not readily have information available concerning any Use of Force incidents reports involving Larscheid. The DeKalb NAACP issued a statement calling for a thorough investigation. The civil rights organization’s branch president Teresa Hardy said: “The DeKalb NAACP is deeply concerned about the troubling video released on July 10 of the incident that occurred on June 4 showing a DeKalb police officer violently beating a woman with his baton whom he was trying to restrain and arrest. The fact that the police department has reopened its investigation of the incident in light of a bystander’s video becoming public is a welcomed development. Although the previous internal investigation had cleared the officer of any wrongdoing based on the information he provided in his “use of force” report of the incident, the DeKalb NAACP is extremely concerned about the following: 1. The lack of a video recording from the officer’s video camera. 2. Whether the details in the offer’s report are supported by the video evidence. 3. Whether DeKalb police policy permits such a response by the police in such situations. 4. Whether the initial allegations against the victim warranted a police response that precipitated the escalation of the incident. View the video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0g5bpG84Qs
Brannon Hill continued from page 1 identify and award a contract to demolish and remove debris from the other two buildings (40 units). Already, approximately 122 units at the complex have been demolished. Officials say 186 units are still inhabited. “This is a step in the right direction,” said Thurmond. “It does not resolve the problem. It is a journey, not an event. My goal is to call a summit of agencies—public and private—who are working to support and assist these families as well as other immigrant families similarly situated in DeKalb.” Thurmond said the demolition was needed to protect residents’ health and safety. “This is not about demolition. It is about human life. And we have to value all life, all families, if we’re going to have a positive quality of life in DeKalb,” Thurmond said. The cleanup at Brannon Hill utilizes approximately $400,000 in federal Community Development Block Grant funds. On July 11, DeKalb County Board of Commissioners approved CEO Thurmond’s midyear budget, which included $1.2 million to reduce blight in DeKalb. “We redirected existing funds to fight blight,” said CEO Thurmond. “The passage of the midyear budget marks the first time in DeKalb that county funds will be used to demolish houses.” Highlights of county funds directed at blight reduction include: •$300,000 to board and abate vacant buildings, which have become eyesores in the community. •$160,000 to demolish 10 to 12 blighted houses; the first time county funds have been used for this purpose. •$70,000 for the Solicitor General’s office to hire additional staff to handle blight prosecution and for training on enforcement efforts.
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Meet the City Hall Officials
EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com
JULY 15,2017 • PAGE 3
GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com
On Common Ground News is published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers. No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate. On Common Ground News
P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058 (678) 526-1910 News 24/7 @ www.ocgnews.com
Pictured L-R from back row: Mayor Jason Lary; Wayne Wright, project manager; interim City Manager Michael Harris; Nicole Dozier, Community Development Director; Adrion Bell, Communications Director; Assistant City Manager Plez Joyner; Audrey Mays, Accounts Manager; Brenda James, interim City Clerk; and Lawfawnya Hardy, receptionist. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCGNews
Stonecrest marks milestone, moves into new City Hall The newly-formed City of Stonecrest marked a milestone on Monday. Officials opened its City Hall in a temporary suite at the Strayer University building, located at 3120 Stonecrest Center. The temporary City Hall will be located on the first floor of the building adjacent to the where the new City Hall will be built out in a 12,500-square-foot space. The city is accepting applications for business licenses and renewals, alcohol permits, and will soon offer code enforcement, planning and zoning, parks and recreation, and economic development. “It’s been four years coming and now we are glad to have a long-term, solid home,” Lary said. City Hall’s hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 pm. The number for City Hall is 770-224-0200 and the city’s new web site is: www. stonecrestga.gov.
School-to-Prison Pipeline
Justice Michael Boggs to address Rotary Club of Conyers Georgia Supreme Court Justice Michael P. Boggs will be the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Conyers luncheon on Thursday, July 20, at Conyers First United Methodist Church, 921 North Main St. N.W. Justice Boggs will discuss Georgia criminal justice reform and the public schools. Justice Boggs has been co-chair of the Criminal Justice Reform Council since 2013 by appointment of Gov. Nathan Deal. Prior to that, he served as a member of the initial Criminal Justice Reform Council for Georgians 2011-2012 as an appointee of the Chief Justice. He is a powerful speaker on the topic of the Michael Boggs “School-To-Prison Pipeline.” The Rotary Club of Conyers luncheon is open to the public. A buffet lunch will begin promptly at 11:45 a.m. for a fee of $15 for non-members. Reservations for lunch are required by Monday, July 17. For more information or to make reservations, please call 770-278-7903.
DeKalb offering residents Amnesty Day, free disposal at landfill DeKalb County Sanitation Division will host “Amnesty Day,” an opportunity for DeKalb County residents to dispose of items such as furniture and construction and demolition materials without charge. The free event will be held on Saturday, July 29, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., at the Seminole Road Landfill, 4203 Clevemont Road, Ellenwood. During “Amnesty Day,” a part of the Operation Clean Sweep initiative, special collection items such as tires, yard trimmings, bagged garbage and appliances can be disposed at the landfill. No hazardous materials will be accepted. The event is open to DeKalb County residents and proof of residency is required. “This event advances CEO Michael Thurmond’s efforts to address one of his most critical priorities of cleaning up the county,” said Sanitation Division Deputy Director Tracy Hutchinson. “Operation Clean Sweep is remediating blight through beautification and Amnesty Day is an opportunity for residents to help participate in keeping DeKalb County beautiful.” Operation Clean Sweep is a multi-departmental initiative focusing on litter removal, illegal dumping, mowing grass, and removing debris, trash and grass from streets, sidewalks, roadway drains and rights-of-way. Departments partnering in the initiative include Roads and Drainage, Beautification, Sanitation, Communications and Public Safety.
DeKalb to replace more than 4,000 sewer manholes
Diabetes support group to feature “REVERSED” reality show participants Rockdale Medical Center’s upcoming diabetes education and support group will feature guest speakers Lisa and Roger Campbell, participants on the new Discovery Life reality show, “REVERSED.” The meeting will be held ion July 25, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at Rockdale Medical Center, Classroom 2, located in the East Tower. The diabetes support group meets the fourth Tuesday of each month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. For more information or to speak with a Certified Diabetes Educator, please call 770-918-3410.
DeKalb County is replacing more than 4,000 vented sewer manholes. The new manholes are completely solid and will block rainwater, storm water inflow and debris from entering the sewer system. There are more than 65,000 manholes in the county and replacing the manhole covers will help to improve sewer capacity for future projects. In June, the county began replacing the manholes. The project should be completed by the end of the year, officials said. Preventing sewer overflows is a priority for the Department of Watershed Management (DWM) and the department encourages residents to help prevent sewer overflows by properly disposing of fats, oils and grease (FOG). FOG has been identified as the leading cause of over 60 percent of the county’s sewer overflows. DeKalb County residents and businesses can help by: • Never pouring fats, oils and grease down drains or flush in toilets. • Pouring cooled fats, oils and grease into a sealed container and placing it in the garbage. • Using a paper towel to clean up excess grease residue left on the inside of pots, pans, and utensils. Be sure to place greasy towels in the trash. • Placing all food scraps from plates, pots, pans, utensils and any cooking surfaces into the trash for disposal. Residents and businesses with garbage disposals should also place food scraps into the trash. To date, the county has removed more than 80 tons of sediment and debris from clogged sewer lines in a comprehensive effort to reduce sewer overflows and increase functional sewer capacity. Earlier this year, DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond introduced plans aimed at cleaning the sewer system. The project was approved by the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners and is anticipated to take two years to complete and is the first time in 50 years that DeKalb County will clean the sewer trunk lines. For more information, visit the DWM website at www.dekalbwatershed.com.
PAGE 4 •JULY 15, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
First 2017 West Nile virus case reported in DeKalb
The DeKalb County Board of Health has received its first report of a human case of West Nile virus infection in the county, officials said. The patient, a 72-year-old male who lives in Brookhaven, is currently hospitalized. “It is unfortunate that one of our residents has contracted West Nile virus. However, this serves as a constant reminder that everyone should be vigilant in taking the necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites, as they are carriers of the virus,” said S. Elizabeth Ford, DeKalb District Health Director. S. Elizabeth Ford The DeKalb County Board of Health is working to educate the public, including conducting door-to-door campaigns, so that individuals can help protect themselves, their homes and their communities by eliminating mosquito breeding sites. The Board of Health advises people to take the following precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes: • Reduce outdoor exposure at dawn and dusk, when the mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus are most active. • Use an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535. Apply according to label instructions. • Spray clothing with products containing permethrin. Also apply according to label instructions. • Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when outdoors, particularly at dawn and dusk and in areas with large numbers of mosquitoes. • Reduce mosquito breeding in your yard by eliminating standing water in gutters and items such as planters, toys, wheelbarrows and old tires. • Discourage mosquitoes from resting in your yard by trimming tall grass, weeds and vines. • Make sure window and door screens fit tightly to keep mosquitoes out of your home. To reduce the spread of West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases, the Board of Health provides an integrated mosquito control program. Program technicians routinely trap mosquitoes throughout the county, which are tested for viruses. Technicians also work with residents to reduce mosquito infestations including placing larvicide in sources of standing water, like storm drains. This keeps young mosquitoes from becoming flying biting adults. For more information about the West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses, contact the DeKalb County Board of Health’s Environmental Health division at 404-508-7900 or visit www.dekalbhealth.net/envhealth.
Adoma to host Stonecrest District 5 town hall Stonecrest City Councilwoman Diane Adoma, who represents District 5, will host a Town Hall to discuss “Building the Future with Technology” on Tuesday, July 18, 6 to 7 p.m., at the Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road. Adoma, along with a special guest, plans to discuss a Stonecrest technology village revitalization project that would result in the creation of high paying jobs within Stonecrest.
Sen. Tonya Anderson announces GDOT contract award for District 43
State Sen. Tonya Anderson (D – Lithonia) announced a Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) contract award for a project in DeKalb County. The award, worth $467,000, will address a bridge rehabilitation on I-20/SR 402. The anticipated completion date is February 28, 2018. The project was advertised in February, bids were received on March 17, and contracts were awarded on March 31. “I am excited to announce a GDOT project award for DeKalb County,” said Anderson, who represents the 43rd District, which includes portions of DeKalb, Newton and Rockdale counties. “The metro Atlanta area has Tonya Anderson recently faced some transportation challenges in recent months. But thankfully, GDOT is working tirelessly to make sure roads and bridges across the state are up to code and safe for drivers statewide who travel on them.” The public is urged to “know before you go.” For real-time information on active construction, incidents and more, call 511 or visit 511ga.org before you get into your car. Routine Maintenance Contracting opportunities are available. For information about contractor qualification and the bidding process for Routine Maintenance projects, visit www.GAroads.org.
Rockdale sets FAFSA, student loan workshop for high school students Rockdale County will host a workshop for parents and high school students, “How to Meet Your High School Guidance Counselor,” on Saturday, July 29, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at (e)station, 909 Commercial St., Conyers. At the free workshop, a professional guidance counselor with knowledge of the public education system will help lead parents and students in learning information about FAFSA(Free Application for Federal Student AID), how to navigate the student loan process, and the benefits of building a strong, consistent relationship with their high school guidance counselor. “Through this ‘How to Meet Your High School Guidance Counselor’ course, we hope to bridge the gap between the student and the counselor early on so they are preparing for their future from the start,” said Board of Commissioners Chairman Oz Nesbitt, Sr. “We want to make sure these students are equipped with the tools to get the financial assistance they need when planning for college.” The average cost of tuition and fees for the 2016-2017 school year is $33,480 for private schools, $9,650 for state residents at public colleges and $24,930 for out-of-state residents attending public universities, according to the College Board. With the price of attending a four-year public school rising 27 percent over the past five years and two out of three full-time students paying for college with the help of financial aid, organizers of the event say it is important for parents and students know where and how to navigate this process, Nesbitt said. Seating is limited at the “How to Meet Your High School Guidance Counselor” workshop and pre-registration is encouraged. To register, visit bit.ly/2rGztuj. For more information, contact Rockdale Communications Director George Lopez at 770-2787056.
Diane Adoma
DeKalb South Police Precinct to host “Movie With the Major” DeKalb County youths are invited to the South Police Precinct’s “Movie with the Major.” The movie, Spider Man: Homecoming (PG13) will be screened on Saturday, July 15, noon, at Satellite Cinemas, South DeKalb Mall, 2801 Candler Road, Suite 68, Decatur. Admission is free. Parents must accompany their child.
Workshop: “How to Win the Money Game” Financial advisor Stanley Atwater will present “How to Win the money Game” on Tuesday, July 18, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, 864 Green St., Conyers. Atwater, who has more than 30 years of experience, offers his expertise and insight to help improve your financial health. “How to Win the Money Game” will cover topics such as financial dependence to independence, debt management, taxes, life insurance, growing assets, and college savings. This program will be held in the lower level meeting room on the library. For more information, visit the Adult Services Department or call 770-388-5040, ext. 118. The event is free and open to the public for ages 18 and up. Rockdale to host free movie at Pine Log Park
Rockdale to host free movie at Pine Log Park Families are invited to enjoy snacks, pre-show and activities at Rockdale County’s Movie Under the Stars, which will be held on Saturday, July 22, 8 p.m., at Pine Log Park, 1451 Pine Log Road, Conyers. The movie, “Despicable Me 2” (PG), will be presented by the Rockdale County Parks and Recreation and Sunset Cinema. Admission is free.
Boyz to Men of Honor to host Fun Day Boyz to Men of Honor will have a Fun Day @ The Park on Saturday, July 22, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Pine Log Park, 1451 Pine Log Road, N.E., Conyers. Bring the kids to enjoy the bounce house and get free back-to-school supplies. There will be a 3-on-3 tournament. For more information, visit www. b2mh.org.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR CITY OF STONECREST The Mayor and City Council for the City of Stonecrest will hold public hearings on the following: Adoption of Procedures for Zoning Hearings Chapter 27- Zoning Ordinance Chapter 21- Sign Ordinance The Official Zoning Map of the City of Stonecrest The Comprehensive Plan Time & Location: The July 31, 2017 public hearing will be held at a Special Called Meeting of the City Council at 10:00am and the August 7, 2017 public hearing at the City Council Meeting at 10:00am. The location for both public hearings is the Stonecrest Library, 3120 Klondike Road, Lithonia, Georgia 30038.
Photo by Mackenzie N. Morgan
Over 100 attend information session for Georgia Tech’s tuition-free online logistics courses
More than 100 people attended an information session for the Logistics Education And Pathways (LEAP) program on July 10 at the Newton County Courthouse. Attendees learned about the opportunity to take tuition-free online courses available from Georgia Tech’s Supply Chain & Logistics Institute and the many job opportunities available in the logistics industry. The four online courses that make up the program consist of Supply Chain Management Principles, Warehousing Operations, Transportation Operations and Customer Service Operations. The pilot program, supported by donations from JPMorgan Chase and Schneider, is provided through partnership with Georgia Tech, the City of Covington, Newton County, Newton County Economic Development, Newton County Schools, and the Covington Newton County Chamber of Commerce. Covington Mayor Ronnie Johnston encouraged attendees to take advantage of the program, saying over 7,000 jobs will become available over the next six years averaging $65,000 a year with benefits. Johnston said that it is his hope to introduce citizens of Newton and Rockdale counties to new skill sets and prepare them for these positions as well as alleviate the town’s plight with poverty. “Poverty is a big deal and if you look right here at our community we have some serious issues with poverty,” said Johnston. “We’re trying to give everybody a door to go into and this program can change the trajectory of your entire life.” Carole Bennett, director of program development and marketing at Georgia Tech, said the online courses offer invaluable education. “What you learn in this program is not just what’s going on in a logistics job and how to do things, you will also be able to start questioning why you are doing things and the impact you will have in your role in the supply chain,” said Bennett. After completing each course, students will receive a Georgia Tech Professional Education Certificate. Tuition will be waived for the first 100 participants who enroll in up to four courses in the Georgia Tech LEAP program. The four online courses consist of Supply Chain Management Principles, Warehousing Operations, Transportation Operations, and Customer Service Operations. The Georgia Tech LEAP pilot program is designed to help high school students, entry-level job seekers, people changing careers, and veterans to compete for jobs and successful careers in supply chain management and logistics. To qualify, applicants must be residents from Newton, Rockdale, Walton, Jasper, DeKalb, or Morgan County. Applications for the pilot are currently being accepted. To apply, visit www.scl.gatech.edu/leap
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JULY 15, 2017 • PAGE 5
City of Decatur awarded $11.5 million loan for UMC Homeconservation project
The City of Decatur was awarded an $11,452,000 loan by the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority. The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) loan will finance the acquisition of 22.08 acres of land as part of the city’s United Methodist Children’s Home (UMCH) land purchase of 77 total acres. City officials say the project will permanently protect the land for the purpose of conservation and public recreation. The city will pay 1.70 percent interest on the 30-year loan. The loan will finance an eligible conservation project, which qualifies for a reduced interest rate. “GEFA’s loan programs assist local governments with improving their
environmental infrastructure. As part of the Clean Water program, cities and counties can also receive affordable financing for land conservation projects,” said GEFA Executive Director Kevin Clark. “I’d like to express appreciation to Gov. Deal, U.S. Sens. Johnny Isakson and David Perdue, U.S. Reps. John Lewis and Hank Johnson, State Sen. Elena Parent, and State Reps. Karla Drenner, Howard Mosby, Mary Margaret Oliver, and Renitta Shannon for their support. The state’s commitment to helping cities and counties finance infrastructure development is a main contributor to GEFA’s success,” said GEFA Executive Director Kevin Clark. The Decatur City Commission approved the $40 million purchase of the UMC campus at its April 17, 2017 meeting. The sale terms include preservation of the historic Moore Chapel and the gravesite of UMCH’s founder Rev. Dr. Jesse Boring.
Conyers Police capture serial commercial burglary suspect
Conyers’ Police have captured fugitive Jarvas “Big Show” McElroy of Covington, who was wanted for a spree of commercial burglaries in metro Atlanta. The 34-year-old “Big Show,” so nicknamed because of his 6’9” stature, had eluded law enforcement officials until his encounter with Conyers Police on July 7. Sgt. Travis Smith was patrolling high-risk burglary locations when he saw a man in dark clothing duck behind the 76 Foodmart at 1256 Green Street. The man ran into the woods and Sgt. Smith called for additional units to establish a perimeter. An intensive search began at 4 a.m. but was called off about two hours later. Police found two gloves and a handgun that the suspect had dropped while fleeing. As Sgt. Smith and Detective Marshall Thompson conducted a final sweep of the area, they heard a rustle behind the 76 Station and located McElroy hiding in the thick brush. He was arrested without further incident. McElroy had cut the power to the building and had a crowbar, sledgehammer and bolt cutters in a vehicle parked in the 76 Foodmart lot. The vehicle had been stolen out of DeKalb County during a previous burglary. McElroy is suspected of committing burglaries of convenience stores, liquor stores, pawn shops, and ATM machines throughout at least six metro-Atlanta jurisdictions. He was indicted in Rockdale County Superior Court on multiple charges while he was on the run early this year. McElroy is facing charges for two Best Buy burglaries, Sound Pro and Sigman Bottle Shop burglaries, and the attempted theft of a Community and Southern ATM machine in 2016 in Rockdale. McElroy’s 26-year-old co-conspirator, David John Olson, of Stone Mountain has entered a guilty plea for his crimes and has been sentenced to 20 years, eight of which to serve in prison.
DeKalb Sheriff’s deputies arrest second suspect in Decatur murder, armed robbery
The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Fugitive Unit has arrested 19-year-old Darnell Thompson of Decatur, considered a second suspect in the June 9 shooting death of Darin Thurman. Deputies arrested 19-year-old Iran King of Decatur on July 3. According to warrants issued, Thurman was shot several times as he sat in the driver’s seat of a vehicle on Glenwood Road in Decatur. Witnesses say King knocked on the vehicle window, pointed a gun at the victim, spoke to him and opened fire. Another witness observed the suspect removing items from the vic- Darnell Thompson Iran King tim’s vehicle after the shooting stopped. Warrants allege that a handgun, wallet, cell phone and cash were taken from the victim’s car. Thompson was subsequently identified as a possible accomplice in the robbery and shooting, and warrants were issued for his arrest. Thompson is charged with felony murder and felony armed robbery. He was booked into the DeKalb County Jail.
Decatur father indicted for drowning son in bathtub
A DeKalb County Grand Jury has indicted a Decatur man in connection with the drowning death of his recently adopted 10-year-old son. Jurors returned a seven-count indictment on Tuesday against 43-year-old Leon Harvey Williams on charges of malice murder, felony murder, cruelty to children in the first degree (three counts), aggravated assault-family violence, and aggravated battery-family violence for the death of Kentae Williams. The victim died on April 28, 2017 following a series of alleged incidents involving the defendant. According to the investigation, neighbors witnessed Williams yelling at and Leon Williams threatening the child while dragging the victim by his neck into their Glen Hollow Drive apartment unit. The victim was then beaten with a belt, and forced into the bathtub where hot water was poured over his feet, causing second-degree burns. The child’s head was then submerged under water twice after he complained about the water temperature. After losing consciousness, emergency crews were called and the child was rushed to the hospital where he later died. Williams was arrested the following day. He remains jailed without bond. A trial date has not yet been determined.
Organizers preparing for upcoming 20th Anniversary Lithonia Community Day Free food, hair cuts, health screenings and school supplies will be provided at the Lithonia Community Day set for Saturday, July 22, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Lithonia City Park & Amphitheater, 2515 Park Drive, Lithonia. Organizers are seeking school supply donations, which can be dropped off at Lithonia City Hall, 5920 Main Street in downtown Lithonia or the following DeKalb County public libraries: Lithonia, Stonecrest, Salem-Panola, Flat Shoals, Wesley Chapel, Tucker, and Toco Hill. Tax deductible financial contributions for the event can be made at Lithonia City Hall or online at www.BCOP.org. Checks should be made payable to City of Lithonia with “School Supplies” in the memo section. This year’s event will also include free HIV testing and information on health mental health, domestic violence, sex trafficking, heart disease, dental hygiene, high blood pressure and cancer. Mayor Deborah A. Jackson said this year marks the 20th anniversary of Lithonia Community Day initiated by Alstock Lodge #502. She said the organizers’ goals are to provide school supplies for as many students as possible and provide information to address the health issues within the community. The City of Lithonia and Alstock Lodge #502 are partnering with the Beverly Cunningham Outreach Program on the event. Other sponsors include DeKalb County Public Library; Full Body Rejuvenation Center; Saving Our Children and Families Inc.; Sam’s Club; Walmart; DeKalb Library Foundation; DeKalb County Clerk of Superior Court; AID Atlanta; State Farm; Wake Up, Rise Up, Live Up; and Georgia Piedmont Technical College. Roderick Cunningham of the Beverly Cunningham Outreach Program said his organization is looking forward to partnering with the Lithonia Community Day on its 20th anniversary. “We are very pleased with the support we are receiving from a wide range of community partners to make Lithonia Community Day a great event for the community,” said Cunningham.
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Rockdale’s Constitutional Corner
What can you do to make your emissions test a smooth process?
W
hile most car owners in Rockdale make sure their insurance is current when it’s time to renew their registration, some often forget to get their emissions test done before they arrive at the Tax Office to renew. With a little planning, residents can make the renewal process a smooth as possible. Emissions tests are required every year in most counties in metro Atlanta, including Rockdale, and are valid for one year or one renewal. However, if you recently purchased a vehicle, you may not need to get one when it’s time to re-
Tisa Smart Washington Rockdale Tax Commissioner new. Vehicles that are 3 model years old (for 2017 renewals,
2017, 2016 and 2015 models), do not require testing. Also, if you purchased a vehicle and an emissions test was performed prior to you owning it, you can use the test in the system as long as it has not expired. For owners planning on being out of town or for vehicles that will be out of the area when it’s time to renew, emissions tests can be completed up to a year in advance. This can be especially helpful for individuals spending a considerable amount of time outside of the area or parents with college students taking the vehicle to school with them. Remember, emissions tests are good for
one year or one renewal; once the test has been used to renew, it is no longer valid. If your vehicle fails an emissions test, my office can issue a one-time 30-day extension to allow time to address the problem. Owners with vehicles on the birthday tax system must pay the taxes in order to receive the extension. For owners who have already paid the taxes up front and pay $20 to renew their registration each year, there is no fee for the extension. In addition to the 30-day extension, there are waivers and exemptions available to owners as well. Seniors may
qualify for a Senior Exemption; individuals working or going to school in another state may be eligible for an Out-of-Area Waiver; or individuals who own vehicles that will not pass a test after emissions-related repairs have been completed may receive a Repair Waiver. Visit www.cleanairforce.com for more information on extensions, waivers and exemptions. A representative from Georgia’s Clean Air Force is in our office every Wednesday and Friday. If you have any questions about emissions tests, please stop by and we’d be happy to help you.
Rockdale to hold public meeting to discuss youth baseball
Rockdale is celebrating National Parks and Recreation Month at Johnson Park
Rockdale County Parks and Recreation will hold a public meeting to discuss information about the county’s plan to oversee the local baseball program internally. The Parks and Recreation Division is no longer affiliated with the Rockdale Youth Baseball Association and will meet on July 19, 6 p.m., at the J.P. Carr Community Room, 981 Taylor St., Conyers, to inform citizens about how the county will move forward with the sport. For more information, contact Parks and Recreation Deputy Director Jason Redmond at 770-2787257.
Rockdale County’s Johnson Park Recreation Center, 1781 Ebenezer Road, S.W., Conyers will be open free of charge to the public on July 15, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in honor of National Parks and Recreation Month.
RCCA to give away free food at mobile pantry The Resource Center for Community Action (RCCA) is hosting a mobile food pantry on Thursday, July 27, noon to 4 p.m., at the Cooperative Extension Building, 1400 Parker Road, Conyers. The food is free to anyone while supplies last. Just drive up in your vehicle and volunteers will provide you a box or bag of food. For more information, call 678-288-5433, ext. 101.
Here’s a list of the activities planned for the day: 9:15 a.m.–10:00 a.m. Aqua Zumba (Swimming Pool) 9:15 a.m.–10:45 a.m. Latin Fever(Aerobics Room) 9:15 a.m. –11:00 p.m. Three Point Shooting Contest (Gymnasium) Hot Shot Contest (Gymnasium) 10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. Zumba(Large Meeting Room) 10:00 a.m. –1:00 p.m. Arts and Crafts (Arts and Crafts Room) 11:00 a.m. –11:45 a.m. Zumba Toning (Gymnasium) 11:00 a.m. –12:00 p.m. Piano & Keyboarding (Aerobics Room) 11:30 a.m. –12:30 p.m. Korean Karate (Gymnasium) 12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m.Hydro Flex (Swimming Pool) 1:00 p.m. –2:00 p.m. Healthy Eating information and cooking demonstrations by UGA Extension Kids can enjoy the bounce house all day. Cornhole also will be available all day.
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