Family and friends of a Lavonia minister gunned down Tuesday by an undercover police officer continue to look for answers about how he died.
Stephens County Sheriff Randy Shirley said Jonathan Ayers, 29, was not the target of their sting operation and that authorities were looking for a woman they say Ayers dropped off minutes before the shooting. That woman, whose name has not been released, had been charged with cocaine possession and distribution, he said.
Ayers’ family maintains he was not involved in illegal drug activity.
“He is one of the Godliest men I’ve ever known,” his brother-in-law Matt Carpenter told AccessNorthGa.com. “We’re all shocked and absolutely do not believe he was involved in anything illicit or illegal there.”
Carpenter also told AccessNorthGa.com that the family was first informed Ayers died in a traffic accident, and then that he had been shot. Hours later, they learned he died in an officer-involved shooting.
Shirley said Wednesday that Ayers dropped off the sting suspect in downtown Toccoa around 2:30 p.m. and that two agents from the joint task force -- composed of officers from Stephens, Habersham and Rabun counties -- followed the pastor and attempted to question him.
WNEG-TV has surveillance video showing Ayers casually entering a Shell convenience store in Toccoa around 2:30 p.m.
According to that video, a black SUV carrying undercover officers pulls into the parking lot after Ayers left the store.
The pastor tried to avoid them, Shirley said Wednesday, striking one of the agents after putting his car in reverse.
“They yelled, ‘Police. Stop,’” Shirley said.
Witnesses to the incident also said the officers identified themselves, said Georgia Bureau of Investigation spokesman John Bankhead.
Shirley said Wednesday that Ayers maneuvered his car towards another agent in a “threatening manner.” However, that is unclear from the video.
Shirley first said that one shot was fired by one of the three agents on the scene, striking the pastor in the upper torso. WNEG-TV reports that Shirley said the agent fired two shots into the car.
Ayers drove off before losing control of the vehicle a block away, striking a telephone pole, Shirley said.
Ayers was pastor of Shoal Creek Baptist Church in Lavonia. On his blog, he wrote, “I have three loves in my life: Jesus Christ, my wife Abby, and the Church.”
The couple was expecting their first child.
Shirley would not reveal the identity of the woman arrested in the sting. The agent struck by the pastor’s vehicle was treated and released from a local hospital, Shirley said.
“Jonathan would have wanted to witness to the police officers involved in the shooting,” his family said in a statement.
The GBI is investigating the shooting. The task force agents involved have been placed on administrative leave with pay, Shirley said.
Source
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Thursday, October 15, 2009
No easy fix for those dealing with Georgia pet overpopulation
Litter by litter, more than 300 puppies and kittens streamed into Madison Oglethorpe Animal Shelter this summer. It should have been cute, but it was heartbreaking and frustrating for shelter Director Susan Fornash.
The shelter provides low-cost spaying and neutering, but too many people don't take advantage of the service - even when they've seen the consequences, Fornash said.
"Unfortunately, I don't think they even think about it," she said. "They bring us their puppies, and they bring us their kittens, but they don't bring us mama to get her fixed."
The shelter has offered low-cost spaying and neutering for more than five years.
Visiting veterinarians have performed 2,500 sterilizations since January, and the shelter's board and Fornash plan to expand the service as soon as they can raise the money for a second operating table.
However, this year's 2,500 surgeries barely will make a dent in Madison and Oglethorpe counties' overpopulation problem.
The shelter, which is built to hold 130 dogs at a time, took in almost 600 in June and July alone. The shelter took in 3,000 pets in 2008.
"All you have to do is look at the numbers of animals we have surrendered to us; it's obvious that people aren't spaying and neutering like they should," Fornash said.
Pet owners in Georgia have more access to affordable spaying and neutering than they used to, but many still don't want to fix their pets or just don't care, said Susan Thompson, a co-founder of Pet Mechanics - a low-cost spay and neuter nonprofit that serves Elbert, Jackson, Stephens and Whitfield counties.
Thompson and veterinarian Amber Polvere launched a mobile spaying and neutering clinic in 2005, bringing low-cost sterilization to every corner of rural Northeast Georgia in a customized RV. Over the past five years, similar programs have started up, and they have moved their program into four stationary clinics, Thompson said.
People must begin to understand how many dogs are euthanized because of overpopulation, and that while their dog is cute, it will be hard to find homes for all of its puppies, Thompson said.
"I think we're definitely at the stage where we just need to stress education," she said. "They just have no idea how many animals have to be euthanized."
Other areas of the country, where altering pets is an almost compulsory part of ownership, don't have nearly the overpopulation problem Georgia does or the euthanasia rates, she said.
Adoptable pets are in demand in Northeastern states because people spay and neuter. Local animal advocacy groups routinely transport dozens of Georgia shelter dogs to foster homes in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey.
MOMS Rescue, of out New Jersey, last week led a "Georgia Puppy Caravan," loading dozens of Atlanta-area shelter dogs in danger of being put to sleep into almost 100 vans and taking them up North, according to www.georgiapuppycaravan.org.
"We can send 25 dogs," Thompson said. "They can get there on Friday, and half of them can be adopted out on Saturday. And it's just random puppies. It's not like we're sending them purebreds or anything."
Adopting a stray from Georgia has almost become a status symbol for Northeastern animal advocates, Thompson said.
"We don't advertise that the dogs are from Georgia," said Marguerite Pearson, spokeswoman for the Animal Protective Foundation outside of Schenectady, N.Y. "But when we do tell them where the dog came from, they think it's pretty cool. ... It's almost like by adopting this Georgia shelter dog who could have otherwise been euthanized, they're doing something extra to help."
Georgia has a reputation for pet overpopulation and euthanasia, said Michelle Humphries, executive director of the Georgia Humane Society.
A lot of people have the attitude that a dog's life isn't worth much, she said. That's not going to change quickly. Stricter spay and neuter laws may be the only way to get people to make the effort to have their dogs neutered.
The only state law requiring spaying or neutering applies to strays adopted through shelters or rescue groups, she said.
Some states, counties and cities charge pet owners hefty fees if they do not have their dogs and cats fixed, Thomas said.
"I compare it to seat belts," Humphries said. "Drivers knew that seat belts could keep them from being killed in car accident. They knew they could keep them from being maimed in a car accident. But no one wore their seat belt until there was a law that said they had to."
Fornash agrees that education alone may not change attitudes, but knows that mandatory spaying and neutering would be unpopular and almost impossible to enforce in Madison and Oglethorpe counties, she said.
"They can't afford to have basic animal control, and if they can't afford to have animal control, how can they afford to enforce something like that?" she said.
Source
The shelter provides low-cost spaying and neutering, but too many people don't take advantage of the service - even when they've seen the consequences, Fornash said.
"Unfortunately, I don't think they even think about it," she said. "They bring us their puppies, and they bring us their kittens, but they don't bring us mama to get her fixed."
The shelter has offered low-cost spaying and neutering for more than five years.
Visiting veterinarians have performed 2,500 sterilizations since January, and the shelter's board and Fornash plan to expand the service as soon as they can raise the money for a second operating table.
However, this year's 2,500 surgeries barely will make a dent in Madison and Oglethorpe counties' overpopulation problem.
The shelter, which is built to hold 130 dogs at a time, took in almost 600 in June and July alone. The shelter took in 3,000 pets in 2008.
"All you have to do is look at the numbers of animals we have surrendered to us; it's obvious that people aren't spaying and neutering like they should," Fornash said.
Pet owners in Georgia have more access to affordable spaying and neutering than they used to, but many still don't want to fix their pets or just don't care, said Susan Thompson, a co-founder of Pet Mechanics - a low-cost spay and neuter nonprofit that serves Elbert, Jackson, Stephens and Whitfield counties.
Thompson and veterinarian Amber Polvere launched a mobile spaying and neutering clinic in 2005, bringing low-cost sterilization to every corner of rural Northeast Georgia in a customized RV. Over the past five years, similar programs have started up, and they have moved their program into four stationary clinics, Thompson said.
People must begin to understand how many dogs are euthanized because of overpopulation, and that while their dog is cute, it will be hard to find homes for all of its puppies, Thompson said.
"I think we're definitely at the stage where we just need to stress education," she said. "They just have no idea how many animals have to be euthanized."
Other areas of the country, where altering pets is an almost compulsory part of ownership, don't have nearly the overpopulation problem Georgia does or the euthanasia rates, she said.
Adoptable pets are in demand in Northeastern states because people spay and neuter. Local animal advocacy groups routinely transport dozens of Georgia shelter dogs to foster homes in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey.
MOMS Rescue, of out New Jersey, last week led a "Georgia Puppy Caravan," loading dozens of Atlanta-area shelter dogs in danger of being put to sleep into almost 100 vans and taking them up North, according to www.georgiapuppycaravan.org.
"We can send 25 dogs," Thompson said. "They can get there on Friday, and half of them can be adopted out on Saturday. And it's just random puppies. It's not like we're sending them purebreds or anything."
Adopting a stray from Georgia has almost become a status symbol for Northeastern animal advocates, Thompson said.
"We don't advertise that the dogs are from Georgia," said Marguerite Pearson, spokeswoman for the Animal Protective Foundation outside of Schenectady, N.Y. "But when we do tell them where the dog came from, they think it's pretty cool. ... It's almost like by adopting this Georgia shelter dog who could have otherwise been euthanized, they're doing something extra to help."
Georgia has a reputation for pet overpopulation and euthanasia, said Michelle Humphries, executive director of the Georgia Humane Society.
A lot of people have the attitude that a dog's life isn't worth much, she said. That's not going to change quickly. Stricter spay and neuter laws may be the only way to get people to make the effort to have their dogs neutered.
The only state law requiring spaying or neutering applies to strays adopted through shelters or rescue groups, she said.
Some states, counties and cities charge pet owners hefty fees if they do not have their dogs and cats fixed, Thomas said.
"I compare it to seat belts," Humphries said. "Drivers knew that seat belts could keep them from being killed in car accident. They knew they could keep them from being maimed in a car accident. But no one wore their seat belt until there was a law that said they had to."
Fornash agrees that education alone may not change attitudes, but knows that mandatory spaying and neutering would be unpopular and almost impossible to enforce in Madison and Oglethorpe counties, she said.
"They can't afford to have basic animal control, and if they can't afford to have animal control, how can they afford to enforce something like that?" she said.
Source
Monday, September 28, 2009
No Car Insurance= Serious Consequences
Today's tough economic climate has people looking for ways to cut their budgets but car insurance shouldn't be on that list.
Jennerette resident Georgia Taylor says "people without insurance are very, very dangerous," and Louisiana state police say they agree.
They're making sure everyone knows the law. You must at least have minimum liability insurance on your vehicle.
The purpose of the state trooper's safety check points is to make sure people have insurance. Troopers say its best if people keep their vehicle registration and insurance readily available and those who don't could face serious consequences.
"Your licenses plate could be take off that vehicle and turned into the department of motor vehicles or your vehicle could be towed away and you being issued a citation for that," Said Senior Trooper David Anderson.
If you get into an accident with someone uninsured you could end up paying to fix your own repairs and medical bills. However, insurance companies say there is a way to protect yourself.
Allstate Spokesperson Allison Hatcher said, "at a time like this you may want to consider asking about uninsured motorist protection. It can help protect you and pay for those expenses that you're legally entitled to recover."
Source
Jennerette resident Georgia Taylor says "people without insurance are very, very dangerous," and Louisiana state police say they agree.
They're making sure everyone knows the law. You must at least have minimum liability insurance on your vehicle.
The purpose of the state trooper's safety check points is to make sure people have insurance. Troopers say its best if people keep their vehicle registration and insurance readily available and those who don't could face serious consequences.
"Your licenses plate could be take off that vehicle and turned into the department of motor vehicles or your vehicle could be towed away and you being issued a citation for that," Said Senior Trooper David Anderson.
If you get into an accident with someone uninsured you could end up paying to fix your own repairs and medical bills. However, insurance companies say there is a way to protect yourself.
Allstate Spokesperson Allison Hatcher said, "at a time like this you may want to consider asking about uninsured motorist protection. It can help protect you and pay for those expenses that you're legally entitled to recover."
Source
Monday, August 24, 2009
Georgia Auto Accident Lawyer
Car Accidents
Georgia Auto Accident Lawyer
After any auto accident, an insurance company will probably come to you and offer to pay a few expenses. Many people trust their own insurance company to take care of them. This can be a big mistake.
Insurance companies make more when they give you less. An Atlanta car accident attorney, on the other hand, will have your best interests at heart and only get paid when you get the insurance settlement you truly deserve.
If you have been involved in a serious car crash that caused multiple injuries, you will need experienced representation from a reputable personal injury lawyer — Fred Burkey. The Burkey Law Firm strives to recover compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.
Taking on the Insurance Companies for You
With The Burkey Law Firm on your side, you have the strength and advocacy to help you maximize your financial recovery. In addition, if you have been seriously injured in a head-on collision involving a reckless, drunk, or otherwise negligent driver, you may be entitled to recover damages from his or her insurance company.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Automobile Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents on Georgia roads are possibly the most common and devastating form of negligent injury today, with literally thousands of families each year left facing an uncertain future of medical bills and long-term rehabilitation. Robin Frazer Clark, P.C. is deeply committed to the protection of Georgia clients seeking compensation when reckless, careless or negligent driving or conditions result in a tragic motor vehicle accident.
We understand the often deceptive practices an insurance carrier may employ solely to protect their financial bottom line, regardless of the real circumstances of the accident. Robin Frazer Clark, P.C. utilizes the latest technology and techniques for accident reconstruction, expert testimony, research and depositions in order to ensure that your rights are protected and that your case is decided according to the facts and the law. In addition, Robin Frazer Clark, P.C. maintains a broad network of legal, medical and financial experts who assist me in accident investigation, identification of all liable parties, injury assessment and arrangements for medical care with no out-of-pocket expenses.
As a personal injury trial lawyer and wrongful death attorney for the last twenty years, Robin Frazer Clark is experienced in the preparation and presentation of complex litigation before the Georgia State and Federal courts. Robin's reputation for aggressive negotiation and strong, winnable cases often results in an out-of-court settlement from insurers unwilling to face her in the courtroom. Robin, as a mother, wife and trial lawyer, understands the emotional, physical and financial stress you are experiencing after a negligent accident and works closely with you to recover maximum compensation for your injuries.
Source
We understand the often deceptive practices an insurance carrier may employ solely to protect their financial bottom line, regardless of the real circumstances of the accident. Robin Frazer Clark, P.C. utilizes the latest technology and techniques for accident reconstruction, expert testimony, research and depositions in order to ensure that your rights are protected and that your case is decided according to the facts and the law. In addition, Robin Frazer Clark, P.C. maintains a broad network of legal, medical and financial experts who assist me in accident investigation, identification of all liable parties, injury assessment and arrangements for medical care with no out-of-pocket expenses.
As a personal injury trial lawyer and wrongful death attorney for the last twenty years, Robin Frazer Clark is experienced in the preparation and presentation of complex litigation before the Georgia State and Federal courts. Robin's reputation for aggressive negotiation and strong, winnable cases often results in an out-of-court settlement from insurers unwilling to face her in the courtroom. Robin, as a mother, wife and trial lawyer, understands the emotional, physical and financial stress you are experiencing after a negligent accident and works closely with you to recover maximum compensation for your injuries.
Source
Monday, August 10, 2009
Medical Treatment After A Car Accident
If you have ever been injured a car accident, particularly in the metro Atlanta area, you know that you will either feel pain right away or several days later. Either way, you need to get medical treatment right away. Car accidents can cause a variety of injuries, including neck, back and shoulder injuries. During my law practice, I have known of people who have also injured their knees or banged their head on the windshield. These car accident injuries can be very serious and can lead to long term problems. When you are injured in a car accident, you need to think short and long term.
If you have been injured in a car accident, go to your primary care doctor and be examined. If you do not have a primary care doctor, go to the emergency room and get checked out. Any delays in treatment related to a car accident can cause problems if and when you file an injury claim with the other party's insurance company.
Chiropractors, Medical Doctors - who to go to? All medical providers play an important role in medical treatment after a car accident. There have increasingly been more multi-disciplinary facilities that have popped up that are more or less one stop shops where someone injured in a car accident can receive various types of treatment, including physical therapy, chiropractic and examination and treatment by a medical doctor.
Source
If you have been injured in a car accident, go to your primary care doctor and be examined. If you do not have a primary care doctor, go to the emergency room and get checked out. Any delays in treatment related to a car accident can cause problems if and when you file an injury claim with the other party's insurance company.
Chiropractors, Medical Doctors - who to go to? All medical providers play an important role in medical treatment after a car accident. There have increasingly been more multi-disciplinary facilities that have popped up that are more or less one stop shops where someone injured in a car accident can receive various types of treatment, including physical therapy, chiropractic and examination and treatment by a medical doctor.
Source
Monday, August 3, 2009
Atlanta Car Accident Attorney
If you have been in a car accident in Atlanta, there are a variety of problems that you have to deal with, ranging in everything from damage to your car to dealing with medical bills and permanent injuries. Car accidents in Atlanta tend to be pretty serious and frequent given the growing population in and around Atlanta and the rest of Georgia.
The decision on who to hire as your attorney to represent you in your Atlanta car wreck case should be made thought and deliberation. If you do not have any damages other than to your car, you can probably handle that on your own. It is when you have bodily injuries from your Atlanta car accident where you should consult with and hire an Attorney. When you consult with an Attorney to represent you in your Atlanta, Georgia car accident case, inquire as to whether or not the Attorney litigates and tries cases because it is likely that you will need to file a lawsuit to recover the true value of your damages given the stubborn nature of insurance companies.
Source
The decision on who to hire as your attorney to represent you in your Atlanta car wreck case should be made thought and deliberation. If you do not have any damages other than to your car, you can probably handle that on your own. It is when you have bodily injuries from your Atlanta car accident where you should consult with and hire an Attorney. When you consult with an Attorney to represent you in your Atlanta, Georgia car accident case, inquire as to whether or not the Attorney litigates and tries cases because it is likely that you will need to file a lawsuit to recover the true value of your damages given the stubborn nature of insurance companies.
Source
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