(GA. NEWS NETWORK)
*A man from Savannah pleaded guilty to kidnapping and first-degree assault and battery for an attack on a hospital employee in May 2023. 40 Marc Kaikala is sentenced to 12 years in prison for the incident at Coastal Carolina Hospital in Hardeeville. ABC News 4 reports that he stole scissors and attacked a nurse, dragging her towards an exit with the scissors against her neck. Kaikala receiving 12 years for kidnapping and 10 years for assault and battery.
*The city of Atlanta cleared the Old Wheat Street encampment, providing housing for many of the homeless residents. Advocates helped around 30 unhoused people transition into a supportive housing program and apartment complex southwest of downtown. The AJC reports that while the closure of the camp is a significant step, advocates emphasize the need for continued support and housing solutions for the homeless population in Atlanta.
*Authorities have arrested two teenagers in connection with extensive vandalism and burglary at Piney Woods Baptist Church in Buchanan. Authorities say that the Fellowship Hall was heavily damaged and defaced with gang-related graffiti. Atlanta News First reports that the suspects were identified as 17-year-old Darren Stanley and a 16-year-old whose name was not released, face charges including burglary, vandalism, and participation in gang-related activity.