Author: On Common Ground News

Looking for a safe alternative for the kids to enjoy their costumes and treats on Oct. 31? Check out the trunk or treat events from our community partners in DeKalb, Rockdale and Gwinnett counties.  The events listed below are free and some include additional activities such as the haunted house that will be held at the Rockdale  County Sheriff’s Office parking lot. Looking for a safe alternative for the kids to enjoy their costumes and treats on Oct. 31? Check out the trunk or treat events from our community partners in DeKalb, Rockdale and Gwinnett counties.  The events listed below are…

ROCKDALE COUNTY, GA– Rockdale County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has successfully installed its weather siren system, marking a significant step in public safety and emergency preparedness.  After being on hold for three years, the project is now completed and fully functional. The automated system, which is directly linked to the National Weather Service, allows for real-time activation during tornado warnings. The system delivers faster, more consistent alerts to residents who are outdoors, urging immediate action during life-threatening weather emergencies. Monthly siren tests will occur on every first Saturday at 1 p.m., unless severe weather is present. There are nine operational…

By State Representative Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain) Electricity isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Yet, for too many Georgians, what should be a straightforward utility bill has become a source of confusion and frustration. When I began examining my own Georgia Power bills, I discovered troubling inconsistencies between the fixed “budget billing” amount and the actual cost of electricity I used. That prompted me to call for an independent, third-party investigation into Georgia Power’s budget billing program, an issue now under formal review by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC). Recently, I was asked by a state regulator to share…

DECATUR, GA– As a result of infrastructure upgrades being completed on Columbia Woods Drive and Toney Drive, road closures will be extended through Dec. 10. Detour signage will be installed to direct traffic around the affected areas. These dates are subject to change based on weather conditions. Road closure and detour signs will be placed during the road closure to advise motorists of construction work in the area and of local traffic restrictions. Normal construction hours will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding major holidays. An increase in construction-related noise and traffic during work hours should be expected. …

DECATUR, GA– The DeKalb County Tax Commissioner’s office has relaunched its redesigned website to enhance and improve online experiences for over half a million users each year. With a fresh new look and feel, the site, relaunched in October,   is better organized, easier to navigate, and user-friendly, Tax Commissioner Irvin Johnson said. “As we continue to focus on delivering quality customer service, I encourage taxpayers to explore the redesigned website at DeKalbTax.org,” said Johnson. “The updated site serves to help taxpayers find answers quickly, efficiently and accurately before visiting the office. It’s a great tool to learn about the tax office and the…

 LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – A Norcross man will serve 25 years in prison for molesting a 9-year-old girl. A Gwinnett County jury found Feliciano Albarran Real, 61, guilty of aggravated child molestation for the January 2021 attack. He was sentenced to life with 25 years to serve in prison. Real also must register for life as a child sex offender. “This is despicable behavior, and we are grateful that the jury found this defendant guilty,” District Attorney Patsy Austin-Gatson said. “We pray that this victim and her family find justice and solace in this outcome, as we continue to work with them…

Updated: Oct. 29, 2025 And Updated: Oct. 30, 2025

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – Two brothers were convicted murdering a Gainesville man after a verbal altercation inside a nightclub and have been sentenced to life in prison plus five years. Deavian Jasiri-Teeir Netters, 25, was convicted last Friday(Oct. 24) of malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony for the April 2021 shooting death of 37-year-old Shaquon Anthony McKensey. Julian Patrick Netters, Jr., 24, Deavian’s brother, was found guilty on felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony in connection with the shooting.  “We hope that…

DEKALB COUNTY, GA— DeKalb County Police continue to search for the best and brightest officers at a one-stop hiring event. The department is hosting a job hiring event on Nov. 1, from 8 a.m. to noon, at the Tobie Grant Recreation Center, 593 Parkdale Road, Scottdale.  Job candidates will start by running the physical agility test. They’ll want a change of clothes, because if they’re successful in the physical test, they’ll sit down for interviews and psychological evaluation. New recruits can earn a starting salary up to $64,050 with a $3,000 signing bonus. Sworn officers can earn up to $73,500 with a…