Augusta, GA

Almost 2 months in, how is sheriff’s homeless effort working?

Published

2 years ago

September 13, 2023

Almost 2 months in, how is sheriff’s homeless effort working?

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – We’re now almost two months into the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office’s port program which monitors homelessness on private businesses around Washington Road near I-20.

It’s now grown with 32 businesses signed up.

We’ve reported that some are pleased with the work, but others, like 2 Boys Pizza & Grill, are leaving completely.

Despite keeping a tab on those businesses that are joining in, the sheriff’s office says they haven’t been tracking any data.

They say this is due to how new the program is but they say they are working to expand where this effort is headed.

“It’s new. We’re excited about it, and we’re hoping that this is kind of a long-term program that helps us deal with a current problem,” said Capt. Scott Redmon with the sheriff’s office’s south precinct.

It’s a program the sheriff’s office and some businesses on Washington Road say is making a difference.

So then why isn’t there any data to back it up?

“The data that we’re seeing right now, is brand new data. Our intel unit will be working strongly to compile that data as time goes on,” said Redmon.

By data, we mean how many people have they arrested so far? How many have been referred to accountability court?

But they say an arrest should be a last resort.

“We’re kind of a mecca for the homeless. There are a lot of resources here. There’s a lot of outreach that’s going on here in Augusta. And the network out there gets that message out to the homeless people not only here but in other cities. Recently, we had people come as far away as four hours, and dropped off at the Salvation Army,” said Redmon.

Others, like Commissioner Sean Frantom, say this effort still needs more teeth.

Augusta’s current panhandling ordinance was put in place back in 2006 and only holds a tight grip on the downtown Broad Street district and a small district between Hopkins Street and Laney Walker Boulevard.

In exactly one week, the sheriff’s office, marshal’s office, homeless task force, and more are coming to the table to discuss a panhandling ordinance that mirrors Columbia County’s.

They’re hoping to expand where officers can enforce homeless management, but without arresting their way to a solution.

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Augusta, GA

Pine Hill Baptist Church reintroduces themselves to Augusta communities

Published

2 hours ago

May 18, 2025

Press Room

Pine Hill Baptist Church reintroduces themselves to Augusta communities

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Pine Hill Baptist Church has been in the Augusta community for 100 years, and on Saturday, they held a community bash reintroducing themselves.

Leaders say the goal was to have a good time and learn about some of the services the church offers.

They had food, music, bull riding and even face painting.

The organizers say they want to become part of your family.

“We’re Pine Hill Baptist Church here in Hephzibah. I think the church has been around here for 100 years. So it sounds kind of funny that we’re introducing ourselves to the community. But there are a lot of folks that’s moved into the community that’re not affiliated with us. And what we’re trying to do is just reach out to them,” said John Strickland, pastor, Pine Hill Baptist Church.

Traffic light falls on person riding a motorcycle

Strickland says the church isn’t just a building, it’s a place of community, and all walks of life are welcome.

“We’re here, not just in a way of a building, but we’re here with ministries and friendship, and we want to establish a relationship with their family,” said Strickland.

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Augusta, GA

Conrad B. Goodwin Obituary May 15, 2025 – Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors

Published

19 hours ago

May 17, 2025

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Conrad B. Goodwin Obituary May 15, 2025 – Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors

Augusta, GA – Conrad B. Goodwin, 88, entered into rest Thursday, May 15, 2025.

Conrad was born on a farm in Jefferson County, GA and attended public schools in Augusta, GA and was a graduate of Richmond Academy. He served four years in the United States Air Force. Conrad was employed at the US Postal Service and served in many positions and retired in 1992 as manager of the Forest Hills Branch. He was a member of Woodlawn United Methodist Church where he served as a greeter, usher, and administration trustee.

He loved traveling and visiting many states and points of interest along the way especially Tybee Island and the mountains. He enjoyed golf, gardening, being a handyman, volunteering, and an avid fan of Georgia Bulldog football. Conrad especially enjoyed family gatherings with his family and rocking on the porch.

Family members include his children: Bret Alan Goodwin, Troy Goodwin, and Tina Goodwin Nakagawa; 5 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his sons, Bart Goodwin and Tony Goodwin, and former wife June E. Goodwin.

The memorial service will be held Friday, May 23, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at Woodlawn United Methodist Church with Rev. Bernard “Sonny” Mason officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 A.M., at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484.

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Augusta, GA

Traffic light falls on person riding a motorcycle in Aiken County

Published

2 days ago

May 17, 2025

Press Room

Traffic light falls on person riding a motorcycle in Aiken County

NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) – Sweetwater Road at Edgefield Road was blocked due to an accident involving a motorcycle as of 10:45 p.m. Friday, according to the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office.

A traffic light in the intersection fell on a person riding the motorcycle, officials say.

Deputies were redirecting traffic as of 11 p.m.

The call came in to dispatchers around 10:30 p.m.

The motorcyclist’s status is unknown at this time.