Exclusive Content
Latest News
Hamilton Co. Health Department provides grilling safety tips
The Hamilton County Health Department (HCHD) is providing some food safety tips. They say when grilling, food safety is essential for a great meal. To prepare a meal that is safe for consumption, the HCHD says individuals can follow these…
Chattanooga PD seek identification of local auto burglar
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. -- The Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) say they are searching for the suspect in several auto burglaries in the Orchard Knob area. CPD says he is also using children to commit…
Man charged with attempted murder after toddler ends up in crocodile enclosure at U.K. zoo
Police in eastern England said Thursday a man had been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a 3-year-old boy "ended up in the crocodile enclosure" at a zoo. Cambridgeshire Constabulary said the toddler…
Officials end Birchwood landfill search for evidence in the death of Robert Locke
UPDATE (6/19/26): The Collegedale Police Department (CPD) says they have decided to end the recovery efforts for Robert Locke. According to the CPD, they say there is no evidence to support that there…
Whitfield County man arrested after meth found during traffic stop
A man has been arrested after methamphetamine was found during a traffic stop, according to the Murray County Sheriff's Office. Pursuant to a traffic stop, Patrol and Narcotics investigators with the Murray…
Comedian Carlos Mencia charged with tax fraud; Los Angeles DA calls him "one of California's biggest tax scofflaws"
The Los Angeles District Attorney announced on Thursday that felony state tax evasion charges have been filed against comedian Carlos Mencia, accusing him of failing to report $8.7 million in income over a six-year period. The 58-year-old comedian's real name…
Father's Day cookout costs a lot more in Tennessee
CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) - Celebrating Dad could add up these days. Hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, watermelon, soda and beer all add up. Especially in Tennessee. ConsumerAffairs compared the cost of a Father's Day cookout and our state had the third highest…
SEC and Big Ten Don't Like the College Sports Bill in Congress
The Protect College Sports Act took a step forward Thursday with a Senate committee approval. Plenty of potential pitfalls remain ahead, including opposition from the Big Ten and Southeastern conferences. The two most powerful conferences in college sports made clear that “revisions are…
Weather Update: FRIDAY JUNE 19, 2026
WDEF-TV News 12 Tennessee River Valley weather forecast Overnight: Partly cloudy, mild, scattered thunderstorms developing. Lows: low 70's. Winds: SW @ 5-15 MPH, gusts 25 MPH. Friday. M. Cloudy, showers/thunderstorms early. Warm. Humid. Highs: low/mid 80's. Winds: SW @ 5-15…
Goodine claims he's not being allowed to exchange legal materials with attorney in jail
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- An ex-Chattanooga police officer is getting close to his trial on first degree murder charges in the 2023 death…
Community Forward hosts Village Celebration
CHATTANOOGA, TN.- Community Forward hosted its very first, Village Celebration, at Orchard Knob Middle School. Community Forward does a lot of their work during the school year, in mid-town schools and…
Local karate champion continues to make history
CHATTANOOGA, TN.- Joel Westbrook, a Rossville, Georgia native and student at Green's Karate, continues to make history in American karate. “When he came into the dojo 10 years ago,…
Rock City releases independent traffic study amid the Gondola controversy
Rock City has released their independent traffic assessment as the gondola system sparked debate across the city. The 190-page report covers the impact of redirecting traffic currently arriving at Rock City on top…
"Lady Gucci" Patrizia Reggiani, who had ex-husband and fashion heir murdered, could inherit a $23 million fortune
Maurizio Gucci's ex-wife Patrizia Reggiani Martinelli, right, talks to her mother Silvana Barbieri in a Milan courtroom, Oct. 29, 1998, during a break in final arguments before Reggiani was convicted of orchestrating the murder of her…
Six goats return to Maclellan Island
Six goats have returned to Maclellan Island. The Chattanooga Audubon Society says the goats made their return via the Goat Boat. The goats are Alura, Gillian, Mark, Penny, Gimli, and McLovin'. There's also…
Monroe County Sheriff’s Department employees indicted for Unlawful Use of Inmate Labor
An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office along with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, has resulted in indictments against two Monroe County Sheriff’s Department employees. The investigation found that fleet manager…
Athens PD seeking 18-year-old attempted murder suspect
ATHENS -- The City of Athens TN Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in locating 18-year-old Cornelius Raeshaun Hurst in connection with a shooting incident that occurred at McMinn Village Apartments…
Hamilton Co. Health Department provides grilling safety tips
The Hamilton County Health Department (HCHD) is providing some food safety tips. They say when grilling, food safety is essential for a great meal. To prepare a meal that is safe for consumption, the HCHD says individuals can follow these…
Goodine claims he's not being allowed to exchange legal materials with attorney in jail
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- An ex-Chattanooga police officer is getting close to his trial on first degree murder charges in the 2023 death…
UPDATE: Collegedale homicide suspect pleads not guilty as police search for victim's body
UPDATE 6/19/2026: Collegedale Police announced that the decision has been made…
City council discusses recommended investment in sports facilities
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Should the city of Chattanooga help fund new sports facilities? A recent report from the Chattanooga Tourism Company is recommending that a brand new indoor…
What's Right With Our Schools: Stove Works Art
CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF) - Hamilton County students took part in immersive art program at Stove Works. The results are nothing short of inspiring. Let's take a closer look…
Concrete repairs to prompt lane closures on I-24 in Hamilton County
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. -- The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will perform concrete pavement repairs on I‑24 East near mile marker 182. This work will take place over two more weekends and will…
Then and Now: First Presbyterian Church
First Presbyterian Church in Chattanooga is a local landmark known to most, especially the students of UTC. What many don’t know is the church has roots going all the way…
Lamar Alexander Visits Chattanooga
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- He is a former governor, senator, secretary of education, and served under ten presidents. Lamar Alexander released a book detailing his life, which is already a New…
Pat Summitt Foundation hosts weekend of giving
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- This year will mark a decade since legendary Lady Vols coach Pat Summitt passed away. The Pat Summitt Foundation is hosting a weekend of…
Hamilton County seeking poll workers for August 6 election
HAMILTON COUNTY -- The Hamilton County Election Commission is looking for individuals to work the August 6 State and Federal Primary and County General Election. They say this is a paid position and the Election Day stipend ranges from $135…
Hamilton County passes FY 2027 budget
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- The Hamilton County Commission has approved a new budget. It was approved 9 to 1 Wednesday evening in a special called meeting. The total budget is over…
Baylor soccer players, coach say hosting Spain is a dream come true
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- "I'm going to be able to tell my friends, 'Yeah I shared a locker with somebody from the Spanish national team…
Mayor Wamp shares story of daughter getting surprise autograph from Lamine Yamal during arrival in Chattanooga
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)-Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp says a special moment happened for one of his daughters during Spain’s arrival…
City clarifies planned budget cuts for Artsbuild
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- The city of Chattanooga is clarifying the reason behind a reduction in the allocation for the non-profit Artsbuild in the 2027 Fiscal Year budget. Artsbuild,…
TVFCU Celebrates 90th birthday
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- The Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union celebrated a milestone Friday. TVFCU and the Chamber of Commerce hosted an event at the credit union’s downtown headquarters to celebrate the…
Scenic City Summit brings together tech enthusiasts and professionals
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- Today over 100 tech enthusiasts, developers, hobbyists, industry leaders, and scripters all came together in one place. It’s called the Scenic City Summit.…
Lavender Farm Opens on Flat Top Mountain
SODDY-DAISY, Tenn. (WDEF) There’s a new attraction open on Flat Top Mountain. Up in Soddy-Daisy, Flat Top Mountain Farms made their lavender field available for the public. You can…
Residents debate proposed Bradley County first responder pay
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF)- Bradley County residents are sounding off over a potential tax increase to support an increase in first responder pay. They made their cases to the Bradley…
First Baptist Cleveland donates 500 Bibles to Bradley County Jail
First Baptist Cleveland has donated 500 Bibles to the Bradley County Jail. The Bradley County Sheriff's Office says this gift will provide hope, encouragement, guidance, and spiritual support to many individuals as…
Bradley County Jail receives TCI certification
BRADLEY COUNTY -- The Bradley County Jail has received its Tennessee Corrections Institute (TCI) certification following inspection on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. The Bradley County Sheriff's Office says the inspection revealed no findings at the facility, and as a result,…
Traffic at a standstill southbound in Bradley County due to crash
BRADLEY COUNTY -- All lanes are blocked on I-75 southbound in Bradley County due to a multi-vehicle crash near mile marker 19.4, according to TDOT. We are working to learn more.
TOSHA investigating Amaero plant explosion, experts say this is reminder of dangers of lithium batteries.
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF)- A state agency says they are beginning their investigation into an explosion at a Bradley County plant Wednesday . TOSHA says they began that investigation Thursday morning after two people suffered severe burns from a lithium battery…
Craig Liner pleads guilty to 2025 murder of ex-wife
UPDATE: Craig Liner has pleaded guilty of the 2025 killing of his ex-wife Karen Liner and has been sentenced to life in prison. Liner…
What's Right With Our Schools: Cleveland High Best Buddy Program
CLEVELAND, TN (WDEF) - A new organization at Cleveland High School got off to a strong star this year. The Best Buddies Club is a student…
BCSO warns of scam claiming individuals owe money for traffic offense
BRADLEY COUNTY -- The Bradley County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) is warning locals of a scam involving claims that individuals owe money for a traffic offense. They say message may include what looks like an official court document and it…
Multi-vehicle wreck causing major backups in Bradley County near MM 19
Traffic is moving extremely slow due to a multi-vehicle crash on I-75 southbound near Mile Marker 19 in Bradley County. TDOT says the southbound left lane (of 2 lanes) blocked, left shoulder blocked. Delays are expected.
Bradley County passes strict new regulations against data centers
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF)- "Because I care much about this child and what you guys are voting, (me speaking is for) this gal right here." Tyler Ownby, holding…
Rumored data center sparks concerns in Bradley County
BRADLEY COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF)- Data centers have continued to stir debate all across the country. Now, numerous residents say they are nervous that one could be coming to…
Golden Apple Award: Madison Limburg, Walker Valley High
CLEVELAND, TN (WDEF) - Madison Limburg is a proven teacher at Walker Valley High. Her course load incudes English Language Arts and Journalism. She has also served as…
Bradley Central High School teacher misconduct allegations prompts investigation
BRADLEY COUNTY -- An investigation is underway following allegations of misconduct by a Bradley Central High School teacher. Bradley County Schools says they became aware of allegations of serious misconduct involving…
Identity sought for man stealing cameras from Bradley County property
BRADLEY COUNTY -- The Bradley County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) is seeking the identity of a man who they say was seen removing and taking the cameras from a property. They say On…
Atlanta area woman charged in Bradley County fraud scheme
BRADLEY COUNTY -- An Atlanta area woman has been charged after a Bradley County resident became the subject of fraud. According to the Bradley County Sheriff's Office, on April 3, 2026, a…
Golden Apple Award, Jordan Reeves, E.L. Ross Elementary
CLEVELAND, TN (WDEF) - The best teachers make learning fun. Jordan Reeves has a gift for doing just that, and her students' test scores continue to climb, and…
Bradley Co. Sheriff's Office increasing traffic enforcement near schools, bus routes
The Bradley County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) says it will be increasing traffic enforcement in issue-prone areas such as school zones and bus routes. "Speeding in these areas is dangerous and unacceptable. Drivers should slow down…
Golden Apple Award: Alexis Kaczor, Oak Grove Elementary
CLEVELAND, TN (WDEF) - Did you ever have a teacher who made you love going to school. For students at Oak Grove Elementary, Alexis Kaczor is that teacher.…
Bradley County Sheriff's Office warns of scam involving social media groups
BRADLEY COUNTY -- The Bradley County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) is warning locals about a scam involving social media groups. The scam is about local social media groups involving an individual claiming to need assistance…
Parkridge to be allowed to build freestanding emergency room in Cleveland
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF)- A few months ago, the Parkridge Health System announced their intentions to build a new freestanding emergency room in Cleveland. However, they faced…
What's Right With Our Schools: Whitfield County Financial Planning
WHITFIELD COUNTY, GA (WDEF) - Understanding money, and how to make it work for you, is a key to success in life. Students in Whitfield County are…
Whitfield County Sheriff's Office warns of scam involving incarcerated individuals
WHITFIELD COUNTY -- The Whitfield County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) is warning individuals about a scam involving recent arrest information and incarcerated individuals. They say they assume that scammers are now preying on recent arrest…
Three firefighters treated for heat exhaustion in battle with Dalton house fire
DALTON, Ga. (WDEF)- Three firefighters were treated for apparent heat exhaustion in a Dalton fire Tuesday evening. Dalton firefighters say they responded to a home at…
Cohutta Town Council reinstates police department, tables decision on mayor's future
[blox_vms account="WDEF" key="fe484f159dfe68167acb735ecb588ba2fcf118ab"…
Controlled underground blasting to take place off Old Tilton Road
Controlled underground blasting will take place today, Friday, May 1st, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for construction off Old Tilton Road, according to Whitfield County.
Mayor, police chief speak on resolution to Cohutta dispute
COHUTTA, Ga. (WDEF)- Has the controversial situation surrounding the small…
Community baby shower held in Dalton
DALTON, Ga. (WDEF)- Mothers in the Dalton area got to relax a…
Mediation leads to resolution in Cohutta
We have an update on a controversy engulfing the Whitfield County town of Cohutta. According to a post from the Cohutta Police Department, there has been mediation in the matter…
Underground blasting to occur off Old Tilton Road
Controlled underground blasting will take place Monday, April 27th, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for construction off Old Tilton Road, according to Whitfield County.
Whitfield County employees make take-home meals for senior citizens
WHITFIELD COUNTY -- On Tuesday, April 21st, Whitfield County employees volunteered with the Senior Center to assist with the preparation of take-home meals. They say a total of 31 grocery bags were filled, each…
Meth, marijuana, cash and scales seized in Rocky Face area investigation
WHITFIELD COUNTY -- Over 300 grams of Methamphetamine and over 750 grams of marijuana have been seized following an investigation in the Rocky Face area. According to the Whitfield County Sheriff's Office…
Dalton public safety board temporarily revokes license of establishment as manager questions process
DALTON, Ga. (WDEF)- What is the difference between…
What's Right With Our Schools, Valley Point STEM Night
DALTON, GA (WDEF) - Families at Valley Point Middle School recently came together to solve a mystery. Students used the skills they learn each day to track…
UPDATE: Man in stable condition after wife shot him multiple times
UPDATE: On April 15, 2026 at around 9 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence after receiving a call from Jeffrey Perkins, who stated he had been shot multiple times by his wife, Rita Perkins,…
Golden Apple Award: Kassie Dockery, Park Creek Elementary
DALTON, GA (WDEF) - Parents describe Kassie Dockery as a wonderful and dedicated teacher. Her students at Park Creek Elementary know that she will always be there for them.…
Whitfield Co. Sheriff's Office purchases Carter Kits
The Whitfield County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) has shared that they have purchased Carter Kits, which can be used to assist officers during calls involving children who have autism spectrum disorders. They say…
Fuller, Harris make joint appearance at Dalton town hall on forever chemicals
DALTON, Ga. (WDEF)- Both candidates in the runoff election in north Georgia attended a…
Charges dropped in teen's in custody death in Whitfield County
DALTON, Ga. (WDEF)- Indictments have been dismissed against five former employees of the Dalton Youth Detention Center in a teenager’s death. Attorneys for the family of Alexis Sluder say a Whitfield County judge dismissed those charges this week. Sluder had…
Chatsworth man convicted of child molestation, cyber sex crime
WHITFIELD COUNTY -- A Chatsworth man was convicted of two counts of child molestation and computer pornography on March 11, 2026. Barry Alexander Gordon, 40, was found guilty in 5 minutes by a Whitfield…
What's Right With Our Schools: GeorgiaFIRST Robotics Competition
DALTON, GA (WDEF) - Creating a working robot requires a strong understanding of mathematics and mechanical engineering. Teams of local teenagers recently showed what the machines could do…
