The Weekly Edition

12/28/2025

Daring DeKalb Jailbreak Sends Shockwaves Through Metro Atlanta, Inmates Captured in Miami Snellville, GA (December 28, 2025) – A dramatic jailbreak from the DeKalb County Jail earlier this week captivated—and briefly alarmed—residents across metro Atlanta, including many in Snellville, as three "dangerous" inmates made a daring escape that ended in their capture nearly 700 miles away in Miami, Florida.

On Sunday night, December 21, Stevenson Charles (24), Yusuf Minor (31), and Naod Yohannes (25) managed to breach security at the DeKalb County Jail on Memorial Drive. The initial news sent local law enforcement agencies, including the Snellville Police Department, into high alert, especially given Stevenson Charles’s significant criminal history in neighboring Gwinnett County. Charles had previously pleaded guilty in Gwinnett for violent crimes involving kidnapping and assault in Lawrenceville.

The escape triggered a swift and widespread manhunt by local authorities and the U.S. Marshals Service. Residents were urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The proximity of the DeKalb facility to the Gwinnett border meant that communities like Snellville were closely monitoring developments.

However, the fugitives' escape plan took an unexpected turn. Instead of lying low in the metro Atlanta area, investigators discovered the trio, with the help of an accomplice, ordered a Lyft and embarked on a remarkable road trip. Their journey ended on Monday night when U.S. Marshals successfully tracked and apprehended all three inmates in Miami. Authorities also confirmed that the Lyft driver, who was reportedly held against his will during the extensive journey, was safely recovered. The inmates are now facing additional federal charges, including kidnapping.

While the incident unfolded primarily in DeKalb County and concluded in Florida, the extensive reach of the search and the specific Gwinnett County ties of one of the escapees served as a stark reminder to all metro Atlanta communities about the importance of vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement.

All three escaped inmates are now back in custody, and local authorities assure residents that there is no longer a direct threat to the community related to this incident.

🐾 Hope for the Holidays: Dozens of Dogs Rescued in Snellville, GA (December 28, 2025) — In a week usually defined by holiday cheer, the Snellville community is rallying behind a massive animal welfare effort following a heartbreaking discovery on Britt Drive.

On December 23, Gwinnett County Police announced the arrests of two women, Christine Abbott (67) and Donna Slavin (65), following a months-long investigation into extreme animal cruelty at a local residence. The operation resulted in the rescue of 25 malnourished dogs, but also uncovered a grim scene: the remains of 13 other dogs were found stored in refrigerators on the property.

The Rescue Operation The investigation began in mid-September when Animal Control officers first visited the home in the 1900 block of Britt Drive. What they found was a "dire situation" for the animals:

The Living: 25 dogs were found confined to small, unsanitary cages filled with feces and urine. Many were severely underweight and lacked basic care.
The Investigation: Because of the severity of the case, Gwinnett Detectives spent months conducting veterinary examinations and necropsies to build a legal case against the owners.
The Charges: Both Abbott and Slavin face 12 felony counts and 14 misdemeanor counts of cruelty to animals. As of this week, they were booked into the Gwinnett County Jail with bond conditions that strictly prohibit them from having contact with any animals.

A Community Response Since the news broke, the Snellville community has expressed a surge of support for the surviving animals. The 25 rescued dogs are currently under the care of the Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center, where they are receiving medical treatment and nutrition.
How You Can Help While these specific dogs are not yet ready for adoption as they recover and legal proceedings continue, there are several ways Snellville residents can help:

Donate Supplies: The Gwinnett Animal Shelter and local groups like the Gwinnett Humane Society are always in need of dry/canned food, laundry detergent, and old towels.
Foster a Pet: Opening your home to a shelter animal clears space for rescues like the "Britt Drive 25" to receive specialized care.
Report Concerns: If you suspect animal neglect in your neighborhood, you can contact the Gwinnett Police non-emergency line at 770-513-5700.

This incident is a sobering reminder to look out for our four-legged neighbors. The community's quick shift from shock to support ensures these survivors will have a much brighter 2026.

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✨ Local Spotlight: Reclaim Your Time with Nanny Daw Cleaning ServicesLawrenceville, GA — As we head into the New Year, many Lawrenceville residents are looking for ways to simplify their lives and start 2026 with a clean slate. One local name that consistently comes up for those seeking a personal, "above and beyond" touch is Nanny Daw Cleaning Services.
Known for a high level of care that goes beyond standard surface cleaning, Nanny Daw has built a reputation in Gwinnett County for reliability and a detail-oriented approach to home management.
More Than Just a Cleaning ServiceWhat sets Nanny Daw apart in the busy Lawrenceville market is the "nanny" philosophy applied to home care. While many franchise cleaners focus on speed, Nanny Daw is recognized for:

Deep Cleaning & Sanitization: Using high-quality supplies to tackle tough grime in kitchens and bathrooms.
Organizational Expertise: Helping families declutter pantries, closets, and playrooms to create a more peaceful living environment.
Tailored Care: Offering flexible scheduling including one-time deep cleans for move-ins/move-outs or recurring weekly and bi-weekly maintenance.

Why It’s a New Year’s Essential With the "The Grove at Towne Center" and other local developments bringing more activity to the Snellville and Lawrenceville area, residents are busier than ever. Outsourcing home chores to a trusted local professional is becoming a top "lifestyle resolution" for 2026.

"A clean home isn't just about how it looks; it's about how it feels," says the team. "We want our clients to walk through the door and immediately feel the stress of the day melt away."

Supporting Local By choosing a local provider like Nanny Daw, Lawrenceville residents aren't just getting a spotless home—they are supporting the local Gwinnett small business economy. Whether you need a post-holiday reset or a regular helping hand, Nanny Daw continues to be a go-to resource for making local homes shine.

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Weather

🎉 Cheers to 2026: Snellville and Gwinnett Get Ready to Ring It In Snellville, GA (December 28, 2025) — With 2026 just days away, Snellville and the surrounding Gwinnett area are transforming into a hub of celebration. Whether you’re looking for a high-energy dance floor, a family-friendly countdown, or a quiet local dinner, there is a way to toast the new year for every speed.
🕛 Local Countdown & Grand Galas For those looking to keep it close to home, local venues are offering sophisticated ways to say goodbye to 2025:

The Country Club of Gwinnett: A staple for Snellville residents, the club’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration is expected to be a sell-out. Featuring fine dining at the Lookout Grill and a midnight champagne toast, it remains the go-to spot for those who want a "Main Street" celebration with neighbors.
"Escape to Havana" at Lanier Islands: Just a short drive north, the Grand Ballroom at Lanier Islands is hosting a massive 21+ tropical-themed gala. The night includes an all-you-can-eat buffet, live music from Accent, and the lake's signature midnight fireworks.
Hilton Atlanta Northeast: For a classic ballroom experience, the "Dinner & Dance Party" in nearby Peachtree Corners is drawing crowds with its multi-course meal and live DJ sets.

🎈 "Noon" Year’s Eve: Fun for the Whole Family Recognizing that not everyone can make it to midnight, local organizations are bringing the party forward:

Five Forks Library: On Wednesday, Dec 31, at 11:00 AM, the Five Forks branch will host its popular Noon Year’s Eve Party. Families can enjoy silly songs and stories before a massive countdown to 12:00 PM, complete with party hats and resolutions.
Game Changer at Lanier Islands: From 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, this family fun center is hosting a bash featuring arcade games, face painting, and a 7:00 PM sparkling cider toast—perfect for parents who want the "midnight" experience without the late-night fatigue.

🎆 Fireworks and DronesIf you’re looking for a spectacle, the skies over Gwinnett and Atlanta will be busy:

Margaritaville at Lanier Islands: The "LandShark Landing" party will feature a fireworks display over the water at the stroke of midnight.
The Atlanta "Drone Peach" Show: For those willing to head toward the city, the traditional Peach Drop has been reimagined for 2026 as a massive 1,000-drone light show visible from both Downtown and Midtown, paired with city-wide fireworks.

🚔 A Safe Start to 2026Safety remains the top priority for local officials. The Snellville Police Department’s "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign is in full effect through January 1. Chief Perry and his team have increased patrols across Highway 78 and Scenic Highway to ensure everyone makes it to their destination safely.

Pro-Tip: If you’re heading out, book your Lyft or Uber early, or check the Gwinnett County transit schedules for holiday hours.

Did You Know, that Snellville’s famous and slightly quirky slogan--"Snellville, Where Everybody's Proud to be Somebody"—was actually inspired by a trip to a tiny town in Texas?
Here are a few fascinating layers to that story and other local trivia:
The "Luckenbach" Connection: In the 1970s, Snellville's then-mayor, Emmett Clower, visited Luckenbach, Texas (made famous by the Waylon Jennings song). He saw a bumper sticker there that said "Everybody's Somebody in Luckenbach." He loved the sentiment so much that he bought the sticker, brought it back to Georgia, and scratched out "Luckenbach" to write in "Snellville."

The 2010 Rebrand: The slogan was originally "Everybody's Somebody in Snellville." It was updated in 2010 to include the word "Proud" to better reflect the city's growing civic pride and modern identity

Last-Minute Escapes: Four New Year’s Getaways Near Snellville Snellville, GA (December 29, 2025) — If you’re looking to trade the suburbs for a change of scenery this week, you’re in luck. Whether you want to toast 2026 under mountain stars or dive into the Atlantic Ocean, these four destinations are all within a four-hour drive of Snellville.
1. The Mountain Retreat: Blue Ridge, GA Travel Time: ~1.5 hours For those seeking "cozy cabin" vibes, Blue Ridge is the ultimate winter escape.

The Big Event: “The Clock Strikes Gatsby” at Living Water Winery features a Roaring '20s theme with casino games and champagne.
Family Fun: Blue Ridge on Ice (the seasonal rink at the Farmer's Market) is open Dec 31 and Jan 1. For the little ones, the Fannin Public Library is hosting a Noon Year’s Eve Party with a balloon drop at mid-day.
Day One: Start 2026 with a brisk hike to the Appalachian Trail terminus at Springer Mountain.

2. The Coastal Splash: Tybee Island & Savannah, GATravel Time: ~3.5 hours If you want to start the year with a bang (and a splash), head to the Georgia coast.

The Big Event: A massive New Year’s Eve Fireworks display launches from the Tybee Island Pier at the stroke of midnight, visible for miles along the beach.
The Tradition: On January 1, join thousands for the 26th Annual Tybee Polar Plunge. The fun starts at 10:30 AM with the "Gang of Goofs" costume parade, followed by a mass run into the chilly Atlantic at noon.
Savannah Bonus: Head into the city for a "Jazzy New Year" on the riverfront or a masquerade ball in one of the historic hotels.

3. The Riverfront Bash: Chattanooga, TNTravel Time: ~2 hours Chattanooga offers one of the best free, family-friendly celebrations in the Southeast.

The Big Event: Chattanooga’s New Year’s Eve at Coolidge Park kicks off at 4:00 PM. It features a high-energy lineup of live bands, street performers, and a huge fireworks finale over the Tennessee River.
For Kids: There is a dedicated Kid’s Countdown and Apple Juice Toast at 5:55 PM, so you can celebrate together and still get them to bed on time.

Stay Active: "Ice on the Landing" at the First Horizon Pavilion offers outdoor skating through New Year’s Day.

4. The Artsy Weekend: Asheville, NCTravel Time: ~3 hours Asheville is the place for craft beer lovers and those looking for a unique, eclectic atmosphere.

The Big Event: The New Year's Eve Keg Drop at Thirsty Monk is a local legend—a quirky mountain alternative to the NYC ball drop.

Nightlife: For a high-energy vibe, check out the Rock & Rave party at Capella on 9, or the cowboy-themed anniversary bash at Off the Wagon Dueling Piano Bar.

Day One: Recover with a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway (weather permitting) or a stroll through the "Winter Lights" at the NC Arboretum.

Fun Fact: About Snellville's Incorporation into Georgia"
Even though the community was settled in the late 1800s and a charter was drafted in 1923, it was never actually processed or recorded by the state of Georgia. As a result, Snellville spent 21 years in a sort of "legal limbo."

It wasn't until 1944—during World War II—that the city was finally and officially incorporated. During those "missing years," the community functioned just fine on its own, but technically, it wasn't a city on the books!

A Bonus "Hidden" Fact: Beneath the intersection of Highway 78 and Scenic Highway (Highway 124)—one of the busiest intersections in Gwinnett—there is a historical marker for the "Old Sealed Well." In the early days, this well was the main water source for the town and the site of the original general store. Even as the city grew into a major suburban hub, that original "heart" of the town remains right under the pavement where thousands of people drive every day.

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