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Articles by Rob DiRienzo
Georgia's social media age verification law can be enforced, federal judges say
The Brief A federal appeals panel allows Georgia's law requiring social media age verification to proceed. State Senate Bill 351 requires parental consent for minors under 16 to create accounts. Tech trade group NetChoice argues the mandate violates free speech and user privacy. ATLANTA Georgia can enforce a new law requiring social media platforms to verify users' ages, a panel of federal appellate judges ruled Thursday.
Georgia's social media age verification law can be enforced, federal judges say
A federal appeals panel allows Georgia's law requiring social media age verification to proceed. State Senate Bill 351 requires parental consent for minors under 16 to create accounts. Tech trade group NetChoice argues the mandate violates free speech and user privacy. ATLANTA - Georgia can enforce a new law requiring social media platforms to verify users' ages, a panel of federal appellate judges ruled Thursday.
Georgia's social media age verification law can be enforced, federal judges say
State Senate Bill 351 requires parental consent for minors under 16 to create accounts. ATLANTA - Georgia can enforce a new law requiring social media platforms to verify users' ages, a panel of federal appellate judges ruled Thursday. Senate Bill 351 mandates users who are under 16 get their parents' permission to sign up. The trade group NetChoice, made up of tech companies like Meta, Google, and Amazon, sued Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr over the law.
Midtown beating victim calls alleged attacker who stole cop car a menace
The Brief Phelan Thorpe, 30, has been charged with attacking a Georgia State University student in Midtown. Police said he stole an Atlanta police car and crashed it into a tanker truck on I-675 in Clayton County. The student told FOX 5's Rob DiRienzo that she discovered threatening voicemail recordings on her stolen phone. ATLANTA Even after her alleged attacker's arrest, Georgia State University student Amaris Coleman said she feels nervous and unsafe.
Atlanta Beltline locks in land to complete 22-mile trail loop around city
The Brief Officials secured final land rights to complete the 22-mile Atlanta Beltline trail loop. The project required over two decades, $200 million, and 200 land purchases. Final trail completion is expected by 2030 as light rail planning continues. ATLANTA Atlanta Beltline officials have secured the final pieces of land needed to complete the city's walking and biking loop, after more than two decades of development.
911 calls, report reveal new details in UGA student's 8th-floor fall
911 audio reveals moment student fell from window A 21-year-old University of Georgia student survived an eighth-story fall through a window screen at the Rambler Athens complex on West Broad Street. Athens-Clarke County Police confirmed a cushioned metal bench broke her fall onto the pool deck below. A 21-year-old University of Georgia student is recovering after surviving an eight-floor fall through a window screen at an Athens apartment building Saturday.
Georgia Secretary of State warns election officials off political betting
ATLANTA, GA - NOVEMBER 11: Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger speaks at a press conference at the Georgia State Capitol on November 11, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. At the press conference Raffensperger announced an audit of the Secretary of State race. (Photo by Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images) • Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger warned election workers and officials against betting on political races ahead of Election Day.
Why a herbal supplement is raising alarms after college deaths
Mississippi investigators found retail packages of kratom near the body of 20-year-old Ole Miss student Robert Strang and another student. • Loved ones of the Atlanta native described their heartbreak as authorities await toxicology reports to determine the exact cause of death. • The herbal supplement is completely legal for adults 21 and older in Georgia, despite growing concerns over addiction and health risks.
Atlanta proposes new rules for Flock cameras, public safety tech
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens plans to introduce legislation establishing citywide rules for license plate readers and other public safety camera technology. • The proposal follows an Atlanta Police Department audit of 115,578 Flock searches that flagged about 0.07% for further investigation. • The legislation would require regular audits, public reporting, independent reviews and rules governing access, data retention and sharing.
Atlanta accepts Fulton County $68M offer for city detention center
Atlanta has accepted Fulton County's $68 million offer to buy the Atlanta City Detention Center, officials announced Tuesday. • Fulton County taxpayers are expected to save over $600 million by using existing detention space instead of building new facilities. • City leaders are introducing shell legislation Tuesday, with top officials meeting immediately with county leaders to finalize the closing terms.
Why a North Georgia town meant so much to Dolly Parton
Community members and fans gathered in North Georgia to mourn country music legend Dolly Parton after her passing, honoring the city where her marriage began. Locals and fans from far away laid flowers beneath a giant mural of Dolly Parton in Ringgold. Honoring Dolly Parton The backstory: Parton and her husband, Carl Dean, eloped in the city just over the Tennessee border on May 30, 1966, because they could get a marriage license and marry on the same day. Parton was just 20 and her husband 23.
Why a North Georgia town meant so much to Dolly Parton
Community members and fans gathered in North Georgia to mourn country music legend Dolly Parton after her passing, honoring the city where her marriage began. Locals and fans from far away laid flowers beneath a giant mural of Dolly Parton in Ringgold. Honoring Dolly Parton The backstory: Parton and her husband, Carl Dean, eloped in the city just over the Tennessee border on May 30, 1966, because they could get a marriage license and marry on the same day. Parton was just 20 and her husband 23.
Atlanta Beltline stabbing suspect | What we know about Johnathan Hamby
Jonathan Hamby is charged with murder and aggravated assault in the stabbing death of 29-year-old Ramon Harris on the Atlanta Beltline. Atlanta police say Hamby has 30 previous arrest cycles, is a convicted felon and was on probation for an aggravated assault. Hamby waived his first court appearance Monday as city leaders examine his criminal history and Beltline security.
Tennessee 'most wanted' man tied to brutal home invasion caught in Georgia
Tennessee most wanted fugitive captured in Georgia A joint law enforcement task force captured a Tennessee most wanted fugitive in Hapeville on attempted murder charges. A man listed among Tennessee's most wanted fugitives for attempted first-degree murder is behind bars in Fulton County after a multi-agency operation tracked him down in Hapeville.
Tennessee 'most wanted' man tied to brutal home invasion caught in Georgia
By Rob DiRienzo and FOX 5 Atlanta Digital Team Updated August 18, 2026 9:48 PM EDT Published August 18, 2026 5:51 PM EDT Tennessee most wanted fugitive captured in Georgia A joint law enforcement task force captured a Tennessee most wanted fugitive in Hapeville on attempted murder charges. FULTON COUNTY. Ga. - A man listed among Tennessee's most wanted fugitives for attempted first-degree murder is behind bars in Fulton County after a multi-agency operation tracked him down in Hapeville.
Tennessee 'most wanted' man tied to brutal home invasion caught in Georgia
By Rob DiRienzo and FOX 5 Atlanta Digital Team Updated August 18, 2026 6:48 PM PDT Published August 18, 2026 2:51 PM PDT Tennessee most wanted fugitive captured in Georgia A joint law enforcement task force captured a Tennessee most wanted fugitive in Hapeville on attempted murder charges. FULTON COUNTY. Ga. - A man listed among Tennessee's most wanted fugitives for attempted first-degree murder is behind bars in Fulton County after a multi-agency operation tracked him down in Hapeville.
Tennessee 'most wanted' man tied to brutal home invasion caught in Georgia
Task force officers and federal agents captured 36-year-old Kenneth Spruill in Hapeville without incident. Spruill was placed on Tennessee's top 10 most wanted list for his alleged role in a brutal home invasion and attempted murder. Spruill is currently held in Fulton County custody facing local weapons charges while awaiting extradition to Tennessee. FULTON COUNTY.
Woman arrested after Covington officer dragged by car
The Brief A Covington police officer was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital after being dragged by a car during a traffic stop at a QuikTrip on Highway 142. Police arrested Destinee Riggins at an apartment complex around 8:30 p.m. following an hourslong multi-agency manhunt. Investigators say the traffic stop began after officers responded to a shoplifting call at a nearby Walmart.
Woman arrested after Covington officer dragged by car
A Covington police officer was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital after being dragged by a car during a traffic stop at a QuikTrip on Highway 142. Police arrested Destinee Riggins at an apartment complex around 8:30 p.m. following an hourslong multi-agency manhunt. Investigators say the traffic stop began after officers responded to a shoplifting call at a nearby Walmart.
Suspect in custody after shooting at Georgia high school
By Rob DiRienzo and Akilah Winters Updated August 12, 2026 2:54 PM CDT Published August 12, 2026 2:08 PM CDT WARNER ROBINS, Ga. - At least one student was injured in a shooting at Warner Robins High School on Wednesday, according to authorities. One person is in custody. Warner Robins High School shooting What we know: Houston County Sheriff Matt Moulton said the incident happened around 2:15 p.m. inside one of the bathrooms of the school.
Suspect in custody after shooting at Georgia high school
By Rob DiRienzo and Akilah Winters Updated August 12, 2026 3:54 PM EDT Published August 12, 2026 3:08 PM EDT WARNER ROBINS, Ga. - At least one student was injured in a shooting at Warner Robins High School on Wednesday, according to authorities. One person is in custody. Warner Robins High School shooting What we know: Houston County Sheriff Matt Moulton said the incident happened around 2:15 p.m. inside one of the bathrooms of the school.
Suspect in custody after shooting at Georgia high school
At least one student was injured in a shooting at Warner Robins High School on Wednesday, according to authorities. One person is in custody. Warner Robins High School shooting What we know: Houston County Sheriff Matt Moulton said the incident happened around 2:15 p.m. inside one of the bathrooms of the school. Authorities added there was a group of students inside the bathroom when a verbal altercation took place between two of the students.
Suspected shooter in custody after Georgia high school shooting
At least one student was injured in a shooting at Warner Robins High School on Wednesday, according to authorities. One person is in custody. Warner Robins High School shooting What we know: Houston County Sheriff Matt Moulton said the incident happened around 2:15 p.m. inside one of the bathrooms of the school. Authorities added there was a group of students inside the bathroom when a verbal altercation took place between two of the students.
Suspected shooter in custody after Georgia high school shooting
A 14-year-old ninth-grade student is in custody, and another ninth-grade student is at the hospital after a shooting broke out inside a Warner Robins High School bathroom on Wednesday afternoon. The Houston County Sheriff's Office said the suspect ran out of the school after the shooting and was caught in the Huntington Hills neighborhood, which is across the street from the school. The principal says the school will remain closed on Thursday and Friday and reopen to students next week on Monday.
Georgia woman arrested after kittens thrown from vehicle, police say
Woman arrested for throwing kittens from car A 25-year-old woman was charged with animal cruelty after throwing three kittens from a moving vehicle on Osborne Road, according to Brookhaven police. The third missing kitten has been found after a 25-year-old woman was arrested on animal cruelty charges for allegedly throwing three kittens out of a moving car in Brookhaven on Wednesday.
Georgia woman arrested after kittens thrown from vehicle, police say
The Brief Police arrested a woman in Brookhaven on animal cruelty charges after witnesses reported seeing kittens thrown from a moving vehicle. Investigators found one kitten dead along Osborne Road, while a second survived with a dislocated tail and received veterinary treatment. Community members and local police are actively searching near Brookhaven Park for a third eight-week-old kitten thrown during the incident.
Apalachee High School shooter Colt Gray gets life without parole
By Rob DiRienzo, Kevyn Stewart, Jameson Moyer and Travis Maurer Updated July 28, 2026 11:15 PM CDT Published July 28, 2026 6:34 AM CDT BARROW COUNTY, Ga. - Colt Gray, the 16-year-old accused of killing two students and two teachers in Apalachee High School in September 2024, was sentenced on Tuesday by a Barrow County Superior Court judge to life without parole after entering a non-negotiated plea.
Apalachee High School shooter Colt Gray gets life without parole
By Rob DiRienzo, Kevyn Stewart, Jameson Moyer and Travis Maurer Updated July 29, 2026 12:15 AM EDT Published July 28, 2026 7:34 AM EDT BARROW COUNTY, Ga. - Colt Gray, the 16-year-old accused of killing two students and two teachers in Apalachee High School in September 2024, was sentenced on Tuesday by a Barrow County Superior Court judge to life without parole after entering a non-negotiated plea.
Student standing behind Trump at Georgia speech speaks out after going viral
Updated July 24, 2026 9:43 PM CDT Published July 24, 2026 9:40 PM CDT Student mimics Donald Trump's gestures at speech A 20-year-old college student went viral worldwide after mimicking Donald Trump during a speech at Wheeler High School. MARIETTA, Ga. - A 20-year-old college student says his impression of President Donald Trump at his a speech at Wheeler High School in Marietta on Wednesday was all in good fun.
Gunman sought after 14-year-old killed in SE Atlanta shooting
The Brief Atlanta police are still searching for a shooter after a teen boy died in a southeast Atlanta shooting early Sunday morning. One youth mentor said the teen, Sire Reeves, 14, was a dedicated volunteer with a bright future. Police were seen back at the scene Monday afternoon, but have not released any updates on the suspects.
Gunman sought after 14-year-old killed in SE Atlanta shooting
14-year-old killed in southeast Atlanta shooting A gunman shot and killed a 14-year-old boy behind a southeast Atlanta strip mall early Sunday morning, sparking an active police hunt for suspects as a grieving neighborhood mourns a dedicated youth volunteer. A gunman killed a 14-year-old boy behind a southeast Atlanta strip mall early Sunday morning, leaving neighbors in deep grief as investigators search for suspects.
Midtown MARTA shooting suspect hit with federal charges after teen injured
The Brief Federal prosecutors have filed federal charges against two separate men accused of violent attacks on MARTA trains in Atlanta. If convicted, both men could face life in prison. U.S. Attorney says it's rare for his office to pursue these types of cases, but is concerned ahead of the FIFA World Cup about safety on the transit system. A separate federal probe will investigate transit safety protocols and agency spending.
Gov. Kemp calls special session to consider redistricting in Georgia
Leaders react to potential Georgia voting map redrawing Political leaders are reacting after Gov. Kemp called a special legislature session to considering changing Georgia's voting district map. Gov. Brian Kemp has called a special session for the Georgia General Assembly to redraw the state’s congressional, state representative, and state senate districts. Georgia redistricting What we know: The executive order, signed Wednesday, directs lawmakers to convene in Atlanta beginning June 17.
Gov. Kemp calls special session to consider redistricting in Georgia
By Sam Daniel and Rob DiRienzo Published May 13, 2026 2:36pm EDT Leaders react to potential Georgia voting map redrawing Political leaders are reacting after Gov. Kemp called a special legislature session to considering changing Georgia's voting district map. ATLANTA - Gov. Brian Kemp has called a special session for the Georgia General Assembly to redraw the state’s congressional, state representative, and state senate districts.
Gov. Kemp calls special session to consider redistricting in Georgia
Leaders react to potential Georgia voting map redrawing Political leaders are reacting after Gov. Kemp called a special legislature session to considering changing Georgia's voting district map. Gov. Brian Kemp has called a special session for the Georgia General Assembly to redraw the state’s congressional, state representative, and state senate districts. Georgia redistricting What we know: The executive order, signed Wednesday, directs lawmakers to convene in Atlanta beginning June 17.
Fulton County chair race: What candidates say about federal raid
The Brief Three Democratic candidates for Fulton County commission chair debated voting rights and federal election probes Tuesday at Georgia State University. The forum focused on a Department of Justice investigation into the 2020 election, which recently included a subpoena for the personal data of county workers. Early voting is currently underway ahead of the primary election scheduled for next Tuesday.
Trump small business admin Kelly Loeffler talks tariffs, taxes, gas prices
The Brief Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler was back in Georgia to tour a factory Thursday afternoon. Small business owners are happy with the tax cuts, but anxious about tariffs and what could happen next in Iran. Loeffler said the high gas prices are a price small businesses must pay for stability.
Georgia election interference case against Trump dismissed
Georgia’s election interference case against President Donald Trump is now officially over. A motion was filed Wednesday morning with the Fulton County Superior Court and Fulton County Judge Scott McAfee signed off on it shortly after.
Westside residents push back on APS plan, call for inclusion in decisions
Westside residents say the APS school repurposing plan disproportionately impacts their neighborhoods. Community members also raised concerns about TAD funding and gentrification. Residents are calling for inclusion and oversight in decisions about development and education.
Gas explosion injures one at apartments near Mercedes-Benz Stadium
A gas explosion destroyed a vacant building at Northside Plaza, injuring one man and displacing about 40 residents. Residents say they reported strong gas odors hours before the blast, but officials have not confirmed those claims. Investigators are working to determine the cause while crews assess damage and search the remaining unsafe areas.
Argument between strangers outside Greenbriar Mall ends in fatal shooting, police say
Search query Argument between strangers outside Greenbriar Mall ends in fatal shooting, police say Thu, November 13, 2025 at 11:30 PM UTC A man was shot and killed outside the Greenbriar Mall Thursday evening, before 5 p.m. An off-duty Atlanta Police officer detained a possible suspect immediately. Police say the victim and gunman were strangers had gotten into an argument. ATLANTA - A man was shot and killed outside the Greenbrriar Mall on Thursday evening, sending shoppers panicking.
DeKalb police officer investigated after encounter with transgender woman
The Brief DeKalb County police opened an internal investigation after a transgender woman was confronted for using a women’s restroom. County leaders called the incident a "teachable moment" and reaffirmed support for the LGBTQ community. Sasha Swinson hopes the case promotes education, not punishment, saying she seeks understanding over anger.
Kemp, Dickens say World Cup matches staying in Atlanta despite Trump remarks Original
Comments from President Donald Trump are raising questions about whether the possibility of changing host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, even as planning is well underway. World Cup safety debate The backstory: "It will be safe for the World Cup. If I think it isn’t safe, we’ll move it into a different city. Absolutely," Trump said earlier this week from the Oval Office. The president did not mention Atlanta by name, but he has previously criticized the city as a Democrat-run hub for crime.
Brookhaven package thefts: Police seek woman, male accomplish in mailroom heists
Rob DiRienzo Wed, September 17, 2025 at 2:18 AM UTC 2 min read The Brief Police identified 44-year-old Amanda Noble as the suspect in a string of package thefts across Brookhaven and metro Atlanta, caught on surveillance video. Investigators believe Noble acted with an unidentified male accomplice, using vehicles including a white Ford van and a yellow box truck.
Burt Jones launches gubernatorial campaign with Trump endorsement
The Brief Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones announced his run for governor in Butts County. Jones secured the endorsement of former President Donald Trump. Attorney General Chris Carr has already attacked Jones over alleged illegal campaign financing. BUTTS COUNTY, Ga. - Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones officially launched his campaign for Georgia governor with a rally in Butts County on Tuesday evening.
Hispanic journalist arrested during protest no longer held at DeKalb jail
The Brief Metro Atlanta journalist Mario Guevara, known for his coverage of immigration raids and advocacy for immigrant communities, was arrested Saturday during a protest in DeKalb County. A judge gave him bond on Monday, and records show that he is no longer being held at the DeKalb County Jail. Guevara's attorney said he was here on a work authorization and was working to get a green card.
Ten years later: Families remember victims of fiery I-285 plane crash
A decade after a fiery plane crash on I-285 in DeKalb County killed the four people on board and halted traffic, families are still grieving. "It's hard to believe that it's been ten years," Matt Bailey, one the four plane crash victim's brother, said. "That day was really tough. Our world seemed to turn upside down." Jackie Kulzer and her fiancé Christopher Byrd were on the plane with Byrd’s father and brother.
Ten years later: Families remember victims of fiery I-285 plane crash
The Brief Four people were killed in the 2015 crash on I-285 in DeKalb County. Mechanical problems prevented plane from gaining altitude, NTSB says. Family raises $100K scholarship in victims' honor, planning another. DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. - A decade after a fiery plane crash on I-285 in DeKalb County killed the four people on board and halted traffic, families are still grieving. "It's hard to believe that it's been ten years," Matt Bailey, one the four plane crash victim's brother, said.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta airport announce new parking rates
The Brief Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is implementing new parking rate adjustments effective May 1, marking the first update in eight years. The adjustments are driven by a 30% rise in the Consumer Price Index for Atlanta and increased parking-related operational costs, alongside new debt for infrastructure improvements. New parking rates vary by location and service type, with changes affecting all parking facilities, including hourly, daily, and economy options.
LaGrange house shot up while victims, their children slept
The Brief A family of five was fast asleep when someone fired shots into their home on Rutland Circle. Two adults in the home heard the gunshots at 3:53 a.m., but didn't realize the house had been hit until later that afternoon. Luckily, no one was hurt and no other houses or cars were damaged. The police are looking into the incident and asking the public for help to find out who did it.
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