🌱 Man Pled Guilty To 2020 Murder + Sheriff Warns About Scam Calls

Hello, hello. I'm here right on time with your Sunday edition of the Columbus Patch newsletter, filled with all the community information you need to know right now.

But first, today's weather:

A couple of showers. High: 74 Low: 47.

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Here are the top three stories in Columbus today:

1. A known gang member who was wanted on several drug warrants has been arrested. The Muscogee County Sheriff's Office Drug, Gang, and Fugitive Unit worked with the Phoenix City Police Department to conduct the arrest of Johnathan Paige who was wanted for trafficking heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. His girlfriend, Fatira Jimeson, was also taken into custody and charged with drug-related offenses. Both are being held at Muscogee County Jail. (WTVM)
2. A homeless man pled guilty on Thursday to the 2020 murder of 54-year-old Ricky Belwood, who was also homeless. Cedric Phillips, 45, beat Belwood to death close to the Chattahoochee Riverwalk. The pavilion that was located near the area of Belwood's death has been demolished. A judge sentenced Phillips to life in prison with the possibility of parole. (News 3)
3. The Muscogee County Sheriff's Office has issued a warning to residents about scam calls. According to department officials, there has been an increase in people impersonating Muscogee County deputies or other law enforcement agencies. The impersonators make phone calls and claim that the person who answers has a warrant for missing jury duty and must pay a fine. Officials with the sheriff's office said that they do not make phone calls about warrants and they do not collect money over the phone. (WTVM)

Today and tomorrow in Columbus:

Sunday, April 30

• From Broadway To Hollywood At RiverCenter For The Performing Arts (2:30 PM)

Monday, May 1

• Simple Steps Storytime: Babies And Toddlers At Columbus Public Library (10:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• A new study by Bumper.com found that electric vehicle 'charging deserts' – places where charging stations and ports are in short supply – stretch across states, largely divided by economic and racial lines. On average in Georgia, there are 2.22 charge ports per 10,000 people. Learn more about EV charging rates in Georgia and nationwide at the link. (Bumper.com)
• There are still tickets available for Bourbon & Blooms at the Columbus Botanical Garden on Saturday, May 6. Attendees will be able to watch the Kentucky Derby live while enjoying Derby-inspired activities and drinks. (Columbus Botanical Garden via Facebook)
• Columbus Parks and Recreation is gearing up for the first annual Fishing Tournament at Lake Oliver. This event is set to take place on May 6, beginning with safe light and going until 2:00 p.m. Early registration is available at the Lake Oliver Marina or by calling 706-653-4634. (Columbus Parks and Recreation via Facebook)
• A student from Columbus Technical College was named the winner of the Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL)! Janette Valdez was awarded a brand-new car from KIA for her accomplishment. The GOAL program honors students who demonstrate academic excellence and personal achievement. (WTVM)

You're all caught up for today! I'll see you around.

— Rose Mendez

About me: Rose Mendez is a freelance writer. She is studying English Literature at Hunter College. She loves reading, walking around the city, and coffee!