🌱 FCSO Crime Suppression Unit Name Change + Tractor Fire On I-285

Hello, friends! It's me, Rose Mendez, your host of the Johns Creek Patch newsletter — here to tell you everything you need to know about what's happening locally.

But first, today's weather:

Cooler with a shower or two. High: 63 Low: 55.

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I have a limited number of sponsorships available to introduce our readers to local businesses they need to know. If that's you, then I invite you to learn more and secure your spot now.

Here are the top three stories today in and around Johns Creek:

1. The Fulton County Sheriff's Office has changed the name of its crime suppression unit from SCORPION to FAST Unit in response to the beating death of Tyre Nichols by Memphis police officers who were part of that city's SCORPION unit. The new name is aimed at disassociating the unit from the negative associations that the previous name evokes. Georgia NAACP President Gerald Griggs has said that while the name change is a good first step, it is not enough to restore trust in law enforcement, and he is pushing for further law enforcement reforms. (11Alive)
2. A tractor-trailer filled with pasta caught fire on I-285 southbound, resulting in the closure of the interstate at Camp Creek Parkway in South Fulton County's East Point. Traffic is being diverted to Hwy. 166 westbound as an alternate route, and other nearby interstates are also experiencing severe traffic congestion. It is unknown what caused the fire, and there is no indication of injuries at this time. (WSBTV)
3. Former President Donald Trump's petition to dismiss the investigation into his alleged interference with the 2020 election was ordered to be responded to by the Georgia district attorney, who sanctioned the investigation. The Fulton County Special Purpose Grand Jury was put in place to investigate possible criminal interference in the 2020 general election, in which Trump was the incumbent presidential candidate. Trump's motion also seeks to disqualify the Fulton County District Attorney's office from any further investigation or potential prosecution for alleged interference. (Washington Times Herald)

Today in Johns Creek:

• International Children's Book Day - George Pierce County Park (10:00 AM)
• Free Outdoor Fitness - Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater (6:00 PM)
• Energy Yoga - Ocee Library (6:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• JCPD wants to remind you that as Tax Day approaches, beware of tax scams! Visit the link for more insights and tips. (JCPD via Instagram)
• From pedestrian improvements to stormwater projects and public input meetings, view recent projects and happenings in the City of Johns Creek this past month. (City of Johns Creek, Georgia - Government via Facebook)
• LifeLine Animal Project is facing a critical moment as severely crowded shelters are putting the health and well-being of 432 dogs at risk. The organization is urging the metro Atlanta community to help by adopting or fostering a pet, or by spreading the word about low-cost spay/neuter and other resources. (Fulton County Animal Services)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured events:

• 4wk series Salsa Dance Tues / 4wk Bachata class Wed @ HDC Dance Starts April 4th & 5th (April 5)
• Easter Family Fun Festival (April 9)
• Taxes in Retirement Seminar at Milton Library (April 10)
• Stress, Depression, and Anxiety Recovery Program (April 16)
• Add your event

You're officially in the loop for today. I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow with your next update!

— 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!