Reports of child molestation and sexual predators are up in Columbia County. That's why the sheriff's office warned parents Tuesday morning that some groups say sex with children is natural.

Georgia lawmakers are close to passing a law that would increase the penalty for littering. Right now, litterbugs are given a $1000 fine. This new law would also add points to a litterbug's license.

According to a Richmond County sheriff's report, two sex assaults occurred in a Paine College dormitory Sunday, hours apart. Tuesday News 12 learned through that report that the two girls and others were drinking with some guys when the alleged sexual misconduct took place.

Traffic was all tied up on I-20 this afternoon after a truck pulling a trailer and traveling westbound attempted to merge onto I-520 eastbound. The truck had trouble getting over and ended up colliding with a camper.

Around 11:30 Tuesday morning, Columbia County sheriff's deputies were called to Greenbrier Middle. Deputies say they found marijuana in the shoe of one 14-year-old student.

The Columbia County school calendar is up for discussion again. This time it's the start date for school during the 2007-2008 school year. That's the one parents voted on.

A dangerous railroad crossing off Old Mike Padgett Highway has neighbors worried about what might happen. They say drivers who are unfamiliar with the area are getting stuck on the tracks.

Questions are still swirling around Richmond County School Superintendent Dr. Charles Larke. How much does he really get paid? How does it compare to other Georgia school districts?

You have a week to decide: how will you navigate traffic during Masters Week? There are some changes to the roads this year. News 12's Kristen Cosby is on your side with how to manage the mess.

Three years after a deadly head-on collision, and the man accused hasn't seen his day in court. The waiting game continues. An MCG researcher accused of causing a deadly head on crash in 2003 is back in jail.

Five million dollars...that's what Columbia County expected to bring in by consolidating the government under the same system as Augusta-Richmond County. But consolidation is on hold until at least next year, meaning that the county may turn to property taxes to pay for its projects.

The man accused of killing his 16-year-old ex-girlfriend and her baby has his day in court. Today jury selection and the trial of Cedric Walker began. Walker faces murder charges in the deaths of Ramona Givens and her one-month-old son.

A defense request to throw out the murder charges against accused courthouse gunman Brian Nichols is among several motions that will be argued this week in Atlanta.

Some students in South Carolina's Lexington School District 1 could only receive crackers and a juice for lunch next school year.

Fires have been a major concern throughout the CSRA lately, and South Carolina forestry officials are raising a red flag. Forestry Commission spokesman Ken Cabe says they're about 55 firefighters short of numbers they should have.

If you live in Aiken County, you've probably dialed 211 to get important information. The service provides phone numbers, even counseling 24 hours a day. Its growing popularity is now requiring more volunteers than ever.

When disaster strikes, do you know what to do? Columbia County is gaining more and more interest from the community to participate in their Emergency Response Team.

Protestors in Georgia hoped to show the economic impact of the Hispanic community both in the workforce and in spending powers after House lawmakers passed a bill that would crack down on illegal immigration.

Scandal in a local school. Five teachers stand accused of giving students grades they didn't deserve. The events at Warren County High School have cost those five teachers their jobs, and could cost some students their Hope scholarships.

A man is dead after he crosses the double line and runs directly into a wide load. Neighbors say it's just the latest example of the dangers when big trucks and small roads collide.

Ford Conger Field is empty now, but Saturday 30,000 people will descend on it. It's an Aiken tradition that's filled with big jumps and big fun. Saturday the screaming will abound as around 60 horses run and jump in Aiken's Steeplechase, a renewed race going strong for 40 years.

If you've driven down Laney Walker Boulevard lately, you may have noticed the progress on the new Laney High School stadium and athletic complex. Contractors are on schedule and hope to be finished by the fall.

A big trial wrapped up with a guilty verdict Thursday. Corey Coggins is convicted of Mack Smith's murder after his friend and former co-defendant took the stand against him. News 12's Stephanie Baker was in the courtroom when the verdict came down.

The case of missing Alabama teen Natalee Holloway is one of the most widely discussed missing persons cases in years. This is the last known picture of her--taken just before she disappeared on Aruba last spring. What happened to her?

It's a place where families take walks, and kids ride bikes and roller blade. And it's only as safe as the driver who happens to be behind the wheel. But we were surprised to learn that deputies don't have every tool at their disposal to stop these dangerous drivers.