The Gist: The Georgia House of Representatives passed a bill that would allow voters to decide whether or not to abolish the Glynn County Police Department passed with near unanimous support, passing 152-2.
Timing: The item would appear on the November ballot in Glynn County. If voters were to approve the measure, the Glynn County Police Department would cease to exist on May 2, 2021.
What happens if the department is abolished?: According to the bill, if the police department is abolished, all of its property, equipment, records, documents, funds and other items in possession or control of the department would be transferred to the Glynn County Sheriff’s office.
Why is this being considered?: Ahmaud Arbery was shot and killed in Glynn County. The police department and the criminal justice system in the county has been under fire for its handling of the case.
Who is behind the bill?: The bill was sponsored by State Sen. William T. Ligon Jr., a republican who represents Glynn County. It was sponsored in the House by Don Hogan, a republican who also represents Glynn County.
What’s Next?: The bill has been passed by the house and senate. It now moves to Gov. Brian Kemp’s desk.
Photo Information: A new mural of Ahmaud Arbery by Marvin Weeks greeted people arriving by caravan from Atlanta Saturday to protest the lack of arrests in months following the February slaying of the unarmed black jogger. Wes Wolfe/Georgia Recorder
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