In a significant development, Benji Cranford Jr., the mayor of Thomson, Georgia, has been suspended from office by an executive order from Brian Kemp, following his indictment on multiple charges.
Cranford was indicted on August 14, on one count of Furnishing Prohibited Items to Inmates and one count of Criminal Attempt to Commit a Felony. The charges were officially transmitted to the Governor’s office, triggering a formal review of Cranford’s capacity to continue serving as mayor during the legal proceedings.
Kemp took swift action, appointing a special Review Commission on September 9 to evaluate whether the charges impacted Cranford’s ability to perform his mayoral duties. After careful consideration, the commission submitted its findings on October 1, determining that the indictment not only directly related to Cranford’s official responsibilities but also adversely affected the public’s trust in his administration.
Based on the Commission’s recommendation, the Governor issued an executive order suspending Cranford from office effective immediately. The suspension will remain in place until the conclusion of the legal case or the end of Cranford’s current term, whichever comes first.
The legal process is ongoing, and Cranford will remain suspended until a final judgment is made. If found guilty, he could face not only legal consequences but also the permanent removal from office. However, should he be acquitted, he may resume his role as mayor.
