Deal receives Brooks’ indictment; state rep could be suspended

Gov. Nathan Deal on Friday received a certified copy of Rep. Tyrone Brooks’ federal indictment, which begins the process that could end in the Atlanta Democrat’s suspension from office.

The Georgia Constitution says if a lawmaker is indicted, the governor must create a three-person panel to review the case. The panel is made up of Attorney General Sam Olens, and a senator and representative chosen by the governor. The panel must convene 14 days from today.

The panel must determine if the indictment “adversely affects the administration of the office” and makes a recommendation to the governor, who must accept it.