Politics
Deal receives Brooks’ indictment; state rep could be suspended
Supporters of Rep. Tyrone Brooks, D-Atlanta, listen as he holds a press conference at the Moore's Ford Bridge Thursday, May 30, 2013. The location of the news conference would appear to reflect supporters' beliefs that federal authorities are targeting Brooks as retaliation for his work to shine light on the unsolved 1946 lynching of two black couples along the bridge. Brooks has said he believes FBI agents at the time were involved.
By Aaron Gould Sheinin
May 31, 2013Gov. 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.
Brooks faces 30 counts of wire, mail and tax fraud. He has pleaded not guilty and is free on bond.
