Q: I noticed a photo of U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor in a recent paper. He was flanked by plainclothes security guards. Is it common for congressmen to have full-time security and drivers? — Jim Miller, Hoschton
A: Cantor, R-Va., the House majority leader, has a personal security detail, as do the other party leaders in each house, positions that include the majority and minority leaders and whips. Security measures were enacted for congressional leaders after a 1998 shooting at the U.S. Capitol and strengthened after 9/11. The U.S. Capitol Police provide security for congressmen in the Capitol, but the majority have no protection when the leave, unless they've recently received threats, The Hill, a news organization that covers Congress, reported last year.
Q: What's happening with Eric Forbes' father, Shayaa? He was arrested and charged with child cruelty in the death of Eric. — Judy Winbush, Acworth
A: Shayaa Forbes, who is charged with multiple felony counts, including felony murder and malice murder, is expected to go before a grand jury in April, Paulding County District Attorney Dick Donovan told Q&A on the News in an email. "Thereafter, if an indictment is returned, the case will be placed on the next available arraignment and trial calendars," he wrote. An "essential report" in the death of Eric Forbes was delayed, but it was recently reviewed by the senior assistant district attorney in charge of the case, Donovan wrote. Eric Forbes, 12, died in October.
Andy Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
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