Thomson Mayor Benjamin "Benji" Cary Cranford is now facing felony charges after a controversial incident involving state prison inmates and alcohol, Fox News reported.
Mayor Cranford was indicted for allegedly placing alcohol in a path routinely used by inmates, questioning his future in office.
The scandal began on June 3, when Cranford allegedly bought a bottle of Seagram's Extra Dry Gin and strategically placed it in a ditch along Cobbham Road. This location is known to be on the route of a state prisoner work crew, suggesting that Cranford intended for the inmates to find the bottle.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) took over the case on June 6 following a request from the Thomson Police Department to look into the allegations. This move highlighted the severity of the accusations against the mayor.
Shortly after the GBI’s involvement, agents arrested Cranford at Thomson City Hall immediately following a city council meeting. He was then booked into McDuffie County Jail and later released on a $5,000 bail.
Cranford, aged 52, is now battling felony charges of furnishing prohibited items to inmates and attempting to commit a felony, as stated in the indictment issued by McDuffie County Superior Court.
The charges have stirred not only legal troubles but also political ramifications. According to local officials, if a panel finds it necessary, Cranford could be suspended from his duties until the resolution of the case.
This situation is not unique as history shows other officials in similar predicaments have been suspended under analogous circumstances.
Despite the charges, the city spokesperson, Jason Smith, commented, "As we understand the charges in this case are not related to Mr. Cranford's duties as an elected official, we do not have a comment." This statement attempts to separate Cranford’s alleged actions from his responsibilities as mayor.
Nevertheless, the public and political observers are closely watching how this case might influence Cranford’s ability to govern, especially given the nature of the charges.
Added to the mix is Cranford’s background as a former paving contractor and a recent lawsuit related to his business before he took office. Earlier this month, he settled a lawsuit that accused him of attempting to hide assets from a bonding company involved with his company’s debts.
Elected earlier this year after defeating incumbent Kenneth Usry, Cranford’s tenure as mayor of Thomson has been short but eventful. His administration is now under a cloud of controversy that could affect his political future.
The potential for suspension stems from a protocol that applies to elected officials who face serious charges unrelated to their official duties but could still impact their capability to perform in office.
This protocol aims to maintain public trust in the governance of the city, ensuring that those in power are not only effective but also beyond reproach regarding legal matters.
