Henderson Faces Second Review

Mountain Buzz

Staff Report

According to Jeff Batten from WJRB/WJUL in Young Harris, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has issued an executive order directing the same three-person panel (two sheriffs and Attorney General Chris Carr) that previously recommended the suspension of Towns County Sheriff Ken Henderson to review him again, this time specifically because of his October 27, 2025 indictment on felony and misdemeanor charges.

Key points:

• Henderson was already suspended with pay on October 21 for separate misconduct allegations (currently set to expire around December 20).

• The new review will determine if the criminal indictment “adversely affects” his ability to perform his duties and protect the public’s interests.

• Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 45-5-6), a second suspension triggered by an indictment can be without pay and has no fixed expiration, potentially lasting until the criminal case is resolved.

• The panel has 14 days to make its recommendation; timing aligns closely with the end of his current 60-day suspension.

• The underlying charges stem from a December 12, 2024 physical and verbal altercation with a Hiawassee city police officer that was recorded on video.

• No significant movement in the criminal prosecution is expected before the end of 2025.

For Batten's full article, click here.