Ga. panel will consider suspension of lawmaker

ATLANTA (AP) Two Democratic lawmakers and the state's top attorney will decide whether to suspend state Rep. Tyrone Brooks, who is accused of misappropriating charitable donations.

Republican Gov. Nathan Deal on Friday appointed the Democratic minority leaders of the House and Senate, Rep. Stacey Abrams and Sen. Steven Henson, to a panel that will decide whether to suspend Brooks. By law, the panel also includes Attorney General Sam Olens, a Republican.

Brooks was charged last month in a 30-count federal indictment with mail fraud, wire fraud and filing false tax returns. He has pleaded not guilty.

If the panel suspends Brooks, he would receive his legislative salary and benefits but could not take official actions. His seat in the General Assembly would remain vacant until the next election.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2013/6/262567