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Georgia Governor Suspends State Lawmaker Over Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Allegations
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has suspended Democratic State Representative Sharon Henderson of Covington after she was indicted on charges related to fraudulently collecting unemployment benefits during the pandemic.
The suspension, announced Thursday, follows Kemp’s acceptance of a review commission report concluding that the charges against Henderson significantly impair her ability to fulfill her legislative duties. The Republican governor’s executive order removes Henderson from office until either her legal case concludes or her term expires in January 2027.
Henderson faces serious federal charges of theft of government funds and making false statements. Prosecutors allege she illegally obtained $17,811 in unemployment benefits by falsely claiming she worked as a substitute teacher for the Henry County school system in 2019 and 2020 while applying for benefits in 2020 and 2021. According to court documents, Henderson hadn’t actually worked for the school system since 2018, and her employment contract explicitly stated substitute teachers were ineligible for unemployment payments.
The lawmaker, who has represented House District 113 covering parts of Newton County since January 2021, has pleaded not guilty to the charges and remains free on bail. Her attorney, Gerald Griggs, has vowed to contest the allegations in court.
“We look forward to litigating this matter in court,” Griggs stated in a text message earlier this year. “In America, every individual is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.” Griggs had previously urged Governor Kemp not to suspend his client while the legal process unfolds.
Henderson’s case highlights growing scrutiny of pandemic-era benefit programs that were rapidly deployed to assist Americans during the economic crisis triggered by COVID-19. The federal government implemented expanded unemployment assistance, administered through state systems, to support individuals who lost work due to the pandemic. Recipients were required to certify their continued unemployment status weekly to maintain eligibility.
The suspension comes amid a broader pattern of investigations into potential fraud related to pandemic relief programs. Just one day before Henderson’s suspension, former state Representative Karen Bennett, 70, pleaded guilty to similar charges of making false statements to collect $13,940 in benefits. Bennett resigned from the House shortly before being charged.
As part of her plea agreement, Bennett’s legal team indicated she will repay the $13,490 she improperly received. Prosecutors have reportedly agreed not to seek prison time or supervised release for the former lawmaker. Her sentencing is scheduled for April 15.
The pandemic unemployment assistance programs, while providing critical relief to millions of legitimately unemployed Americans during unprecedented economic disruption, have faced criticism for vulnerability to fraud. The rapid deployment of these benefits through existing state systems that were often outdated and overwhelmed created opportunities for abuse.
Federal and state authorities nationwide have intensified efforts to identify and prosecute individuals who exploited these emergency programs. The Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General has estimated that billions in improper payments may have been made during the pandemic through various relief programs.
Henderson’s case will likely continue to draw attention in Georgia politics as it progresses through the court system. The suspension creates a temporary vacancy in the state legislature, potentially affecting the balance of power and representation for constituents in Newton County.
Governor Kemp’s decision to suspend Henderson follows established protocol when elected officials face criminal charges that could interfere with their ability to serve. However, the suspension does not represent a finding of guilt, and Henderson retains the right to due process through the judicial system.
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12 Comments
Concerning allegations of unemployment fraud against an elected official. Taxpayer funds need to be protected, but the process should be fair and transparent. Curious to hear the lawmaker’s side of the story before rushing to judgment.
Agreed, it’s important the legal process plays out before making any conclusions. Hope the facts come to light and justice is served, whichever way it goes.
This is a complex issue with implications for both the lawmaker and the constituents they serve. I appreciate the governor taking action, but the details will be important in determining the appropriate path forward.
Well said. These types of cases can be delicate, and it’s important to balance the need for accountability with fairness and due process.
Fraud allegations against elected officials are always concerning. I hope the investigation is conducted impartially and the lawmaker is given a fair opportunity to defend themselves.
Agreed. These situations can be politically charged, so it’s crucial that the process remains objective and focused on the facts.
Allegations of fraud are always serious, especially when they involve public officials. I hope the investigation is thorough and the truth is uncovered, whatever that may be.
Absolutely. Transparency and accountability are crucial for maintaining public trust in our institutions.
While the allegations are serious, I’m withholding judgment until more information comes to light. Elected officials should be held to high standards, but the legal process must play out.
Wise approach. These cases can be complex, and it’s important not to rush to conclusions before all the facts are known.
Unemployment fraud is a serious issue, and I’m glad to see the governor taking action. However, the lawmaker deserves a fair hearing to present their side of the story.
Absolutely. Due process and the presumption of innocence are essential, even for public officials. Looking forward to seeing how this case unfolds.