Governor Kemp Suspends Newton County Commission Chair Marcello Banes for Third Time Amid New Federal Charges
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has suspended Newton County Board of Commissioners Chair Marcello Banes for the third time. This latest suspension follows an August indictment that introduced new federal charges of money laundering against Banes, connected to a real estate deal. Banes is currently awaiting trial, which is scheduled for December. The executive order issued by Governor Kemp explicitly cites this new evidence as the basis for the suspension. The suspension will remain in effect either until Banes' current term concludes or until the outcome of his trial is determined. The Newton County Board of Commissioners has scheduled a special meeting to select three potential replacements, from whom Governor Kemp will choose an interim chair.