CORDELE, Ga. (WALB) - Governor Brian Kemp released an executive order on Feb. 18 regarding Cordele City Commissioner Royce Reeves.

According to the executive order, Reeves has been suspended from office “immediately and without further action pending the final disposition of the case or until the expiration of his term of office, whichever occurs first.”

A previous executive order by Gov. Kemp issued on Jan. 23 created a review commission to review Reeves’ charges and his position on the city council.

Ward 4 Albany City Commissioner Chad Warbington was on the 3 member panel appointed by Governor Brian Kemp. Commissioner Warbington tells WALB that something he learned is that this is only a suspension, not a removal from office.

”...they are simply just suspending him while the case is going on.” said Warbington. “It’s a challenge to be a local commissioner while you’re involved in significant criminal investigation and so, that is why a lot of times the suspension happens.”

On Feb. 10, the review commission found that the indictment of Reeves “does relate to and does adversely affect the administration of the Office of the Cordele City Commission such that the rights and interests of the public are adversely affected thereby.”

They recommended that Reeves be suspended from the office based on Code Section 45-5-6, according to the executive order.

Reeves’ suspension will last until he goes to court and is found either innocent or guilty, or until his term in office expires. Reeves does not have any upcoming court appearances scheduled.

Read the entire executive order below:

On Nov. 12, Reeves was indicted on the following:

• Three counts of Violation of the Georgia Racketeer Influences Corrupt Organization Act (RICO)
• Four counts of Illegal Use of Communication Facility
• Six counts of Violation of Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act
• Two counts of Distribution of Marijuana

Previous coverage:

• Gov. Kemp issues executive order regarding Cordele City Commissioner Royce Reeves
• Cordele city commissioner, Royce Reeves, sentenced in 2021 case
• Sentencing for former Cordele city commissioner delayed
• Cordele city commissioner found guilty in 2021 case, attorney challenges verdict
• 18 arrested, 6 wanted in gang investigation ‘Operation Shyne Down’ in Crisp County
• Cordele city commissioner arrested in connection to criminal gang investigation
• UPDATE: Cordele city commissioner charged, released in connection to taking down campaign signs in Cordele
• Petition filed to recall Cordele city commissioner
• Kemp appoints board to investigate Cordele commissioner’s indictment
• Cordele commissioner indicted for interference after wreck
• Officials: Cordele city commissioner’s arrest stems from interfering in fatal accident
• Cordele city commissioner faces felony obstruction charge

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