Local

Arrest prompts Fulton elections meeting

September 21st, 2012

The alleged violation of the Fulton County elections director’s probation has led to a special meeting on Monday.

Samuel Westmoreland went to jail last week.

He was still on probation for driving under the influence in 2009. In a statement, Fulton County’s election board said it needs Monday’s special meeting to “determine the next course of action to ensure stability and continuity of leadership in the Department of Registration and Elections.” The board also said Department Bureau Chief Sharon Mitchell will lead moving forward.

In a separate statement, the Fulton County Commission said it will closely watch those next steps. It appears Secretary of State Brian Kemp will closely watch as well.

“Regardless of this unfortunate circumstance, Fulton still has a legal obligation to provide safe and secure elections,” said Kemp.

In the past and as recent as the July primary, Fulton has been criticized for its handling of elections. The recent arrest, about a month and a half away from Election Day, further puts the county under the microscope.