Stockbridge Mayor Postpones Misconduct Hearing Over Council Bias Claims

The Stockbridge City Council postponed an investigative hearing on Mayor Jayden Williams originally scheduled for August 23. The delay follows a petition by Williams and his attorney to recuse Councilwoman Lakeisha Gantt, whom the mayor accuses of bias and making threats against his family to force his resignation.

Williams faces allegations of sexual misconduct with an 18-year-old student and the misuse of approximately $4,000 in city funds for travel and meals. While police found no evidence of a crime regarding the misconduct claims, the city council previously stripped Williams of administrative duties and city hall access. Williams denies the allegations, asserting the expenses were work-related or accidental and have been repaid.

Former Fulton County Chief Magistrate Judge Gino Brogdon was appointed as hearing officer to resolve the recusal dispute. Brogdon scheduled a virtual hearing on the matter for August 31, with the main evidentiary hearing rescheduled for September 12. Meanwhile, a legislative delegation has requested that Governor Brian Kemp launch an independent investigation into the mayor's conduct. Williams has filed a civil lawsuit to restore his privileges, and a judge recently granted him access to his office.