Thomson GA Mayor Charged With Providing Inmates Alcohol

August 20, 2024 | 119 AM | 2 min read

What Happened?

The mayor of the City of Thomson, Georgia, was arrested and charged with felony charges on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) arrested and charged Mayor Benjamin Cranford with furnishing prohibited items to inmates and violation of oath of office.

Mayor Allegedly Left Gin Bottle for Inmates

The GBI alleges that Mayor Cranford left a bottle of gin in a ditch near the Thomson city jail on June 6, 2024.

According to the GBI, inmates at the jail were able to retrieve the gin and consume it.

Investigation and Charges

The Thomson Police Department requested the GBI to investigate the incident on June 6, 2024.

The GBI investigation led to the charges against Mayor Cranford.

Mayor Cranford was booked into the McDuffie County Jail and later released on bond.

Response from Mayor Cranford

Mayor Cranford has not publicly commented on the charges against him.

However, his attorney, Drew Findling, said that Mayor Cranford "maintains his innocence and looks forward to clearing his name."

Impact on Thomson Community

The arrest of Mayor Cranford has shocked the Thomson community.

Many residents are expressing concern about the allegations against their mayor.

The Thomson City Council is expected to meet in a special session to discuss the situation.