EFFINGHAM COUNTY, Ga. (WSAV) - A suspended, long-time commissioner is being honored, but it has some members of the community upset.
Reginald Loper was removed from his position in 2023 following sexual battery allegations. The claims were taken to court. In August, the former commissioner entered an Alford plea for a lesser charge of simple battery.
Even so, many residents tell News 3 that they are confused as to why he's still being honored by the county. It's a joint celebration with outgoing Chairman Wesley Corbitt.
After Loper was arrested in 2023, he was indicted in March 2024 for sexual battery against a child under 16 and sexual battery. Later in the year, his attorneys asked a judge to dismiss his first charge, claiming the alleged victim was 16 at the time, not 15.
In the State of Georgia, sexual battery is a felony if the victim is under 16. If 16 or older, then it is only a misdemeanor. In August, he entered an Alford plea, claiming innocence while also admitting the prosecution's evidence would result in a guilty verdict.
Some people are calling on the county to cancel the event or only honor Corbitt. In a post on a public Facebook page, one person wrote, "Our county has to do better with decision making. This party invitation for a joint celebration… is an unacceptable use of tax dollars."
Another person posted, claiming to know Loper as a "good man".
"The board of commissioners has no comment," a spokesperson with the county tells News 3. WSAV did call each of the commissioners, but did not hear back. A county representative says the event is still happening the county administrative complex on Tuesday afternoon at 3.