Republican state Rep. Chris Corley was suspended from office today by House Speaker Jay Lucas after being indicted on felony domestic violence and gun charges.
In a press release at this afternoon, Lucas said Corley was “suspended effective immediately” pursuant to state law. If convicted, Corley’s office will be vacated and a special election must be held. If acquitted, he will be reinstated.
Corley was arrested last week after an incident where he allegedly hit his wife and threatened her with a gun in the presence of minors. In a press release today, the state attorney general’s office said Corley faces 25 years in prison for both charges if convicted.
The Graniteville rep recently ran unopposed for a second term in his Aiken County district. He made national news in 2015 when he sent a Christmas card showing the Confederate flag and urging his colleagues to repent for their votes. Corley fought the removal of the flag after the mass killings Emanuel AME.
Help keep the City Paper free.
No paywalls.
No newspaper subscription cost.
Free delivery at 800 locations from downtown to North Charleston to Johns Island to Summerville to Mount Pleasant.
Help support independent journalism by donating today.