Stockbridge Mayor Ousted By Council After Daylong Meeting: City Plans Special Election–But Will The Now-Former Mayor Appeal, Or Run Again?

In a historic and contentious session, the Stockbridge City Council voted unanimously to impeach and remove Mayor Jayden Williams from office Saturday night.

The decision came after a grueling, 11-hour evidentiary hearing on September 12, 2026, where council members weighed allegations of financial misconduct and inappropriate relationships against the 23-year-old leader. Williams, who made history in January as the city’s youngest-ever mayor, is now the first in Stockbridge history to be forcefully ousted through impeachment.

City Makes A Case For Misconduct

The removal followed an exhaustive investigation led by attorney Randy Geer. The probe painted a picture of a young official the city said abused the privileges of his office.

Key evidence presented during the hearing included financial audits revealed Williams made a series of purchases on his city-issued credit card which appeared to be of a personal nature. The charges included haircuts, clothing alterations, ride-shares, dining, and movie tickets.

The investigation also revealed that Williams racked up a significant amount of expenses on a city fuel card for personal trips using a municipal vehicle.

The most damaging allegations centered on explicit Instagram and text messages Williams sent to an 18-year-old high school student, who Williams was supposed to mentor. Phone records showed Williams sending late-night sexually suggestive messages, disappearing media, and appearing to offer city-backed benefits in exchange for a “friends with benefits” relationship.

A Fractured Council Delivers the Verdict

The high-stakes hearing was presided over by retired Fulton County Judge Gino Brogdon Sr. to ensure a fair legal framework. Williams’ defense attorney, Mawuli Davis, did not contest the validity of the expenditures or the messages. Instead, Davis argued that Williams was never given formal training or a handbook on corporate card policies, framing the errors as a lack of mentorship for a young, inexperienced leader.

“This young man was chosen by the people,” Davis argued, claiming the council was rushing to judgment.

The argument failed to sway the council. Ultimately, Councilmembers Alphonso Thomas, Keith Evans, and John Thompson voted 3-0 to remove Williams immediately. Councilmember Yolanda Barber abstained from voting, and Councilmember LaKeisha Gantt was recused by the judge prior to the hearing due to a conflict of interest.

What Lies Ahead for Stockbridge

City officials confirmed they have already engaged with the Henry County Board of Elections to establish a timeline for a special election.

While Williams currently faces no criminal charges, the independent investigation’s findings could be referred to the District Attorney’s office for further review. Williams and his legal team have the right to appeal the city council’s decision to the Henry County Superior Court.

No definitive decision has been made yet on whether former Mayor Jayden Williams will formally appeal his removal.

Following the City Council’s vote on Saturday night, Williams’ defense attorney, Robert Kenner, stated that they are “deeply disappointed” with the outcome. According to reports, the defense team is currently weighing whether to appeal or run again in the upcoming special election to reclaim his seat.

Williams would likely face challengers if he decides to run again: Several potential candidates for the seat could emerge, including Councilmember and Mayor Pro-Tem Elton Alexander.