Thomson Mayor Indicted for Alcohol, Felony Attempt

Thomson Mayor Benjamin 'Benji' Cary Cranford was indicted and arrested for allegedly leaving a bottle of Seagram's Extra Dry Gin in a ditch for a state prison work crew. The charges include furnishing prohibited items to inmates and criminal attempt to commit a felony. Cranford, who was elected mayor in November 2023, was apprehended by Georgia Bureau of Investigation agents after a city council meeting and later released on a $5,000 bond. Authorities have not disclosed Cranford's motive, and he could face suspension if the charges are deemed to affect his mayoral duties. The case will be prosecuted by the Toombs Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office. Neither Cranford nor other city officials have commented on the situation.