Now that Clayton County voters have decided to put former sheriff Victor Hill back in office despite a 37-count indictment, will he be able to serve?

Gov. Nathan Deal has the option of suspending Hill if the case is not resolved in the courts by the time he is to take office January 1.

“One of the most difficult and certainly one of the things I do not seek is to remove someone that the people have selected,” says Deal.

If the case is not resolved, Deal can appoint a three-member panel including the attorney general and two sitting sheriffs from other counties who would make a recommendation to the governor.

If Hill is suspended, a temporary replacement would be named by Deal until the case is resolved.  If Hill is convicted, another election would be held.

“The most preferable thing and hopefully will be the conclusion is the trial itself will be held and be concluded by the end of the year,” says Deal.

Hill’s felony charges include racketeering, theft, violating his oath of office and attempting to influence a witness.  He is accused of using county vehicles and county-issued credit cards for personal use including taking a female employee on a vacation.