In Alabama, a former mayor and a city council candidate have been arrested for their alleged involvement in absentee ballot misconduct during a contentious municipal election.
Jacqulyn Boone, 51, and Steven Thigpen, 49, both from Lowndes County, are facing charges of unlawful use of absentee ballots, a Class C felony, according to authorities. The allegations highlight severe irregularities concerning absentee voting in the August 2025 election for Ft. Deposit.
The two had initially claimed victory in their races, but the joy was short-lived. Election officials later nullified the results due to reported “voting irregularities,” which led to both candidates being stripped of their wins. Details surrounding these irregularities remain undisclosed by the attorney general’s office.
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A new election was conducted in January following the scandal. Boone was unable to reclaim her position as mayor, while Thigpen chose to withdraw from the contest.
Boone’s platform had previously emphasized economic growth and the maintenance of city services in Fort Deposit, a small town facing challenges like dwindling population and resource limitations. She made history as the first black female mayor of the city.
Under the laws of Alabama, those convicted of unlawful use of absentee ballots face potential prison sentences ranging from 1 to 10 years.
The investigation continues, with authorities indicating that further information may emerge as the case progresses.
