Two individuals in Lowndes County, Alabama have been arrested in connection with alleged misuse of absentee ballots tied to a 2025 municipal election in the town of Fort Deposit, Alabama. The case centers on claims that irregularities involving absentee voting affected the outcome of the local election.
According to a statement from Steve Marshall, the suspects—Jacqulyn Boone and Steven Thigpen—have each been charged with unlawful use of absentee ballots, which is classified as a felony under Alabama law. Boone previously served as mayor of Fort Deposit, while Thigpen was a candidate for the city council during the same election.
Officials stated that both individuals were initially declared winners in the August 2025 vote. However, the results were later invalidated after election concerns were identified, leading to a new special election held in early 2026. Authorities have not released extensive details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Under Alabama law, the charges carry potential penalties ranging from just over one year to up to 10 years in prison if a conviction occurs. The case is being handled by the state’s Special Prosecutions Division, and legal proceedings are expected to continue as more information becomes available.