The Nation - News from Sept. 13, 1988

Atlanta City Councilman Hosea Williams need not be suspended from office over his weapons indictment since the charge does not involve his performance in office, a special panel reported. Georgia Gov. Joe Frank Harris appointed the panel last month after Williams’ indictment on a weapons charge, which stemmed from an incident in March at Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport where security officers found a handgun in Williams’ briefcase. The charge was later made a felony after Williams was cited as a habitual violator; he has a string of traffic violations. A state law provides for a panel to study cases of indicted public officials. Williams, a veteran civil rights activist, has said he routinely carries a gun and forgot to leave it behind before heading for his flight.