February 18th 2025.
Atlanta's Inspector General, Shannon Manigault, made the difficult decision to resign from her position just hours before the city council voted on a bill that would limit her authority. She swiftly left her role on February 17th, citing interference and intimidation from city officials as the reason for her departure.
During a news conference, Manigault stated, "I've come to the incredibly difficult decision to resign as Inspector General of the City of Atlanta. I have faced threats, bullying, intimidation, and harassment from those who have been the subject of our investigations." This statement was reported by Fox 5, shedding light on the challenges she faced while trying to fulfill her duties.
The Atlanta City Council did pass the oversight bill, which would restrict the Office of Inspector General's power to subpoena and access city records. However, Manigault and her supporters raised concerns about the importance of maintaining the OIG's independence without a mayoral board.
Upon hearing the news of Manigault's resignation, the office of Andre Dickens released a statement expressing gratitude for her service. "We thank the Inspector General for her dedication to the City of Atlanta. We are looking forward to working with a new Inspector General and an independent board in the near future," the spokesperson said in an email.
It's worth noting that Manigault and Dickens had differing opinions when it came to implementing an oversight committee for the OIG. This office was established in 2020 after former Mayor Kasim Reed was involved in corruption scandals. Manigault publicly opposed the proposal, believing it could hinder their efforts to combat corruption.
"The people of Atlanta want us to do our job, but city management has made it clear that they do not welcome a fully functional and effective Office of the Inspector General," Manigault expressed. She also highlighted the importance of having an independent board to ensure the office's autonomy, a model that has been praised by other cities.
However, Manigault faced criticism from city officials who claimed she issued subpoenas that violated Georgia law. She defended her actions by stating that her team was not aware of these requirements in time, further supporting her claims of interference. However, these allegations led to calls for her suspension.
Earlier this month, Manigault took a leave of absence before ultimately resigning, but she maintains that it was her own decision. "I needed to take some time to step away and reflect on everything that has been done to me. And that's how I've come to the incredibly difficult decision to resign as Inspector General of the City of Atlanta," she explained during her resignation announcement.
Despite her dedication to her role, some city officials have labeled Manigault as a "rogue prosecutor" whose actions prompted the creation of a governing board to oversee the OIG's operations. Mayor Dickens also supported the establishment of the board, emphasizing the importance of the OIG and the Mayor's office working within the confines of the law.
In related news, an Atlanta beauty supply company is facing accusations of scamming customers.
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