By Barbara Augsdorfer, Editor for the Effingham Herald

Effingham County Commissioner Reginald “Reggie” Loper requested, and Gov. Brian Kemp signed the executive order, to suspend Loper from his District 4 County Commission seat, effective immediately. The news of Loper’s suspension was posted on Effingham County’s Facebook page late April 3.

The action comes little more than two weeks after Loper was indicted on two counts of sexual battery on March 18.

Loper is scheduled to appear in court on April 10.

The suspension was the next step after the indictment was handed down, according to state law; and the suspension continues until Loper’s case is deposed or the end of this term, which is Dec. 31.

Loper’s seat is up for election with five Republicans vying for his seat in the May 21 primary.