TOWNS COUNTY, Ga. — Voters in Towns County will head to the polls Nov. 3 to choose a new sheriff following the resignation of former Sheriff Kenneth “Ken” Henderson.

The special election comes after Henderson resigned Aug. 24 as part of a negotiated plea agreement in Towns County Superior Court. Henderson pleaded guilty to charges including simple battery against a police officer, violation of oath of office and the sale of personal property to a political subdivision.  

Under the terms of the agreement, Henderson was sentenced to 10 years of probation, with the possibility of having the probation terminated after five years, and was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine. He also agreed not to seek political office while on probation.  

The special election now gives Towns County residents the opportunity to select the person who will complete the remainder of Henderson’s term.

Towns County Board of Elections & Registration is overseeing the election. Qualifying for the sheriff’s race began Tuesday, Sept. 8, and is scheduled to continue through Thursday, Sept. 10.

The election is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026.