GROVES — A Jefferson County judge ruled on Monday that the City of Groves can move forward with a recall election to replace an embattled Groves City Councilman.
Councilman Cross Coburn has been in the spotlight since members of Groves City Council and local media were sent nude pictures that Coburn had sent to someone through a gay dating app.
A petition was created to gain momentum for a recall election. Coburn’s attorney Jill Pierce said two people came forward with signed affidavits saying they didn't sign the petition.
Pierce said event though recall election ballots have already been sent out the fight is far from over.
"The mayor’s wife signed under oath that all the signatures on page 183 are true and correct and we now know two of them are forgeries," said Pierce.
Pierce said she filed an election fraud report against the Mayor’s wife Darla Bailey who is listed as the person who handled the petition.
12news asked the Mayor Brad Bailey about Pierce's accusations about his wife but he did not make a comment.
Mayor Bailey did not answer that question but told 12news he is glad the recall election is moving forward.
"I think you should be held to a higher position up here and his track record speaks for itself,' said Mayor Bailey.
Coburn apologized for the mistake but said he is confident that everything will work out.
"I feel pretty positive that I can show them I can be on city council in the coming year, I do believe that there is a lot more support than criticism," said Coburn.
Coburn’s main goal is to move forward and focus on bigger issues in the city of groves.
“This shows just were the priorities of some of our elected officials are and some of the people running now,” said Coburn.
On November 6th, voters will find a measure on the ballot asking whether they want to recall Coburn.
Attorney Jill Pierce said she asked for more details on Judge Donald Floyd’s ruling but did not hear back.