Alabama State Representative David Cole (R) faced an arrest and voter fraud charges on Tuesday. The allegations against him include voting in “multiple or unauthorized locations,” as revealed in Madison County Sheriff’s Office jail records.
According to these records, Cole was taken into custody on Tuesday afternoon but was subsequently released on bail set at $2,500. This charge is classified as a Class C felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years upon conviction.
Reports from Al.com, a local news outlet, confirmed that Attorney General Steve Marshall’s office was handling the prosecution of this case.
Court records did not provide immediate additional details about the charges. Nevertheless, Cole’s arrest follows increased scrutiny regarding his primary place of residence.
While Cole was elected to represent District 10 in the Alabama legislature, local reports suggested that he actually resided in District 4, which would be in violation of state law. The election results were challenged in court by Libertarian candidate Elijah Boyd.
During a deposition in May, Cole faced over two hours of questioning that primarily focused on whether his listed residence in District 10 was indeed his actual home. In his responses, he claimed uncertainty about moving personal belongings into the house, sleeping overnight there, eating meals, or bathing.
Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (R) issued a statement on Tuesday, emphasizing that the investigation was ongoing, and he awaited further information. He underscored the importance of upholding election integrity.
“In recent years, the Alabama House has prioritized legislation aimed at enhancing election integrity, and we believe that any allegations of fraud must be addressed without regard to party affiliation, public office, or candidacy,” the statement asserted.
“Alabamians can maintain confidence that their elections are conducted with honesty, their votes are fairly cast and counted, and their ballot boxes are secure. The validity of the allegations against Cole will now be determined by a court of law, and I expect that Alabama’s election laws will remain true to their intended purpose,” Ledbetter concluded.