HIAWASSEE, Ga. — Suspended Towns County Sheriff Ken Henderson entered a not guilty plea during his criminal arraignment Wednesday in Towns County as legal proceedings continue against the sheriff.

According to Henderson’s attorney, Lawrence Sorgen, pretrial motions are expected to take place later this month, with the case anticipated to proceed to trial in August.

Despite Henderson being suspended again by Gov. Brian Kemp on Sunday, the latest suspension does not affect his compensation. The governor’s most recent action stems from a separate investigation into newly alleged misconduct that has not yet been publicly detailed.

Because Henderson’s previous suspension was nullified in May, he is entitled to receive back pay dating to Dec. 20, 2025, and will continue receiving his regular salary while the current suspension remains in effect. Henderson’s total annual compensation, including health benefits, is reported to be $101,542.

Following Wednesday’s arraignment, Henderson briefly addressed reporters but declined to discuss the criminal case directly.

“I came into office and did the very best I could and God willing, I’m going to get through this,” Henderson said.

Sorgen also criticized the state’s handling of the governor’s latest suspension, questioning the process used to initiate the investigation.

“There are undisclosed persons making undisclosed allegations with no notice to the accused and immediate punishment. I’ve never seen anything like it,” Sorgen said. “Who’s pulling the strings here?”

Gov. Kemp ordered the new investigation after receiving separate allegations of misconduct that were not part of the previous inquiries involving Henderson. Under Georgia law, a three-member investigative committee was appointed to review the allegations and report its findings to the governor. The nature of the alleged misconduct has not been publicly disclosed.

The investigation remains ongoing.