Charges could delay Benton Harbor recall election

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (AP) - A county official wants to postpone a recall election in Benton Harbor after two people were charged with crimes related to gathering signatures.

Berrien County Clerk Sharon Tyler said Friday she’s asking a judge to suspend the May 6 recall election of Benton Harbor Mayor James Hightower.

The mayor says the controversy is an answer to his prayers.

Edward Pinkney of Benton Township is charged with changing dates on petitions used to gather signatures. He’s also accused of allowing someone to sign more than one time.

James Cornelius of Benton Harbor is charged with allowing someone to sign more than once and permitting people to sign outside his presence.