Creedmoor’s Board of Commissioners has effectively sidelined Mayor Antwane Terrill Downey, voting to strip him of most day-to-day authority and sharply limit his access to town resources after his latest criminal charges. The unanimous decision blocks him from publicly representing the city, using city email and entering City Hall outside scheduled meetings, a move commissioners say is meant to keep government business running smoothly while legal and personnel issues play out.
Board Vote And Restrictions
Under the board’s resolution, adopted in a 5-0 vote, Downey is barred from representing Creedmoor at public events, issuing city business cards and using city-issued devices, according to ABC11. Commissioners took the action following what local outlets have described as his most recent DWI charge.
Crash And Charges
Downey, 43, was charged after a Feb. 16 crash on U.S. 15 near State Road 1635 in Granville County, when troopers say he crossed the center line, left the roadway and hit a ditch and a tree, according to WRAL. Charging documents list counts of driving while impaired, driving with a revoked license, failure to maintain lane, reckless driving and possession of an open container.
Past Convictions And Community Reaction
Local reporting and court records show Downey has multiple prior DWI convictions, and officials say that pattern pushed commissioners to call for his resignation earlier this spring, according to The News & Observer. The News & Observer also cites a recording of the meeting in which Downey said he had completed a 30-day treatment program and outpatient care.
Mayor's Response
At the meeting, Downey apologized, acknowledged a breach of public trust and said he wants to continue serving in office, remarks that were recorded by reporters and cited by WRAL. The First Baptist Church Academy, where he worked part time as an after-school driver, placed him on administrative leave, the station reported.
Legal Road Ahead
The commission also voted to start a common-law "amotion" process that could eventually remove a mayor from office, though officials were cautioned it could take months and likely require outside legal counsel at an estimated cost of about $41,000, according to The News & Observer. State law still allows a sitting mayor to attend meetings and cast tie-breaking votes, so for now commissioners are limited to tightening administrative controls while the legal fight unfolds.
