Name Christopher Corley | ||
Born September 12, 1980 (age 44) Augusta, Georgia, United States ( 1980-09-12 ) | ||
S c rep chris corley posts bond on domestic violence and gun charges
Christopher Aaron "Chris" Corley (born September 12, 1980) is an American politician. He is a former member of the South Carolina House of Representatives from the 84th District, serving 2014 to 2017. He is a member of the Republican Party.
Contents
- S c rep chris corley posts bond on domestic violence and gun charges
- Episode 243 Chris Corley ECD at VML in KC
- Early life and career
- Electoral history
- Political positions
- Confederate flag controversy
- Domestic violence allegations
- References
Episode 243: Chris Corley, ECD at VML in KC
Early life and career
Corley was born in Augusta, Georgia to Kyle Corley and Shirley Corley on September 12, 1980. Corley graduated from Midland Valley High School in 1998, from the University of South Carolina Aiken in 2002 with a degree in political science, and in 2008 from the University of South Carolina School of Law.
He was previously the youngest registered lobbyist in Washington, D.C. He also owned the Law Offices of Christopher Corley in Augusta, Georgia. Corley lives in Graniteville with his wife and three children.
Electoral history
In 2014, Corley defeated Adam Mestres, Rick Turnbull, and Lance Weaver in the Republican primary. Corley defeated Rosie Berry in the general election. In the 2016 South Carolina House of Representatives election, Corley ran unopposed. Corley has served on the committee Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs committees.
Political positions
Corley introduced a series of bills proposing drug testing for recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) assistance, as well as limiting the benefits that able-bodied adults can receive. Corley supported a law granting reciprocity to gun owners from Georgia, as well as a failed effort to allow reciprocity for all concealed weapons permits. Corley had previously expressed skepticism about laws restricting individuals accused or convicted of domestic violence from possessing firearms.
During the 2016 Republican Presidential primaries, Corley supported then-candidate Donald Trump, and was his co-chairman in Aiken County.
Confederate flag controversy
Corley is an opponent of Governor Nikki Haley, the Governor having previously implored "anyone" to run against Corley during his re-election campaign. In July 2015, he suggested the State of South Carolina should fly a white flag of surrender on the Statehouse grounds in place of the Confederate Flag which was removed by the South Carolina General Assembly following the Charleston church shooting. Corley later sent Christmas cards featuring the Confederate Flag to his fellow Republican lawmakers, suggesting they "take this joyous time as an opportunity to ask for forgiveness of all your sins such as betrayal."
Domestic violence allegations
In December 2016, during an argument with his wife in which she accused him of infidelity, Corley allegedly punched his wife in the face, pointed a Smith & Wesson SD9 VE 9mm pistol at her, and threatened to kill her in the presence of two of their children. Corley was arrested and charged with first-degree criminal domestic violence. Following a hearing, he was released on bond. The felony charges carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Corley could also be suspended from the House of Representatives.
On 4 January 2017, Rep. Chris Corley was indicted on domestic violence and weapons charges, and suspended from duties of office. He could face up to 25 years in prison.
On 24 January 2017, Corley resigned from the South Carolina House of Representatives.