MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama state Rep. Kelvin Lawrence pleaded guilty to felony forgery one day after winning reelection, but the attorney general’s office says he can continue serving while participating in a pretrial diversion program.
Lawrence, a Democrat from Hayneville, entered the plea to second-degree forgery Nov. 4 after defeating Republican Josh Pendergrass in the Nov. 3 election for House District 69. The plea agreement was made public Monday.
The diversion agreement provides for the charges to be dismissed if Lawrence successfully completes the program. Among its requirements, Lawrence must complete 300 hours of community service at an approved nonprofit organization within 12 months.
Lawrence’s participation in the program does not prevent him from holding office.
Lawrence said he does not intend to resign.
Lawrence was arrested July 9, 2024, on charges of second-degree forgery and second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument. The indictment alleged that he falsely made, completed or altered a builder’s license with intent to defraud, according to the attorney general’s office.
Both offenses are Class C felonies, punishable by one year and one day to 10 years in prison. The attorney general’s Special Prosecutions Division handled the case.
Lawrence initially pleaded not guilty before entering last week’s guilty plea.
Despite the pending case, Lawrence won another term representing a district that includes portions of Autauga, Lowndes, Montgomery and Wilcox counties. The Montgomery Advertiser reported his victory over Pendergrass on election night.
Unofficial results published by Alabama Political Reporter, which identifies the secretary of state’s office as its data source, show Lawrence receiving 12,151 votes, or 63.3%, to Pendergrass’ 6,969 votes, or 36.3%. Write-in candidates received 62 votes.