Court Rules Spence-Jones Can't Seek Third Term
MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Miami Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones will not be able to run for a third term according to a ruling issued by the 3rd District Court of Appeal Wednesday.
Spence-Jones was out of office for 21 months of her second term as she fought felony charges brought against her by the state of Florida. One charge was later dropped and she won her case against the other charge as well.
A court had previously ruled that Spence-Jones was term-limited and couldn't run for the third term under the city's charter because she had qualified and won election twice. Spence-Jones then appealed the case, which is where Wednesday's ruling came from.
"We conclude Commissioner Spence-Jones was elected and qualified within the meaning of the charter, to two full terms despite her temporary suspension. Accordingly, she is barred from seeking reelection for a third consecutive term," the court said.
Spence-Jones released a statement Wednesday afternoon that read:
"I want to thank the City of Miami and its residents for your love, support and prayers. I respect the court's decision and I will continue my mission to be of service to my community. My family and I are looking forward to new beginnings."
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