Lakeshore recall backers face charges

A county official wants to postpone a recall election in a lakeshore town after two people were charged with crimes related to gathering signatures.

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

The mayor said 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.