A Democrat state lawmaker in Arizona has resigned following a report on allegations concerning sexual misconduct several years ago at a college based in Washington, D.C.
State Rep. Jevin Hodge submitted his letter of resignation on Tuesday, less than two months after he was appointed to the role.
“We have accepted Representative Hodge’s resignation, which he offered in good faith and out of respect for our caucus, and we are prepared to move forward with the important business of the state,” House Minority Leader Lupe Contreras (D) said in a statement.
The Arizona Republic reported on Monday that Hodge was accused by a woman of unwanted sexual contact during what began as a consensual encounter in 2015 while he was a student at George Washington University (GWU).
A GWU hearing board found Hodge to be in violation of conduct policies against sexual violence and misconduct in 2016 and barred him from the school’s property under a disciplinary suspension, records showed.
On social media, Hodge released a statement of his resignation, saying he apologized “to those who may have been caused pain by my actions.” But Hodge said he “unequivocally” denied the allegations against him, though he noted that “now is not my time to lead.”
A prior statement from Hodge on Monday offered a more in-depth explanation of what he says took place at GWU.
“When I was a 21-year-old college student, I had a consensual romantic encounter with another student. We both had consumed alcohol and we remained clothed the entire time. I knew then as I know now that consent is non-negotiable, so when she made it clear she was not interested in continuing, we stopped. She called a taxi and I walked her out,” he said.
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“Months later, I learned that she accused me of sexual misconduct. I take responsibility for all my actions and have used this experience to grow as an adult, but I must be clear: I unequivocally deny the allegations made against me,” Hodge continued.
“In 2016, I requested that the police fully investigate these claims so the truth could come out. My request was denied by the University,” he added. “I believe in taking responsibility for my actions. During the University hearing on this matter, I could see that I caused her emotional pain. I am sincerely sorry for the distress that I caused her.”
The Arizona Republic report said the woman, who was not named, filed a complaint with the school but claimed she did not press charges because she was a lawful permanent resident at the time and feared that a complaint would be detrimental to her legal status in the United States.