New York Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin resigned Tuesday afternoon, hours after surrendering to federal authorities.
Benjamin faces an array of charges related to a quid pro quo scheme.
Prosecutors called it a ‘simple story of corruption’.
He was officially indicted on charges of bribery and other offenses, most of which appeared to take many lawmakers by surprise.
The indictment accused him of concealing the entire situation while he was being vetted by officials to become lieutenant governor.
“I have accepted Brian Benjamin’s resignation effective immediately,” the governor said. “While the legal process plays out, it is clear to both of us that he cannot continue to serve as lieutenant governor. New Yorkers deserve absolute confidence in their government, and I will continue working every day to deliver for them.”
Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay issued a statement after Benjamin’s arrest. “The news regarding the arrest of Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin is very disappointing for the people of New York state,” he said. “Albany has a persistent and pervasive corruption problem and today’s federal indictment is a disturbing indication that problem is still a major obstacle hampering the People’s Business.”
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].