U.S. Representative Michael Grimm, who pleaded guilty to a felony tax evasion charge two weeks ago but vowed to remain in office, has announced his resignation.
Grimm, 44, overwhelmingly won a third term during November’s election, despite an April indictment on fraud and other tax charges related to a restaurant he co-owned, called Healthalicious.
The Republican legislator, former FBI agent and Marine will resign on Jan. 5, according to a prepared statement released by his office on Monday.
“The events which led to this day did not break my spirit, nor the will of the voters,” Grimm said.
“I do not believe that I can continue to be 100% effective in the next Congress, and therefore, out of respect for the office and the people I so proudly represent, it is time for me to start the next chapter of my life,” Grimm said. The New York Times reported sources said Grimm’s decision to step down came after a conversation with Rep. John Boehner.
Grimm will be sentenced in June, and faces up to three years in prison.
Staten Island Rep. Michael Grimm to resign
Bill Clark, Getty Images
