Missouri House lawmaker accused of child abuse resigns
COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri lawmaker exiled from the House Republican caucus over accusations of sexually and physically abusing his children years ago is stepping down.
Rep. Rick Roeber submitted his letter of resignation Tuesday without citing the allegations against him.
Roeber's adult children last year told House leaders that he sexually and physically abused them when they were young.
Republicans banned him from their caucus and called for an investigation.
His resignation came as the House Ethics Committee was meeting behind closed doors.
Roeber says he's moving out of state to be closer to family. He cited that as the reason for his departure.
House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, D-Springfield, said about the resignation:
With his own children accusing him of physical and sexual abuse, Rick Roeber never should have sought public office. Once elected, he should not have taken a seat in the people's House. After forcing his children to relive their experiences, his resignation as state representative is overdue. We commend the House Ethics Committee for listening to the survivors and helping to secure them some small measure of justice, and for raising concerns with law enforcement about his continued access to minor children. We also thank Speaker Vescovo for pursuing this matter to an appropriate resolution.
