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St. Charles Alderman Who Exposed Himself Resigns

St. Charles Alderman Resigns After Exposing Himself

ST. CHARLES, Ill. (CBS) - The St. Charles alderman who pleaded guilty to exposing himself while driving has resigned.

David Richards, 58, represents the 5th Ward of St. Charles. He resigned Sunday by e-mail, according to a press release from the city.

"After considerable evaluation, I resign my position as alderman of the 5th ward, effective immediately," the e-mail said, according to the city. "I will not attend the November 15 Council meeting."

Richards was in his third term as an alderman; he was first elected in 2001.

Last week, Richards was fined $150 and sentenced to three months probation after admitting he exposed himself while driving his car this summer. Richards pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct after he was accused in July of exposing himself to a passing truck driver in West Chicago.

The truck driver phoned police.

Mayor Donald DeWitte must recommend someone to fill the vacancy within 60 days, which can be confirmed by the council. The alderman would then serve until April, 2011.

Anyone interested should submit a letter and resume City Hall, 2 E. Main Street, or to mayor@stcharlesil.gov. All resumes must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 1.

DeWitte applauded Richard's decision.

"I believe Mr. Richards has made the proper decision in the course of a very difficult situation," he said in the release. "I believe his decision to resign is ultimately in the long-term best interest of his professional responsibilities, his family, and his community. I wish him the very best."

The Sun-Times Media Wire contributed to this report.

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