AP: Convicted Pa. Sen. Orie submits resignation
Western Pennsylvania state Sen. Jane Orie is stepping down from her seat in the wake of her conviction earlier this year on charges she used her taxpayer-funded staff for political work.
The letter to Senate President Joe Scarnati obtained by The Associated Press says Orie’s resignation is effective today. Orie calls it “an honor and a privilege” to have served in the state Senate in the letter dated Friday.
A jury convicted Orie in March of 14 criminal counts. Her sentencing is scheduled for June 4. The state constitution prohibits convicted felons from holding public office.
State Supreme Court Justice Joan Orie Melvin, the senator’s sister, was accused of similar campaign-related charges last week.
A top aide to Scarnati confirms he received the letter.
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