A North Carolina state lawmaker has resigned from his legislative seat after being charged with child sex crimes. Rep. Cecil Brockman announced he would step down as a representative following allegations of statutory sexual offense with a 15-year-old. Brockman, who had served in the House since 2015, cited the need to focus on his defense against the grave accusations.

Brockman was arrested on Oct. 8 and charged with two counts of statutory sexual offense with a child and taking indecent liberties for an incident involving a 15-year-old, according to court records. His resignation came amid pressure from bipartisan leaders, including Democratic Gov. Josh Stein. Brockman’s letter to the House clerk stated he could no longer fulfill his duties to constituents.

A bipartisan committee was established to investigate the charges and determine if expulsion from the chamber was necessary. Democratic officials in Brockman’s Guilford County district will now select a replacement to serve out the remainder of his two-year term through 2026. Under state law, Gov. Stein has one week to appoint the nominee.

North Carolina House Speaker Destin Hall praised Brockman’s decision, calling it the “right thing to do for his constituents and for the North Carolina House of Representatives.” The move averted a potential expulsion process and brought closure to the situation.