Lawmaker Quits After Misconduct Allegations

Rep. David Almond Jr., R-Stanly, submitted his resignation to the House Republican Caucus Thursday morning after someone leveled misconduct claims against him.

"I intend to defend myself against these charges in whatever forum may be appropriate," Almond said in a letter to caucus members. "In the meantime, I have concluded it's in the best interests of my family and my constituents to resign from the General Assembly."

The nature of the allegations against Almond, an insurance agent and two-term representative from Stanfield, hasn't been disclosed. However, the lawmaker's legislative assistant suddenly cleaned out her desk last week and left his office, officials said.

The 63-year-old woman was reassigned Monday as a "floater," meaning she is no longer assigned to a specific office.

House Speaker Joe Hackney confirmed the a complaint had been lodged against Almond, but said he couldn't legally disclose details about the complaint.

"It's disheartening, but if the allegations made by the complainant are correct, then the resignation is certainly appropriate," Hackney said.

The Republican caucus met twice this week to discuss Almond's situation, and House Minority Leader Paul Stam, R-Wake, described the allegations as involving "serious, inappropriate conduct."

"We became aware of serious allegations earlier this week," Stam said. "The leaders of the caucus asked him to resign if the allegations were true. We don't know the truth."

No criminal complaint has been filed against Almond, and no legislative investigation will be conducted because he resigned.

Stanly County GOP leaders will have to name a replacement for Almond.