Queens Council Member Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse

Council member Dennis Gallagher of Queens has pleaded guilty to "forcibly touching and sexually abusing" a 52 year-old woman, and will resign from the City Council, according to the Queens District Attorney. Mr. Gallagher will also undergo treatment for alcohol abuse.

"With today's guilty plea justice has been served," the Queens District Attorney, Richard Brown, said in a statement. "His behavior constituted not only a serious violation of law, but a breach of the trust that we have placed in, and have a right to expect of, our elected public officials."

According to the DA's office, Mr. Gallagher stated today:

"On Sunday, July 8, 2007, while I was intoxicated, I intentionally and forcibly touched intimate parts of the complainant and subjected her to sexual contact without her consent. My conduct was wrong and I apologize to the complainant. I intend to continue treatment for my alcohol abuse and also announce my resignation as a member of the New York City Council, effective close of business on Friday, April 18, 2008."

Under state election law, the Mayor will have to call a special election in the coming weeks to replace Mr. Gallagher, who is one of just three Republicans in the City Council.