Wasco Mayor Alex Garcia has resigned from his position after allegations surfaced that he attempted to meet with a minor for sex.
Garcia sent out a statement on Thursday to Wasco residents announcing his resignation.
The backstory: Last week a video and post circulated on social media claiming that Garcia thought he was meeting with a 15-year-old boy for sex.
- Instead, Garcia appeared in the video with two adult males who were questioning his intentions.
- The video shows Garcia being assaulted by one of the men, while the post claimed the men posed as minors in what was effectively an unofficial sting operation.
- The Bakersfield Police Department said it is investigating the incident, and the Kern County Democratic Party called for Garcia to resign.
What he’s saying: Garcia released the following statement on Wednesday:
- “As I have been healing following my recent assault, I am now finally able to speak with you to announce, with a heavy heart and profound regret, my resignation as Mayor and Council Member of the City of Wasco.
- “As many of you are aware, there is a situation that requires my personal and full attention. I want to assure you that the accusations made against me are mischaracterized and inaccurate and certainly do not reflect who I am or what I stand for. However, due to the controversy surrounding these allegations, I am left with no choice but to resign for the overall health and success of our great City to ensure that you can continue moving projects along and making positive changes with no distractions. I am thankful for all those who have stood by me and sent supportive messages during this time, as I have healed from my injuries and processed this difficult decision.
- “I have had the pleasure of serving as your Mayor for the better part of the past decade and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I thank you immensely for the privilege of servicing this wonderful community and I am deeply sorry that my term is ending under these circumstances. I am looking forward to witnessing the future of Wasco and all the new Council will have to offer, and I will continue to root for and support this city and its amazing citizens.”
