Hartford mayor to submit resignation on Friday

[The Northerner]

HARTFORD, Conn. — The mayor said on Tuesday that he will submit his resignation on Friday, a week after he was convicted on five corruption charges, and would stay in office long enough to ensure an easy transition.

Mayor Eddie Perez had said last week after being convicted of extortion, accepting a bribe and other counts that he would step down. He announced on Tuesday that his resignation will take effect when he and City Council agree on a date "to allow for a smooth transition."

"It is time to move the city forward," he said in a statement. "I am truly sorry for the mistakes I have made that have harmed the city that I love."

Councilman Matthew D. Ritter said he expects Perez's resignation will take effect next week, allowing the acting mayor-in-waiting to shut his law firm and get ready to take over.

If Perez tries to delay his resignation, the council can remove him, but that process takes at least one month, Ritter said. He does not believe it will be necessary.

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