Republican State Senator Ralph Shortey of Oklahoma City has resigned his seat in the Senate effective immediately. In his resignation letter he says it has been an honor to serve his constituents. "I recognize the need for the business of the Senate to proceed without distraction for the remainder of the legislative session," he said. Senate President Pro Tem Mike Schulz says Shortey's resignation has been accepted.
Shortey has been charged with three felonies for allegedly soliciting and engaging in sex with a 17-year-old boy. "I ask respect for the privacy of my family-my wife and four daughters-as I defend myself of these charges," he says.