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Morrissey to announce ‘next move’ on Sunday

Posted at 10:58 PM, Dec 13, 2014
and last updated 2014-12-14 14:42:13-05

RICHMOND, Va. -- One day after Virginia Delegate Joe Morrissey (D - Henrico) was sentenced to six months in jail, the lawmaker was out on work release.

"There is a full story that will come out," Morrissey said from his office at the Virginia General Assembly. "I don't say things lightly, I mean exactly what I say."

Morrissey entered an Alford plea Friday in connection to charges that he had an inappropriate relationship with a 17-year-old staff member.

The Governor and lawmakers from both parties have since called for his resignation.

"I've always been able to focus on the job ahead," Morrissey in response to criticism he would be too distracted to properly serve his constituents during his days at the General Assembly, while serving his jail sentence at night.

"He should immediately resign, and we are actively exploring all available options including removal if he does not," House Minority Leader David Toscano, a Democrat, said in statement.

"Each day Morrissey fails to resign is a disgrace to not only himself, but the Commonwealth of Virginia," Republican Party Chairman Pat Mullins said in a statement.

"I respect their opinion, I've asked my law partner and former Democratic Chairman Paul Goldman to do some research and he's going to do that and get back with me," Morrissey said.

As for if he will resign, Morrissey told CBS 6 Saturday night that the decision has not been made.

Morrissey's camp said the delegate would announce his "next move" Sunday morning at New Kingdom Christian Ministry.