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How House of Delegates would expel Joe Morrissey

Posted at 5:34 PM, Dec 15, 2014
and last updated 2014-12-15 19:36:31-05

RICHMOND, Va.-- State Delegate Joe Morrissey went from his jail cell to his General Assembly Office on work release Monday, despite calls for his resignation.

Friday Morrissey was convicted on a misdemeanor charge stemming from his relationship with a 17-year-old girl.

"I've got some constituents that need some matters taken care of," Morrissey said from outside his office. "I'll make my decision on what to do certainly by the end of the week."

So far Morrissey has resisted calls for his resignation, calls that came after his Alford Plea agreement was made public.

An Alford Plea means he does not admit guilt but acknowledges there is sufficient evidence.

Some of the alleged texts include Morrissey calling the 17 year old "My little coed" and "My baby" as well as bragging about having sex with her in his office.

The teen, now 18,  is accused of calling Morrissey her "sugar daddy" in a text message.

If Morrissey doesn't resign, the House of Delegates could censure or even expel Morrissey.

Morrissey's law partner Paul Goldman was at the Capitol Monday, researching the history of impeachment proceedings. Goldman said no member has ever been expelled for a misdemeanor charge.

"No one ever in the history of Virginia," Goldman said.

To expel a member, according to Goldman, would take a two-thirds vote in the House.

Thus far many politicians are reluctant to talk publicly about any possible impeachment, instead hoping the calls for his resignation will be sufficient.